Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
Fernandina Beach Mayor Ed Boner proclaimed May 2014 as “National Preservation Month” during the May 6, 2014 Regular meeting of the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC). He delivered the proclamation to Phyllis Davis, Executive Director of the Amelia Island Museum of History; Adam Kaufman, President of the Amelia Island Fernandina Restoration Foundation; and Adrienne Burke, Director of the city’s Community Development Department who also staffs the city’s Historic District Council. The proclamation called attention to the importance of historic preservation in “managing growth and development, revitalizing neighborhoods, contributing to the economy, fostering local pride and maintaining community character while enhancing livability.”
Boner called upon Museum Director Phyllis Davis and Restoration Foundation President Adam Kaufman to present the 2014 Historic Preservation Awards. Davis explained that nominations are solicited every two years in a variety of categories relating to historic preservation. The program is a joint partnership of the Museum, the Restoration Foundation and the City of Fernandina Beach. In this third awards cycle, many nominations were submitted. The judges included Hershel Shepard, noted University of Florida professor in the field of historic preservation; Carmen Godwin, former Amelia Island Museum director and current executive director of Riverside Avondale Preservation, Inc.; and Susan Steger, former Fernandina Beach mayor-commissioner with a long involvement in local historic preservation.
Winning first place this year was Ernie Saltmarsh, who won previously for his work on the Florida House Inn. He was there to accept the award as was Historic District homeowner Foye Waldrip, whose new home was recognized in first place for outstanding new construction.
Local Architect John Cotner was recognized as this year’s Preservation Champion for his many years of work on projects in the city’s Historic District. In accepting his award, Cotner reminded the presenters that he has been doing this work for 34 years, not a mere 25. His projects have included many residential buildings. Additionally he has contributed to the education of the community on the importance of historic preservation through many lectures and talks.
Many other projects were deemed worthy of recognition. Three projects were accorded honorable mention:
And several additional projects received Certificates of Appreciation:
Many award winners were in attendance to accept plaques, certificates and/or signs to be placed outside the winning projects. Historic Preservation Awards will be given again in 2016. Any project completed within the previous 5 years will be eligible for consideration.