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April 21, 2026 In News, Special Events, Waterfowl

 Waterfowl Festival Announces 2025 Award Recipients Honoring Exceptional Volunteer Service

Easton, Maryland – The Waterfowl Festival is proud to recognize its 2025 award recipients, celebrating a remarkable group of volunteers whose dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership embody the spirit of this cherished Eastern Shore tradition. These individuals have each made meaningful contributions that ensure the continued success of the Festival and its mission of conservation, education, and community engagement.

 

Nancy Espenhorst is recognized for her extraordinary, wide-ranging service to the Festival. From coordinating Dock Dogs and serving as Volunteer Chair to supporting office staff in the critical weeks leading up to the event, Nancy’s impact is felt year-round. During the Festival, she can be found staffing key venues such as Art in the Avalon and Art in the Pavilion, while also leading efforts as Decorations Chair—both in preparation and behind the scenes after the event concludes. Her commitment extends beyond the Festival through service to numerous community organizations, reflecting a deep and enduring dedication to the Eastern Shore.

 

Theresa Harrison is honored for her 37 years of steadfast volunteerism. A cornerstone of Art at the Armory since its inception in 2011, Theresa has reliably anchored multiple sales desk shifts each year. Known for her calm demeanor, good humor, and ability to expertly manage busy and complex sales operations, she brings confidence and consistency to one of the Festival’s most important touchpoints.

 

Sian Kelly has been a vibrant and engaged volunteer at Art at the Armory since 2015. Her enthusiasm and connection with both artists and patrons create a welcoming and energetic environment. Sian’s commitment extends beyond her own service, as she has inspired family members—including her daughters traveling from out of town and even internationally—to volunteer. Her passion for the Festival is further reflected in her support as an art collector.

 

Kathie Middleton is recognized for her unwavering dedication and positivity. Working tirelessly behind the scenes throughout the year, Kathie plays a vital role in organizing and preparing for the Festival. Her steady presence, strong work ethic, and uplifting attitude help guide the team through even the most demanding moments.

 

Tom Lane is celebrated for his essential contributions to the Festival’s operations. Responsible for designing and executing the layouts of all art venues, Tom’s work is foundational to the Festival experience. His year-round commitment and attention to detail ensure that each space comes together seamlessly, creating an environment where artists and visitors alike can fully engage.

 

Joshua Cherry is honored for his longstanding and spirited involvement as part of the Festival’s Information Guide program. Having grown up with the Festival, Joshua continues to bring energy, personality, and a welcoming presence to Easton’s streets each year. Known for encouraging others to participate, he represents the next generation of volunteers carrying forward the Festival’s traditions.

 

Betsy Griffin is also recognized for her valuable contributions and ongoing support of the Waterfowl Festival through her positive attitude, can-do team spirit, and a great love of community that spills over into her volunteer work.  Her team at APG media is also recognized for their extraordinary participation in the 2025 festival. 

 

“These award recipients represent the very best of what makes the Waterfowl Festival so special,” said Executive Director Deena Kilmon. “Their generosity of time, enthusiasm, and commitment to our mission ensure that we continue to inspire appreciation for wildlife, art, and the traditions of the Eastern Shore. We are deeply grateful for their service and proud to celebrate their impact.”

 

The Waterfowl Festival invites the community to join the flock and volunteer with us throughout the year! Each volunteer receives a free weekend pass for the 2026 festival. Student volunteers qualify for community service hours and can apply for festival scholarship for secondary education. For more info:  

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March 26, 2026 In Conservation Projects, Festival Highlights, News, Special Events, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Donates $5,000 to Talbot Retriever Club, Strengthening Shared Commitment to Conservation and Sporting Heritage

The Waterfowl Festival is proud to announce a $5,000 grant to the Talbot Retriever Club in support of its ongoing efforts to promote responsible sporting traditions, conservation, and community engagement across Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Funds from the Samuel H. Shriver, Jr. Sporting Heritage Endowment were used to fulfill this request.

 

This contribution reflects a longstanding relationship between the two organizations, both of which share a deep commitment to preserving the region’s rich waterfowling heritage and the natural environments that sustain it. The Talbot Retriever Club plays a vital role in training and showcasing skilled retrievers, advancing ethical hunting practices, and fostering appreciation for working dogs as essential partners in the field.

