The above photo was the cover photo for "Phoenix Magazine" Spring 2010 publication. "Phoenix Magazine" is published by Preservation Maryland as their report to the community on the status of historic building preservation in Maryland.
The Town Council of Centreville was approached by Queen Anne's County Historical Society in 2009 after the owner of the 1746 farmhouse announced to them that he would donate the structure to the Society. The town worked with the owner, the Historical Society and the town Planning Commission to annex the property into town limits. The property was then deeded by the owner to the Historical Society and deed protected to preserve the historic structure. Since then, the Historical Society has sold the property to a professional preservationist who has recently replaced the leaking roof, and who is beginning the restoration to the exterior and interior of the structure. The annexation of this property, and the subsequent preservation efforts, is a shining example of non profits working with local governments and private landowners to preserve our historic heritage.
From the Phoenix Magazine: "Pictured (left to right) at Providence Farm are Marie Malaro, president of the Queen Anne's County Historical Society and board member Rebecca Marquardt. Joining them are Centreville Town Manager Bob McGrory and Councilman Tim McCluskey. The society received title to the 1746 building (see brickwork date in gable end) and surrounding six acres in December 2009. Stabilization funding for the roof and foundation has been secured from the Bartus Trew Providence Fund of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Additional funding has been allocated by the Maryland Historical Trust and will be available following the execution and recording of a perpetual easement on the property. A buyer has been identified by the society who is expected to ensure the restoration and reuse of the property. Providence was chosen for the 2010 Endangered Marylad list when it was under previous ownership, abandoned for more than 30 years.
Some facts about the Providence Farmhouse (AKA Mary Brown Farm)
The house on Providence Farm was built in 1746 by a local miller and features some of the finest woodwork to survive from the era. The land is protected under existing land use plans from further development. The farm has been abandoned since the 1970's and has been facing increasing damage.
For a pdf version of the entire magazine, click here:
PRESERVATION MARYLAND SPRING 2010 (1mb file)
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