On Saturday evening, July 18, more than 80 Oxford Museum members gathered despite a torrential downpour to recognize and celebrate this year’s recipients of the Douglas Hanks Jr. Preservation Award.

Established in 2006 by the Museum and Doug’s widow, Xan, the award honors Douglas Hanks Jr., one of the town’s most energetic lifelong supporters until his death in 2003. It recognizes extraordinary efforts by individuals or organizations to preserve the unique history of Oxford and the surrounding area through restoration and renovation projects, outstanding preservation service, stewardship, or lifetime contribution. Nominations are submitted by the public and evaluated by a Museum committee.

2026 Recipients

The first award was presented to Peter Linkins and Barbara Jean Meade, who purchased an 1890s rather derelict house within the Oxford Historic District, elevated it, turned it 90 degrees, and moved it to a new foundation. They completed a sensitive, period-correct and significant restoration using many materials from the original structure. The completed home is now a welcome and striking addition to Oxford’s streetscape.

The second award was presented to Cathy Schmidt of Trappe. Originally from Oxford and raised there, Schmidt has dedicated herself to keeping Oxford’s history alive through the written word. She publishes an Attraction magazine, drawing from the personal journals of her relative, Sara Benson, wife of former ferry owner Bill Benson. Her articles paint a vivid picture of life in Oxford from the 1950s through the 1970s, with stories of the ferry, watermen, and the rhythms of community that define Oxford and the Eastern Shore. Her writing reaches across Talbot County, helping ensure that memories, people, and a way of life are not lost.

Congratulations to this year’s awardees, who have joined 20 years of distinguished history lovers and preservationists honored through the Douglas Hanks Jr. Preservation Award.