Last year, The Hancock’s Resolution Foundation lost two of its founding members – Henry A. Schmidt, who passed away on August 10, 2024 at the age of 94, and James (Jim) Morrison, who died at the age of 92 on November 3, 2024. The two passionate historic preservationists spent many years restoring and revitalizing the historic property and farmhouse known as Hancock’s Resolution with the shared vision to preserve, protect and promote the unique aspects of the building and grounds for historical and educational purposes.
On Sunday, April 13, Anne Arundel County officials honored the two men with a ceremony held at Hancock’s Resolution. During the event, Anne Arundel County Director of Recreation & Parks Jessica Ley presented the families of Schmidt and Morrison with an executive citation. “The residents of Anne Arundel County solute and honor Mr. Schmidt, whose passion for agriculture and commitment to preserving the heritage at Hancock’s Resolution inspire and connect us to the past,” she said. “He was a farmer from the day he was born and actively involved in agriculture all his life. His spirit of community and commitment to preserving Maryland’s and Anne Arundel County’s history is an enduring legacy that continues to enrich lives of the countless individuals today. In remembrance of his influence and impact, we celebrate his life and contribution to Anne Arundel County shared heritage.”
“In honor of Mr. Morrison’s tireless efforts in preserving the history of Hancock’s Resolution to ensure the legacy for future generations,” said Ley during the ceremony for Morrison. “Jim was a passionate historic preservationist, establishing the Hancocks Resolution Foundation and dedicating years to restoring the historical site in Anne Arundel County as a member of the Friends Of Hancock’s Resolution Foundation. For more than twenty years, Jim put his heart and hard work – including blood sweat and tears – into preserving this wonderful piece of Anne Arundel County’s heritage. His and the other founder’s work was so well done that eventually Anne Arundel County Recreation & Parks took over the management of this historical farmhouse. In remembrance of his influence and impact, we celebrate his life and contributions to the Anne Arundel County shared heritage,” shared Ley.
The ceremony also included the unveiling of two plaques, one dedicated to Jim Morrison and the other to Henry Schmidt. The plaque for Schmidt can be found at the gazebo in front of the barn/visitor’s center, and the plaque for Morrison is located at the gazebo next to the lavender field.
Hancock’s Resolution, located at 2795 Bayside Beach Road, is open to the public on Sundays (except Easter) from 1:00pm – 4:00pm through October 26. Admission is free. For a complete list of events, visit their website.
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