Preservation of historical sites

[L Verge]

Agreed, Joe. The original "restoration" was done in the mid-1970s so that it could be considered part of the Bicentennial celebration in 1976. That was when all of the 19th-century appendages that Booth would have seen were removed so that only the 18th-century main block still stands. Over the years, however, tenants have done their share of damage.

I was told by the county several years ago that most of the land had been sold to a developer, but that the house and a small amount of acreage would be preserved. I think the original development plans have gone belly-up, and the house has been sitting vacant for several years now. It was originally owned by one of George Washington's doctors (maybe the one who owned the leeches?), so there is more than just Civil War history there.

Gene - as far as my leading a media blitz to save it: Joe calls me a lightning rod because I manage to irritate the types of people who come back for revenge. Therefore, I will pass on the assignment. It really should come from the historical community and government in Charles County, too. I am a resident of Prince George's.