Frederick to Uncover Local History at 7th Annual Digging Local Event

The City of Frederick’s Historic Preservation Commission, in collaboration with Plamondon Hospitality Partners and the Maryland Room at the C. Burr Artz Library, is set to host the seventh annual “Digging Local” event. This special program, designed to coincide with Maryland Archeology Month, will provide residents with a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich archeological past and ongoing preservation efforts. The event is scheduled for April 13, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and will be held in the Community Room of the C. Burr Artz Library, located at 110 E. Patrick Street in Frederick, Maryland.

“Digging Local” will grant the public exclusive insights into recent archeological investigations within the city. This year’s event will specifically focus on research conducted at the site of the future Downtown Frederick Hotel and Conference Center, an area historically known as the location of the Birely Tannery. Additionally, the program will highlight the critical work undertaken by The Archaeological Conservancy to preserve significant historical sites.

Attendees can anticipate presentations from leading experts in the field. Sean Coughlin, an Archeological Project Manager with R. Christopher Goodwin & Associates, is slated to discuss the current archeological activities at the Downtown Frederick Hotel and Conference Center site. His presentation is expected to cover the history of excavations at the former Birely Tannery, tracing the site’s transformation over time, and examining historical maps to shed light on significant findings from ongoing research.

Further enriching the evening’s agenda, Kelley Berliner, Eastern Regional Director of The Archaeological Conservancy, will detail her organization’s 45-year commitment to safeguarding archeological sites across the nation. The Conservancy’s preservation strategies include acquiring land or easements to protect historically important locations, maintaining research preserves for professional archeologists and educational purposes, and ensuring the protection of a wide spectrum of sites, from ancient Paleoindian settlements to more recent industrial complexes.

This event offers a valuable chance for Frederick residents to deepen their understanding of the region’s archeological heritage and learn about the dedicated efforts involved in protecting these invaluable historical resources. Light refreshments will be available, courtesy of Plamondon Hospitality Partners. For those requiring special accommodations or seeking additional information, Joshua Masser, Historic Preservation Planner, can be reached at 301-600-6242.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from The City of Frederick’s Historic Preservation Commission.

---