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Maryland Historical Trust

Maryland Preservation Awards: Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area for the US 250th GeoTour

May 20th, 2026 11:30 am

This award for Excellence in Public Programming and Exhibits will be presented to Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area for their US 250th GeoTour.

Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area has pioneered a sophisticated model for heritage tourism through its US 250th GeoTour. Launched in September 2025 as a signature America 250 project, the initiative links over 20 historic sites across three counties via physical and virtual geocaches. By pairing digital navigation with immersive historical narratives, the GeoTour has attracted nearly 5,000 site visits and over 100 overnight stays in its inaugural months. This integration of technology and history successfully converts recreational travelers into dedicated advocates for the region’s diverse and storied past.