The Monmouth County Historical Commission has announced the recipients of the county’s 2020 Historical Preservation Awards and the winners of the History Essay Contest for fifth-graders.
The awards are presented to individuals and/or organizations who have taken on restoration and preservation projects for historic buildings in Monmouth County, according to a press release.
“Preserving Monmouth County’s historical sites takes a lot of time, dedication, patience and money,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Monmouth County Historical Commission.
“I am genuinely appreciative to those who have committed themselves to help restore Monmouth County’s history for future residents of the county to enjoy,” she said.
The Presbyterian Church of Shrewsbury has been recognized for its considerate restoration of the Manse, the home of the church’s pastors, according to the press release.
Although the Manse suffered considerable damage, the congregation supported its improvement to 21st century standards, while retaining the appearance and architectural detail of the 19th century.
The recognition of the repurposed Jersey Shore Arts Center’s “Remember the Forties” room is in memory of Herbert G. Herbst.
An Ocean Grove resident, Herbst led the campaign to renovate the vacant former Neptune High School. The award is also dedicated to the 10 classes that graduated from the high school in the 1940s, who generously supported the effort, according to the press release.
The commission announced the 2020 fifth-grade history essay contest award winners.
Awarded first place was Samantha Hein from Newbury School, Howell, for her essay, “My Family’s History in Howell, N.J.”
Patrick Yurcisin from Saint Leo the Great, Lincroft, was presented second place for his essay, “My Visit to the National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey.”
Third place was awarded to Joey Longo from the Frank Antonides School, West Long Branch, for his essay, “A Descendant of the Mayflower.”
“As always, it is my sincerest honor to announce the winners for this history essay contest,” Burry said. “History, particularly in Monmouth County, is a passion of mine and these students wrote fascinating essays about their own wonderful impressions and feelings for history.”
