State: The Maryland Historical Trust

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), Maryland Department of Planning, maintains the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties, a database of information on districts, buildings and archaeological sites throughout the state. The inventory is for documentation purposes and does not convey protection. There are 65 entries for

Accokeek. Many were completed decades ago and the amount of information varies. MHT’s Preserve Maryland II, The Statewide Preservation Plan 2019-2023, includes objectives specific to each region of the state. (Prince George’s County is included in the Southern Maryland region.) Goals and objectives relevant to Accokeek’s heritage tourism efforts include:

G0als Objectives Strategies

Connect with Broader Audiences

Improve the Framework of Preservation

Expand and Update Documentation

Build Capacity and Strengthen Networks

Enhance opportunities for residents, particularly youth, to experience and learn local heritage

Expand outreach and training programs to increase participation in and knowledge of preservation

Research and document historic properties and cultural sites significant to recreational heritage and agricultural heritage

Ensure inclusion of Native American interests in networks and preservation strategies

Enhance the ability of historic preservation to promote public health and education

Collaborate Toward Shared Objectives

Identify and pursue opportunities to protect and enhance the rural character of the region

ACTION STEP D2: Expand and Update

Develop oral history programs, utilizing young people, particularly related to African American heritage

Produce online interpretation and paddling maps to enhance the visitor experience

Increase outreach efforts for existing programs (e.g., tax credits, commission trainings)

Collaborate on documentation of waterfront communities

Collaborate to prioritize areas for research and seek funding for documentation

Promote the implementation of Through Piscataway Eyes

Collaborate on the development and implementation of nature-based recreational activities

Develop technical assistance for protecting and enhancing historic roads (e.g., case studies, guidance documents)

New research can provide opportunities for interpretation. Working with County and state historic preservation research and survey staff, identify documentation in the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties that needs updating or expansion, and undertake research for previously undocumented resources.

ACTION

Use the statewide preservation plan’s relevant goals, objectives and strategies to support action steps and secure funding for initiatives. Engage with MHT when the plan is updated.