Frederick County Landmarks Foundation is one of the county’s quiet powerhouses—rooted in trust, fueled by volunteers, and dedicated to “saving our history for Frederick County’s future.” From the iconic Schifferstadt Architectural Museum to the Beatty-Cramer House and the restored 1802 Zion Church, the organization safeguards irreplaceable landmarks that tell our community’s story.
But preservation is more than keeping old buildings standing—it’s about keeping history alive for future generations. That’s where the Landmark Foundation’s partnership with the Community Foundation makes a lasting difference. Through The Converse Family Endowment Fund, the Converse Grant Program helps homeowners in the historic district repair and restore their properties while honoring original craftsmanship and materials.
Over a number of years, Erik Anderson, a first-time homeowner in downtown Frederick, received several Converse Grants that helped to restore historic windows, doors, and masonry. “Without the Landmark Grant, the structure would not have been repaired in a timely way, risking further damage,” Anderson says.
Every plaque awarded to a century-old property, every festival celebrating heritage, every preserved structure is a reminder that FCLF’s work strengthens community identity and pride. “We are grateful to the Converse Family for seeing the need to provide preservation assistance and also to our hundreds of volunteer and donors over our 50-year history,” says Jennie Russell, Frederick County Landmarks Foundation Board President.
With deep roots in trust and a strong partnership with the Community Foundation, Frederick County Landmarks Foundation is ensuring the past has a vibrant place in our future.
In FY25 we distributed grants from five funds to Frederick County Landmarks Foundation totaling more than $27,000.
- The Converse Family Endowment Fund
- The Friends of Schifferstadt Fund
- The Frederick County Landmarks Foundation Fund
- The Derr Fund
- The Beatty Cramer House Endowment Fund
This article was featured in the Community Foundation’s fiscal year 2025 Annual Report.