Dendrochronology in the U.S. and Abroad by Michael Worthington

Dendrochronology utilizes the technique known as tree-ring dating to date timbers from historic structures. This process requires a broad understanding of diverse principles from the impact of climate on trees’ annual growth rings to the ability to track a building’s architectural development. This work is critical to our understanding of historic buildings, as dendrochronology frequently results in a realignment of construction dates.

In the Midst of These Plains: Charles County’s Historic Buildings and Landscapesby Nicole A. Diehlmann and Cathy Hardy Thompson

A major benchmark in a county’s architectural survey efforts is the publication of a comprehensive book synthesizing decades of completed fieldwork and research. Co-authors Nicole A. Diehlmann and Cathy Hardy Thompson have recently published such a culmination of research on the historic buildings and landscapes in Charles County, tracking the county’s development through the built environments of agriculture, naval proving grounds, and casinos, to name a few. The book, In the Midst of These Plains: Charles County Buildings and Landscapes, is available for purchase from MHT Press.

Inscribing Significance: Documenting & Interpreting Historic Graffiti in Maryland by Michael J. Emmons, Jr.

A wide array of historic graffiti and vernacular inscriptions can be found on the old surfaces of Maryland's historic buildings, but they are sometimes overlooked and often left undocumented. This presentation highlights several examples of historic graffiti in Maryland, exploring their historical significance and interpretation potential.