PORT TOWNSEND — The man who kept on top of three major building projects and the woman who took on the top job of the Victorian Festival were named 2003 Volunteers of the Year by the Jefferson County Historical Society on Sunday.
Presented at the Founders Day ceremonies at the Rose Theatre, the awards went to Chuck Wiggins and Pat Durbin.
Wiggins’ year as facilities chairman covered the restoration of the Fire Bell Tower, the acquisition of a new research library, and the planning stages of the City Hall restoration, Bill Tennent, museum director, said.
Durbin assumed leadership of the Victorian Festival on behalf of the historical society.
“We lost a board secretary but gained a wonderful festival,” Tennent said.
Steve Levin and Pete Raab presented historic preservation awards, including the Mary Johnson Award, to the city of Port Townsend and the historical society for the restoration of the Fire Bell Tower.
“This award is for all of us,” Mayor Catharine Robinson said, thanking Ken Clow, public works director, David Timmons, city manager, and the city staff for their work.
Certificates of appreciation
Receiving certificates of appreciation were Bob and Linda Maguire for stewardship of the Frank Bartlett House, Joseph and Donna Benson for stewardship of their Benton Street house, Trinity United Methodist Church and the Hastings Estate Co. for extensive foundation repairs, and the MV Lotus Foundation for restoration of a 1909 houseboat.
The Von Lossow family was recognized for creative reuse of the wheelhouse of the SS Indianapolis as a living structure.
Tennent reported that that 2003 was an “up” year for the Jefferson County Historical Museum, with admissions, volunteer hours, student visits and membership revenue exceeding those of past years.
He credited the historical society’s volunteers and staff for the success of the year, and acknowledged financial support from the city, Jefferson County and individuals.
Anonymous tribute
“I guess I should thank Mr. Anonymous for donating the money to buy the new copier,” Tennent said.
“Mr., Ms. or Mrs. Anonymous also donated $200,000 to purchase the new research center, which was paid off within a year.”
Keynote speaker for Founders Day was Erik Larson, author of The Devil in White City.
Jim Pivarnik provided organ music before the program, which was followed by a reception at the James House.