For Immediate Release:
June 1, 2020

Historical Commission presents 
2020 Preservation Awards
Fifth-grade history essay contest winners honored for creative efforts

FREEHOLD, NJ – The Monmouth County Historical Commission recently 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 or organizations who have taken on restoration and preservation projects for historic buildings in Monmouth County.

“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 Monmouth County to enjoy.”

The Presbyterian Church of Shrewsbury has been recognized for their considerate restoration of the Manse, the home of the Church's pastors. Although it 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 ten classes that graduated from the high school in the 1940's, who generously supported this effort.

The Historical Commission is proud to announce the 2020 Fifth-Grade History Essay Contest Award winners. Awarded first place is 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, is presented second place for his essay, “My visit to the National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey.” Third place is awarded to Joey Longo from 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,” said Freeholder Burry. “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.”

For more information about the Preservation Awards Program, History Essay Contest for Fifth-Graders and the Monmouth County Historical Commission, go to www.visitmonmouth.com or call John Fabiano, Executive Director, at 732-431-7460 ext. 7413.

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