Tennessee State Parks Deputy Commissioner Brock Hill and other Parks staff were honored with the 2016 Excellence In Preservation Leadership Award during an annual historical preservation conference on March 16.
The award was presented by the Tennessee Preservation Trust, the only statewide nonprofit organization promoting the preservation of Tennessee’s historic resources, at a joint conference in partnership with the Tennessee Association of Museums and the Society of Tennessee Archivists.
The award recognizes Tennessee State Parks’ protection and renovation of the following historic Civilian Conservation Corps structures: the bathhouse at Cumberland Mountain State Park; cabins and the Tea Room at Norris Dam State Park; upcoming renovation of cabins at Chickasaw and Pickett State Parks; and the preservation and reuse of the historic cotton mill at Rock Island State Park.
“This award is greatly appreciated and represents the collaborative efforts of many bright and creative persons within Tennessee State Parks who express their passion for preservation and restoration of our state’s cultural assets on a daily basis,” said Hill.
Tennessee State Park Manager Eric Hughey also took home an award for his work at Fort Loudoun State Historic Park’s museum, and Old Stone Fort State Park Ranger Josh Waggener was honored with the Young Professional Award.
Along with protecting natural resources within parks, Tennessee State Parks, a division of the Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), is committed to conserving and protecting cultural and historic resources. From archaeologically significant locations to historic structures and places, TDEC protects and interprets a rich tapestry of authentic Tennessee stories and sites.
“From guided hikes around Native American historical sites to battle reenactments of the French and Indian War, Tennessee State Parks invites visitors to see the history of our state first-hand in an interactive and exciting way,” said Jeff Wells, Tennessee State Parks Director of Interpretation. “Every summer we designate roughly 50 participants to act as Seasonal Interpretive Recreators at our 56 parks to ensure that guests get the most out of every visit.”
For more information on Tennessee State Parks, visit www.tnstateparks.com.
