In the News: "Heart of Civil War area highlights $1.2 million impact, seeks city partnership" in LocalNews1

Representatives of the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area urged the Hagerstown City Council on Aug. 19 to renew a $10,000 funding commitment for fiscal year 2026, citing millions of dollars in returns to the community through grants, tourism and preservation efforts. The presentation, delivered by Elizabeth Scott Shado, executive director, and Al Martin, treasurer, outlined the economic and cultural impact of the nonprofit, which was certified as a Maryland heritage area in 2006. Since then, Hagerstown projects have secured nearly $1.2 million in Maryland Heritage Areas Authority grant awards, all requiring matching funds that attracted additional local, state, and federal investment.