June 08, 2011
The Ellicott City Restoration Foundation has again sponsored its annual photo contest in the historic district. Entrants are on display at the Howard County Historical Society Museum for the next two months. Call 410-750-0370 for hours.
The Foundation also announced their choice for historic district person of the year, Joetta Cramm. She has been a recognized authority on local history for many years and is a familiar figure leading walking tours through town. Her classes at Howard Community College were essential for getting to know the history of the area. She has written several valuable books, including a pictorial history of Howard County and a walking tour of Ellicott City. This distinction is well deserved.
By the way, I was pleased to see so many people taking advantage of the new antiques appraisal event sponsored by the Historical Society recently. It was very well managed and since it was held at St. John's Episcopal Church, it was easy for people to bring in even large, unwieldy furniture. Plan on attending next year to see what your treasures are worth. Even if you don't have any treasures, come to see the books and antiques on sale, and stay for lunch or a snack.
The Civil War, 150 years later
In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, the B&O Railroad Museum, Ellicott City Station, is featuring a special exhibit called "The War Came by Train." This living history exhibit studies the effects of the railroad during the Civil War on small town life, residents and soldiers who came through town. The exhibit is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 410-461-1945.
Art exhibit
The Howard County Council for the Arts is featuring a 'Resident Visual Arts Exhibit', highlighting the works of 14 resident artists, working in a variety of medial and styles. The exhibit is open through June 20 with a gallery reception June 16 at 6 p.m.
Shakespeare
Shakespeare in the Ruins continues at the Patapsco Female Institute through July 24. Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m. The weekend of June 17-19 has been named Faerie Weekend, with special events planned. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Faerie costume. For ticket information, go to http://www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com.
Ghost tours
This is a great time of year to check out the ghost tours sponsored by the Howard County Tourism Council. The temperatures have usually cooled down by the start of the tours at 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Call 410-313-1900 for reservations.
Take a hike
If you would rather do your touring during the day, a historic hike through town will be offered Saturday, June 11 from 2 to 3 p.m. For information, go to http://www.howardcountymd.gov/HCT/HCT_HistoricWalkTours.htm.
Farmers' market
On Sunday, June 12, is second Sunday market time in Ellicott City. The market is held in the area behind Tonge Row, next to the parking lot behind the former post office, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. We're getting into good growing season now, so I'm excited about the possibilities that will be on offer. Of course everything goes better with Nathan's bread, and there are so many varieties to choose from. See you there. While you are there, check out the new Tonge Row sign that was just installed. It's very nice.
Father's Day
Happy Father's Day to my husband,Tom, and to all the dads out there. Instead of sitting back and watching dad grill this year, why not join him in one of the activities mentioned in this column. Dad would surely love a visit to the Railroad Station Museum, or tickets to Shakespeare, or one of the interesting walking tours. Make this year special for him — and for you!
