On Thursday, May 25, at Piscataway Park in Accokeek, MD, the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area Launch took place. Featuring a keynote speech from Governor Wes Moore, this event celebrated the Southern Maryland communities residing in Prince George’s, Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s counties. This event brought The new federal designation spotlights the area’s American Indian legacy, natural splendor and cultural and historic significance, and eases the way for visitors to tour and learn more about Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties and the small slice of Prince George’s County that’s also considered part of Southern Maryland. It’s the 62nd national heritage area in the U.S.
The Baynet‘s article “Maryland Leaders Launch Southern Maryland National Heritage Area” revealed the significance of this event with a quote from Destination Southern Maryland Executive Director Lucille Walker. Lucille stated “this unique and exciting designation bridges communities, builds partnerships, and shares stories of resilience that span thousands of years.” Read more on The Baynet’s website.
The Southern Maryland Chronicle‘s article “Destination Southern Maryland Celebrates National Heritage Area Designation, Boosting Economic Benefits” added that this designation will also “raise the region’s profile and bring significant economic, environmental, and cultural benefits” to Southern Maryland. Read more on The Southern Maryland Chronicle’s website.
“The new federal designation spotlights the area’s American Indian legacy, natural splendor and cultural and historic significance, and eases the way for visitors to tour and learn more about Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties and the small slice of Prince George’s County that’s also considered part of Southern Maryland,” added Maryland Matters in their article “Emotional ceremony celebrates newest national heritage area in Md.” Read more on Maryland Matters’ website.
—
Destination Southern Maryland is the public face of the Southern Maryland Heritage Area. This state based heritage area is one of the 13 Heritage Areas in Maryland. This organization represents Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties. As a newly designated National Heritage Area, the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area will represent Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s and southern Prince George’s counties with a mission to enhance the region through innovative heritage tourism experiences, comprehensive cultural and natural resource conservation, and excellence in educational opportunities. To learn more about Destination Southern Maryland, visit our website.
