Preservation Bath Celebrates Local History and Preservation at Annual Lecture and Awards
A near-capacity audience gathered at the Herford Barn at the Old Dairy in Warm Springs for Preservation Bath's 2026 Annual Lecture and Awards, an afternoon celebrating the people, places, and stories that define Bath County's heritage.
The program featured presentations by architectural historian Debra McClane and historian and artist Laura Purvis, who shared discoveries from their research into the history of Bath County's communities. Their presentations explored the changing landscape of Warm Springs and West Warm Springs, including the development of the Warm Springs Hotel, the rebuilding of the village following the devastating 1901 fire, and the lives of the people who shaped these communities. The speakers also highlighted the importance of uncovering overlooked stories and preserving the distinctive character of Bath County's historic places.
The afternoon also recognized individuals and organizations whose commitment to preservation has made a lasting difference in the county.
This year marked the introduction of the McWilliams/Wildasin Preservation Awards, named in honor of Janice McWilliams and Michael Wildasin, whose early advocacy, including the effort to save the historic Warm Springs Pools bathhouses, helped establish Preservation Bath and advance the preservation movement in Bath County.
The 2026 Activist Preservation Award was presented posthumously in honor of Michael Wildasin, recognizing his leadership, advocacy, and enduring contributions to historic preservation in Bath County. His commitment to protecting the county's historic places and encouraging community involvement helped establish a foundation for the preservation efforts that continue today.
The 2026 Legacy Preservation Award was presented to Timmy and Fern Plecker of River Uplands Farm, recognizing their longstanding commitment to preservation and stewardship of the county's agricultural and cultural heritage.
The Heritage Preservation Award honored Allegheny Mountain Radio, celebrating 45 years of service to the region and its communities. General Manager Danny Cardwell accepted the award on behalf of the station and its staff.
Preservation Bath President Peter Fowler welcomed attendees and reflected on the organization's growing efforts to document, protect, and celebrate the county's historic villages, cultural landscapes, and traditions. The program also highlighted current initiatives, including the Windows of Bath County poster and this year’s Bath County Ghost Walk.
The afternoon underscored a central theme of Preservation Bath's mission: preservation is not simply about protecting historic buildings, but about sustaining the places, stories, landscapes, and cultural connections that give Bath County its distinctive character.
