On November 18, Preservation Durham recognized several individuals and organizations for their commitment to preserving our community’s history. The Museum was deeply honored to be acknowledged alongside the Friends of Geer Cemetery for our collaboration on the exhibit Unearthing Stories of Geer Cemetery. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help share the powerful history of Geer Cemetery and to highlight the years of dedicated work carried out by the Friends of Geer Cemetery.

It was gratifying to see so many friends and collaborators in attendance that evening — it was a full house at ReCity!  And what a wonderful opportunity to celebrate folks who have been a part of the Museum of Durham History throughout the years as they were also recognized for their preservation work, including former MoDH Board member Bob Chapman (for his work on the Central Park School for Children/North Durham Graded School); MoDH Story Squad and History Advisory Committee member John Schelp (@postcardsfromdurham); Durham/NCCU Coordinator of University Archives Andre’ Vann; MoDH exhibit site partner Hayti Heritage Center, and other fellow history-related awardees.

MoDH Executive Director Patrick Mucklow (left) with John Schelp

The 2025 Preservation Durham Award of Merit meant a lot to our team, especially knowing it came in a year with a record number of nominations. The Geer Cemetery exhibit, which was featured at the Museum from April to October 2025, was  a true labor of love, bringing forward the stories, archaeology, and history behind one of Durham’s oldest Black cemeteries. We’re incredibly proud of the work our staff and community partners put into making these stories visible. It’s an honor to see that effort resonate across Durham.

One final shout-out to Friends of Geer Cemetery for their passion and dedication—they’ve been inspiring collaborators every step of the way. Together, we’ve been able to shine a brighter light on the people and history held within Geer Cemetery, and we’re grateful to everyone who visited, shared stories, or supported the project. This award energizes us to keep creating exhibits that help Durham connect with its past in meaningful ways.

Thanks to Preservation Durham and our Museum family for celebrating with us!