Each week during National Preservation Month, Washington’s Historic Preservation Commission and Scott Campbell, an agent with Century 21 The Realty Group, chose a residential or commercial property in Washington’s historic districts that reflects the on-going maintenance efforts, a preservation initiative, rehabilitation and restoration, and the good neighbor award which will reflect compatibility and harmony with existing neighbors.

This week, the “Preservation Initiative” was presented to Washington Area Historic Foundation and the Washington Garden Club for their volunteer restoration of Harding Square.

Harding Square, named for prominent local personality Edmund Harding, is located on Stewart Parkway between Market Street and Water Street. Recently the square was revitalized by members of the Washington Garden Club and the Washington Area Historic Foundation with support from the Washington City Council.

During the renovation, the overgrown Arborvitae tree was removed, along with other roots and stumps from overgrown plantings. Damaged bricks and sidewalk sections were repaired or replaced and city Park Maintenance crews pruned the Crepe Myrtle trees that outline the square.

The Washington Garden Club assisted in purchasing and planting new Knockout Roses and Liriope in the reconditioned center area.

An ornamental cast bench donated by the Foundation has been installed at the entrance, providing a resting place with a wonderful Pamlico River view.

Local resident and Foundation member Don Stroud donated the graceful statue that adorns the center area, encircled by the Knockout Rose bushes.

Through their volunteer efforts, residents and visitors once again have a beautiful and inviting garden to enjoy while in historic downtown Washington.

Rena K. Terrell cups are dedicated to the memory of a charter member of the Washington Historic District Commission.

Mrs. Terrell was active in promoting historic preservation. She was a member of the Historic Preservation Foundation of North Carolina, the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the City’s official representative on the Board of Directors of the Historic Albemarle Tour.

The committee feels that it is most appropriate that these awards are made in Rena’s memory since she was devoted to preserving our historic resources and promoting our city.

Rena K. Terrell Cup recipients were also given the choice of a membership to Preservation North Carolina, an organization that promotes and protects the buildings and landscapes of our state’s diverse heritage, or a contribution to the landscaping stock in one of our public green spaces.

Additional contributions are sponsored by Scott Campbell, an agent with the Century 21 The Realty Group.

Washington Garden Club and Washington Area Historic Foundation join Betty Stewart of Stewart Jewelry and Ed and Shirley Stone of 513 East 2nd Street as recipients 2011 recipients of Rena K. Terrell award.