In October The Castle Historic House Museum will receive the award for Outstanding Achievement in the area of Public Programming for the success of its concert “Lest We Forget: Remembering Washington County in WWI.” Held in April at the historic Peoples Bank Theatre, this concert brought together talented regional musicians and renowned speakers to remember the role Washington County men and women played in this world-wide conflict 100 years ago. The over 200 guests in attendance marked Marietta’s “Founders Day” and the centennial of U.S. entrance into the  First World War with an event remembering the service of Washington Countians at home and overseas.

Peoples Bank Theatre the night of “Lest We Forget.”

Since its founding in 1960, the Ohio Local History Alliance has worked closely with the Ohio History Connection to advance the field of local history in Ohio through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Over 300 organizations are represented by this group. They range from small historical societies to the largest museums in the state. Each year the Alliance holds an annual meeting and conference where its awards luncheon highlights excellence in local history initiatives throughout Ohio. The annual awards include Individual Achievement and History Outreach Awards in the areas of Public Programming, Media and Publications, and Exhibits/ Displays. To qualify for this award The Castle’s program had to demonstrate the historical and educational value of “Lest We Forget.”

Living history interpreters representing Marietta National Guard and Red Cross greeted guests entering the show.

One letter of support for this event’s nomination written by concert speaker Dr. Paul Lockhart of Wright State University (Dayton, OH) summarizes the success of the event:

“Lest We Forget” was masterfully planned and executed. The several musical performances included faithful renditions of WWI favorites and interesting new interpretations of iconic WWI songs, all by talented musicians. The talks on subjects ranging from the broader implications of the Great War for the United States to the experience of the war in Marietta – were simultaneously well-informed and yet easily accessible for the general public. This was not a mere random aggregation of songs and brief talks. It was crafted like a story – and like all good narratives, with a distinct beginning, middle, and end – and carried the audience along with it.

The final bow from the concert’s speakers and performers at the end of the show.

The goal for the event was to commemorate this forgotten time period, but to do so in an innovative, engaging way. Thanks to the help of local organizations such as Peoples Bank Theatre, Marietta Main Street, the Washington County Historical Society, and the sponsorship of numerous individuals and businesses, “Lest We Forget” achieved this goal.

The Castle is a Victorian house museum that offers tours of the 1855 Gothic Revival style home, fully furnished with Victorian decor. Special events include summer camps, bus trips, presentations, workshops, concerts, children’s programs and more!
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