 

“For decades, the Talbot Retriever Club has worked with the festival to educate festival attendees by hosting retriever demonstrations downtown, showcasing the amazing bond between these highly-trained pups and their humans,” remarked festival Vice-President Charles Wrightson. “Consistenly their demos are noted as a favorite event attended by generations of families throughout the years. We are proud to support their efforts.”

Funds from the donation will help support the Club’s training programs, events, and outreach initiatives, which bring together sportsmen and women of all ages to learn, compete, and connect through a shared passion for retrievers and the outdoors. 

 

As the Waterfowl Festival continues its mission to inspire environmental stewardship through art, education, and community programming, partnerships like this remain essential in ensuring that the legacy of the Eastern Shore’s sporting culture endures for future generations.

 

Image: Waterfowl Festival presents $5K check to Talbot Retriever Club (pictured) Danny Callahan (Talbot Retriever Club Vice-President)( Phyliss McGinn and Butch Chambers (Talbot Retriever Club Board Members), Deena Kilmon, Waterfowl Festival Executive Director; Winston Chance (Talbot Retriever Club President), Candace Bartolowits (Talbot Retriever Club Treasurer)

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About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

 

About The Samuel H. Shriver Jr. Sporting Heritage Fund

The fund was established in the memory of long-time Festival supporter and volunteer, Samuel H. Shriver, Jr. The Fund was established by members of the Shriver family in honor of Mr. Shriver’s love of the annual Waterfowl Festival and its sporting heritage foundation.

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February 26, 2026 In Festival Highlights, News, Special Events

Waterfowl Festival Opens Applications for the William A. Perry Scholarship

Easton, Maryland — February 27, 2026 — The Waterfowl Festival is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the William A. Perry Scholarship. Each year, students from across the region who have generously volunteered their time with the Festival are invited to apply for academic support through the William A. Perry Scholarship Fund.

The scholarship recognizes the dedication and enthusiasm of the young volunteers who are essential to the enduring legacy of the Festival. Established in honor of Festival co-founder William A. Perry and his wife, Betty Perry, the fund reflects their longstanding commitment to community involvement and educational advancement.

The William A. Perry Scholarship Fund provides financial support to students pursuing postsecondary education, trade school certification, or graduate studies.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Applicants must be a high school senior or currently enrolled in an accredited college, trade school, or graduate program.
  • Applicants must have contributed a minimum of 10 hours of volunteer service to the Waterfowl Festival.
  • Volunteer service must have occurred within two years prior to submission of the scholarship application.

Completed applications must be submitted no later than April 15, 2026. Scholarship recipients will be notified of their acceptance no later than June 15, 2026.

The Waterfowl Festival proudly accepts volunteers year-round and encourages students interested in community service to get involved.

For additional information or questions regarding the scholarship application process, please contact Annie Miller at or call 410-822-4567.

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About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

Image courtesy Waterfowl Festival

2025 scholarship recipients pictured: Robert Norbury, Liam Swadley, Executive Director Deena Kilmon, Charlie Kaminskas, Billy Haufe

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December 17, 2025 In Artists, Festival Highlights, News, Special Events, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Announces 2025 Hall of Fame Members

Each year since 1992, the Waterfowl Festival Hall of Fame Awards have been given in recognition of the commitment and impact that individuals have made on the Festival and in turn our community. We proudly honor these people who have had a significant hand in shaping our event into one of the premiere wildlife and waterfowl art shows in the country. On November 13, 2025, three new honorees were inducted during the 54th Annual Premier Night ceremonies in the iconic Crystal Room at the Tidewater Inn. 

 

Hall of Fame members have offered at least 10 years of significant support as a community volunteer, Festival leader, collector, artist or innovator.  Over the years, these individuals have poured their heart and soul into our community and we are deeply grateful for their contributions. 


This year, we proudly honor Pat Crane, Judy Knight, and Ken Miller,  all of Talbot County, MD. 

 

For over 22 years, Pat Crane has been a dedicated volunteer, including 13 years on the Board of Directors. Pat has been a member of the Art Committee for over 20 years and the scholarship committee for 9 years. Year after year Pat has worked hard to ensure that the artists feel at home when they come to visit from all over the world. Pat has also supported the Festival through countless hours of administrative work and served as co-chair for Art at the Avalon for 22 years. We are deeply grateful for her commitment and enthusiasm to the Festival.

 

Judy Knight has volunteered with the Festival since 1914, delivering over 30 years of dedicated service. She served on the board for six years and was an active member of the scholarship committee for 2013-2020 as well as a volunteer for the Elks Gallery and a co-chair of the Crystal Room. Judy has been a co-chair and volunteer coordinator for Art at the Armory since its inception and has served on the Art Committtee since 2000, helping with decision-making, organization, and operations. Her leadership and unwavering commitment have been instrumental to the festival’s success. 

 

Ken Miller served as president of the Waterfowl Festival in 2022. He has been a dedicated volunteer for over a decade, contributing in many significant ways. The most outstanding contribution was throughout 2022 when he assumed many of the administrative duties of the festival while the organization searched for a new executive director. He was a member of both the Waterfowl Festival and Waterfowl Chesapeake boards; co-chair of Art at the Avalon exhibit, chair and member of the Scholarship Committee, and continues as a member of the Art and Conservation Committees. 

 

“Every year, it is a fantastic moment we share with the community when we recognize such extraordinary people that give so much to our town’s biggest event of the year,” said Executive Director, Deena Kilmon. “Pat, Judy, and Ken have worked tirelessly, side by side, to make our festival an outstanding event for our community. The scholarships to hundreds of students, the nurturing of hundreds of artists, and the support of conservation projects their work made possible will impact generations of Eastern Shore residents.”

The 55th annual Waterfowl Festival is planned for November 13-15,2026. For vendor or sponsor inquiries, please contact: . 

Image credit: Cal Jackson/Cal Jackson Photography

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About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

 

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

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October 8, 2025 In Festival Highlights, Promotional Partners, Special Events

Penwell African Safaris Showcases Adventures at the Waterfowl Festival

Penwell African Safaris Showcases Adventures at the Waterfowl Festival

Easton, MD — November 14–16, 2025 — Penwell African Safaris, a premier provider of luxury safari experiences, is excited to announce its participation in the Waterfowl Festival. Visitors are invited to stop by the Sportsman’s Pavilionto meet owners Kathleen (Kathy) Harvey and Tracey Seifert Kimball, and to learn more about once-in-a-lifetime African journeys.

As a special thank you to festival guests, Penwell African Safaris will host a daily drawing for a beautiful, handcrafted backpack made in London. Attendees can enter at the pavilion booth for a chance to win while discovering how Penwell curates extraordinary adventures across Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

“We love sharing the magic of Africa with travelers who are seeking something extraordinary,” said Kathleen Harvey, Partner and Co-Founder of Penwell African Safaris. “The Waterfowl Festival is the perfect place to connect with adventurers, sportsmen, and nature enthusiasts who share our passion for wildlife and conservation.”

Penwell African Safaris specializes in custom itineraries that balance luxury with authenticity, offering everything from classic Big Five safaris to walking tours, cultural village experiences, and hot-air balloon rides. With a focus on conservation and community support, every journey contributes to preserving Africa’s heritage for generations to come.

About Penwell African Safaris

Penwell African Safaris is dedicated to creating transformative travel experiences across Africa’s most breathtaking destinations. Owned and operated by Kathleen (Kathy) Harvey and Tracey Seifert Kimball, the company combines personalized service, luxury accommodations, and expert guiding with a strong commitment to conservation and local communities.

Join us at the Waterfowl Festival, November 14–16, 2025, at the Sportsman’s Pavilion, to plan your next adventure!

Media Contact:
Kathleen Harvey, Partner
Penwell African Safaris
📧 
📞 800-484-4552
🌐 www.penwellsafaris.com

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October 2, 2025 In Conservation Projects, Festival Highlights, News, Special Events, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival and 1623 Brewing Co. Unite in Support of Conservation


Delmarva Craft Distributing to bring “Goose Sweat Hazy IPA” to the Shore

Easton, MD – October 2, 2025- The Waterfowl Festival is thrilled to announce a special partnership with 1623 Brewing Co. and Delmarva Craft Distributing to create a one-of-a-kind craft beer for the 2025 Festival. This collaboration will bring festivalgoers the limited-edition “Goose Sweat Hazy IPA”, brewed to celebrate Eastern Shore traditions, conservation, and community. The beer will be served at the Festival’s annual premier night on November 13, 2025. 

