Washington County History & Landmarks Foundation

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Our Story

The Washington County History & Landmarks Foundation (WCH&LF) is a private, nonprofit educational organization that encourages the preservation of buildings, landmarks, and sites deemed representative of the culture, architecture, and history of Washington County, Pennsylvania. 

Incorporated in 1973, the WCH&LF has been instrumental in locating, identifying, and listing properties for its own landmark certification program as well as listing individual structures and districts on the National Register of Historic Places. Since its inception, the foundation has been successful in helping many historic building owners in the preservation of their structures. WCH&LF offices are located in the 1806 stone house, located at the entrance to Washington County Fairgrounds. The heirloom garden at its entrance is lovingly maintained by Washington County Master Gardeners. During the annual county fair, exhibits highlighting various aspects of county history are on full display for the public. 

Currently, WCH&LF is in its second year of highlighting historic cemeteries and burial grounds. Through this endeavor, we have increased membership participation with onsite tours and presentations. In partnering with a local Rotarian, we explored the little-known Morganza Cemetery for children, and with help from a long-time county staff member, we discovered many unknown aspects of the Washington County Potter's Field near the county fairgrounds.

Many non-members reached out to us with information about headstones located in farm fields and unique early burial sites such as the crypt at First Lutheran Church and the Hoge Memorial in the City of Washington. WCH&LF revived partnerships with several other historical organizations, such as Morris Township, Amwell Township, Peters Creek, A.D.White, and Jefferson College historical societies.

As an aging board, we are delighted to have acquired two young, tech-savvy individuals who are knowledgeable in our mission and goals with a true interest in history, especially as it pertains to our county and surroundings. There's so much more to explore, and History & Landmarks is moving forward. Always looking for new partners!

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