The first annual meeting of Preserving the Wildwoods: A Community Alliance (PTW) was held at the Wildwood Historical Museum on November 11th, 2022. There was a large turnout from the community, and attendees celebrated and learned about historic preservation in the Wildwoods.

PTW’s president Pary Tell provided a warm welcome. PTW board member and secretary Gail Cohen gave a presentation on how preservation is not just about buildings but also about preserving a community. Gail used many local examples found on the island and detailed what the organization has accomplished in one year. After previewing some of PTW’s 2023 goals, the meeting was opened to questions from the audience which led to discussions about preservation issues on the island and what steps are needed to move the Wildwoods forward without losing its history.

The annual meeting was also a time to celebrate local presentation heroes. PTW gave awards to Mike and Tina Stetter for their preservation of the original 1904 Neoclassical Revival style architecture of the J. Thompson Baker House, Wildwood; the Russom Family for their preservation of the original 1927 Mission style architecture of 104 Nashville Road, Wildwood Crest; and Tom Gerace for moving and saving the circa-1900 Queen Anne style building previously home to the Shamrock Beef & Ale, Wildwood.

In addition to providing refreshments, PTW also distributed newsletters, brochures, and copies of the Historic Houses of the Wildwoods coloring book to all guests. PTW is thankful for the great community response and interest in preservation. Stay tuned for more events open to the public in 2023.

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