Old Saybrook’s First Church of Christ was the 2020 recipient of Old Saybrook Historical Society’s Award of Achievement in Historic Preservation. The award was presented on Oct. 11 at the Society’s annual meeting in its gardens.

The church was awarded for “its commitment to historic preservation with the outstanding stewardship of its historic church, its historical documents and artifacts, and the protection of the South Green as an historic site,” according to information provided by the society.

“Many projects, programs, and actions that made contributions to historic preservation in the town of Old Saybrook were reviewed,” said Wayne Harms, vice president of the society and chair of the Preservation Award Committee in his address at the award ceremony. “The First Church was selected for its longstanding leadership in historic preservation and stewardship of its facilities and items in its possession. We specifically note the recent outside restoration/preservation painting program completed by the church.”

The award recognizes “projects, programs, policies, or actions that make significant contributions to historic preservation in the town of Old Saybrook,” according to the society’s website. A plaque at Old Saybrook Town Hall lists each year’s recipient(s).

Conferred once a year, the Award of Achievement in Historic Preservation is announced at the society’s annual meeting. Any non-profit organization, government agency, business, or individual(s) is eligible, according to information on the society’s website.

“Giving this award is one of the Society’s most meaningful programs, as we recognize the outstanding commitment, dedication, generosity, and effort necessary to preserve and protect the rich history of our town,” said Old Saybrook Historical Society President Marie McFarlin.

More information about the society and the award may be found at saybrookhistory.org.