 

“Each year, we look for new ways to connect people to the spirit of the Festival, and this collaboration with 1623 Brewing Co. is a perfect fit,” said Deena Kilmon, Executive Director, Waterfowl Festival. “Goose Sweat Hazy IPA is fun, flavorful, and 1623 is rooted in the same heritage and sense of community that has defined the Festival for more than fifty years. We had a great time with our volunteers picking the flavor profile!”

 

Thanks to a partnership with Delmarva Craft, Goose Sweat Hazy IPA will be available not only at Festival events, but also in select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout the Delmarva Peninsula. The beer will give supporters a chance to raise a glass to waterfowl, conservation, and the unique culture of the Shore.

 

“We’re proud to partner with the Waterfowl Festival and Delmarva Craft on this release,” said Mark Evans. “The Festival represents the best of Maryland’s traditions, and we are honored to create a beer that complements the celebration.”

 

Proceeds from the release of Goose Sweat Hazy IPA will help support the Waterfowl Festival’s mission of conserving waterfowl and their habitats while promoting the heritage and traditions of the Eastern Shore. For more information on purchase locations, please contact Rick Carter, Delmarva Craft, 443-666-0110.

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September 15, 2025 In Conservation, Conservation Projects, Special Events, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Invests $70,000 in Maryland  Wetland Restoration Projects

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Waterfowl Festival Invests $70,000 in Maryland  Wetland Restoration Projects

Easton, MD – [Insert Date] – The Waterfowl Festival announced today a $70,000 conservation investment to support DU’s Conservation for a Continent Campaign in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These projects will restore wetlands on publicly accessible lands—ensuring that Maryland residents, sportsmen and women, birdwatchers, and future generations have access to natural and wild open spaces.This funding will directly benefit waterfowl, wildlife, water quality, and outdoor recreation at three high-priority sites: Browns Branch Wildlife Management Area (Queen Anne’s County), LeCompte Wildlife Management Area (Dorchester Co), and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Dorchester County).

For more than 50 years, the Waterfowl Festival has celebrated the rich traditions of the Chesapeake Bay while advancing habitat conservation. This year’s gift, funded by the proceeds from the festival’s annual and iconic Premiere Night event,  underscores the Festival’s renewed commitment to protecting the landscapes that sustain both wildlife and the way of life that makes the Shore unique.

“Supporting meaningful, strategic, and shovel-ready  projects of this size ensures that our investment in conservation has lasting impact,” said Julie Susman, Board President, Waterfowl Festival. “These projects improve waterfowl habitat in some of the most important areas of the Atlantic Flyway while also enhancing public access, recreation, and the health of the Chesapeake Bay.”

The $70,000 contribution will help fund three major projects:

  • Browns Branch Wildlife Management Area (Queen Anne’s County) – $20,000 will restore 16.2 acres of marginal farmland into shallow emergent wetlands, improving habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds while reducing an estimated 826 pounds of nitrogen and nearly 39,000 pounds of sediment from entering the Bay each year. 
  • LeCompte Wildlife Management Area (Dorchester County) – $20,000 will support the conversion of 16.6 acres of agricultural land into managed wetlands, enhancing habitat for migratory waterfowl and reducing more than 1,100 pounds of nitrogen and 59,000 pounds of suspended solids annually in the Nanticoke watershed. 
  • Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Dorchester County) – $30,000 will leverage federal funding to restore 23 acres within the Refuge’s core 250-acre managed wetland complex. This work will sustain one of the most important wintering grounds for migratory waterfowl and improve water quality by reducing 1,800 pounds of nitrogen and more than 160 tons of sediment annually. 

 

“The Chesapeake Bay’s wetlands are irreplaceable for waterfowl and people alike,” said Taylor Deemer, DU Director of Development/Maryland-Delaware. “The Waterfowl Festival’s investment is a powerful example of how conservation and community come together to make a lasting difference.”

Projects are expected to be completed by June 2026.

About the Waterfowl Festival
 The Waterfowl Festival, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Easton, Maryland, is dedicated to wildlife conservation, the celebration of waterfowl art, and the preservation of Eastern Shore heritage. Since its founding in 1971, the Festival has raised millions for habitat restoration and community programs across the Chesapeake Bay region. Learn more at www.waterfowlfestival.org.

 

Image: Waterfowl Festival Board of Directors present check to DU Conservation for a Continent program. In order from left to right: Deena Kilmon, Executive Director, Waterfowl Festival; Jake McPherson, Ducks Unlimited Managing Director of Development- Great Lakes/Atlantic Region; Julie Susman, President, Waterfowl Festival 2025, Austin Durrer, Waterfowl Development Committee Chairman; Chip Heaps, Waterfowl Conservation Committee Chairman; Ernest Burns& Jonathon Rondeau, Waterfowl Board of Directors; Taylor Deemer, DU Director of Development/MD-DE; Colin Perry, Amy Horne, and Kim Newcomb, Waterfowl Board of Directors. 

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August 19, 2025 In Conservation Projects, News, Special Events, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Grants $15,000 to Community Conservation Partners

For immediate release: 

August 19, 2025

 

Press contact: Deena Kilmon, Executive Director, 410-829-4052

 

Waterfowl Festival Announces  $15,000 in Community Grants

Easton, MD – As part of our ongoing commitment to preserving our rural environment and supporting wildlife conservation, we are pleased to award grants to three outstanding organizations: Delaware Ducks Unlimited Greenwing Conservation Festival, Pickering Creek Audubon Center, and ShoreRivers. Each organization created exceptional projects that will educate and have a positive impact on our community. 

 

“Each year we are proud to give back to organizations working on conservation and education in the community,” remarked Chip Heaps, Conservation Committee chairman. “This year, the competition was tough with well over $170K in requests. We congratulate the three winning projects on rising to the top in a competitive process.”

To celebrate their efforts, the festival will host a “Local Catch Feast” on September 14th at the Waterfowl Building. Grantees from 2024 and 2025 will showcase highlights of their projects while attendees enjoy a reception featuring local seafood. Featured on the menu are the invasive species chesapeake channa and blue catfish. Other items include crab soup, locally grown oysters and local beverages. Tickets can be purchased at waterfowlfestival.org.

 

Every year, our Community in Conservation Grant Program accepts funding requests from non-profits and community organizations across the region whose mission is to make a difference in supporting our shared mission of environmental conservation. The program supports projects that are at the intersection of waterfowl and habitat conservation and how this impacts our community, whether they are focused on education and outreach, science and research, or restoration. Ideally, projects include aspects of each focus area and benefit our waterfowl, their habitats, and the people of our community. Past awardees include University of MD- Horn Point, University of Delaware, and Talbot County Public Schools. The grant cycle will re-open in spring 2026.

 

Non-profit organizations that impact the environment or the education of our community in this space are welcome to exhibit this year in our Chesapeake Bay Pavilion at Easton High School during this year’s Waterfowl Festival November 14-16, 2025. Please contact the Waterfowl Festival for more information on how your organization can participate by emailing or by calling our office, 410-822-4567.

Pictured: Jan Hynson, Waterfowl Festival Board Member; Mary Helen Gillen. Educator and Climate Program Coordinator at Pickering Creek Audubon Center; Amanda Hoyt, Regional Biologist for the Chesapeake DU; Taylor Deemer, Director of Development DE and MD Ducks Unlimited; Julie Susman Waterfowl Festival Board President; Jerry Serie, Waterfowl Festival Conservaton Committee; Chip Heaps, Waterfowl Festival Board of Directors/Conservation Committee Chairman; Deena Kilmon, Executive Director, Waterfowl Festival.

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June 16, 2025 In News, Special Events

Waterfowl Festival, Inc. grants $30,000 in scholarships to local students 

[Easton, MD] – May 21, 2025  The Waterfowl Festival is pleased to announce that they have selected 15 qualified recipients of this year’s William H. Perry Scholarships with a combined total of  $30,000.

 

The scholarship recipients are William Sherwood, Chesapeake College; Liam Swadley, Rochester Institute of Technology; Lavinia Tindall, University of Maryland; Pippa Milhollan, University of Maryland; Robert Norbury, Wor-Wic College; Viviana Morris, University of Chicago; Joshua Sherwood, University of Maryland; Jack Townsend, Salisbury University; Isabella Jobeck, James Madison University; Graham Willis, Chesapeake College; Charles Kaminskas, Coastal Carolina University; Brian Milhollan, University of Kentucky; Billy Haufe, University of Maryland ; Ashton Milhollan, Loyola University; Cole Paradine, University of Maryland.

 

Ernie Burns, Chairman of the Waterfowl Festival Scholarship Committee, shared, “We are incredibly proud of our recipients. Their dedication to volunteerism truly embodies the spirit of the Waterfowl Festival and the Eastern Shore.” 

 

Each year, students from across the region who have served as “duck sitters” or youth volunteers for the Festival are invited to apply for academic support through the William A. Perry Scholarship Fund. This scholarship recognizes the young volunteers whose energy, dedication, and enthusiasm have been an important part of the legacy of this family friendly event for over fifty years. 

 

Created in honor of Festival co-founder William A. Perry and his wife Betty, this fund supports students from across the region for their post-secondary education.

 

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be high school seniors or current students enrolled in an accredited college, university, trade school, or graduate/post-graduate program. They must also be in good academic standing and have contributed significant time and service as a volunteer for the Waterfowl Festival. To volunteer, please email or call the festival office, 410-822-4567.

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May 20, 2025 In Art, News, Promotional Partners, Special Events, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Talbot Treasures Event to Celebrate Community History

As part of the Talbot250 celebration, a new community-led committee has been formed to bring to life a unique history exhibit: Talbot Treasures: A Community Show and Tell of History and Heirloom. The event, scheduled for June 12–14, 2025, will invite residents to share personal artifacts, documents, and heirlooms that reflect the deep and diverse history of Talbot County.

The Talbot Treasures Committee brings together the Talbot250 Commission, the Waterfowl Festival, and the Talbot Historical Society.

“We’re thrilled to bring our community together around the stories and objects that make Talbot County so special,” said Deena Kilmon, Executive Director of the Waterfowl Festival. “Talbot Treasures will showcase the depth of history found not just in archives, but in our homes, attics, and family traditions.”

Peggy Morey, Executive Director for the Talbot Historical Society, echoed the excitement: “Everyone has something to contribute—a photograph, a family letter, a memory passed down. This is an invitation for everyone in Talbot County to be part of our collective story.”

The event will be held at the Waterfowl Festival Building in Easton and will feature a curated exhibit of community-submitted items with public viewing on Saturday, June 14.

All items must be connected to Talbot County and pre-registered in advance of the event. More details, including registration instructions are available at www.talbot250.org/talbot-treasures

Talbot Treasures joins a growing list of community-led events and programs developed as part of Talbot250, a multi-year celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 365th anniversary of Talbot County. For more information about Talbot250 and upcoming events, visit Talbot250.org.

PHOTOS/CAPTIONS

“5.20.2025 Talbot Treasures Flyer.png”
Flyer for the 2025 Talbot Treasures: Community Show and Tell event.

“5.20.2025 1776 Decanter.jpg”
The Waterfowl Festival found this “The Early Times Distillery Co. – 1976 Bicentennial Edition Whiskey Decanter” to contribute to Talbot Treasures. See the decanter in person, and learn more about it’s story at the Talbot Treasures public viewing on June 14, 2025.

“5.20.2025 Hat.png”
This black crepe hat with a high straight crown and flat brim was worn by Robert Bartless Dixon, a member of the Third Haven Meeting House. Contributed by members of the Talbot Historical Society.

“5.20.2025 Locket.png”
This locket was contributed by Hughlett Kirby. It shows William R. Hughlett on one site, and the other side (shown here) depicts two women. Paper with the locket states that they may be William’s sisters – Tansey Ann and Mary Elizabeth.

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