Early History of Colonial Charlestown, Inc.

In the early 1970s, Charlestown’s rich colonial past inspired a grassroots effort to preserve and interpret the town’s historic character. This movement began on August 9, 1973, when Baltimore history enthusiast James C. Dugent presented a bold proposal to the Town Commissioners: transform Charlestown into a heritage attraction modeled after Colonial Williamsburg. After surveying towns across Maryland, Dugent identified Charlestown as uniquely suited for such an endeavor due to its surviving 18th-century architecture.

To pursue this vision, the town appointed Nelson H. McCall as Chairman of the newly formed Colonial Charlestown Commission on August 15, 1973. One week later, Elizabeth M. Henry, Jane D. Williams, John E. Gonce, Lyle W. Bott, and Mary P. Thurn joined the committee. Their early meetings were held in a small room of the Town House on Water Street.

Reviving a Colonial Tradition

As its first major undertaking, the Commission chose to recreate Charlestown’s original Fair of May 10, 1744. The modern fair was scheduled for May 18–19, 1974, coinciding with Cecil County’s 300th anniversary. The event exceeded all expectations—crowds filled the streets both days, and the Cecil Whig praised the fair as “a tough act to follow.”

Preservation Begins: The 107 House

A turning point came on March 7, 1975, when the town purchased the historic 107 House for $13,000. Community volunteers soon mobilized, clearing the property, removing deteriorated additions, and preparing the site for restoration.

On June 14, 1975, the organization formally became Colonial Charlestown, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation. The members of the original Commission transitioned into the corporation’s first Board of Directors, ensuring continuity of leadership.

Partnership with the Maryland Historical Trust

Colonial Charlestown, Inc. advanced its preservation mission through key partnerships with the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT):