Leesburg, VA (October 26, 2026) – The public is invited to attend the 2026 Loudoun History Awards, which will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 1, at Thomas Balch Library. This year's honorees are Alicia O. Cohen, Gertrude Ashton Evans, and Paul Kreingold.
Alicia O. Cohen and Gertrude Ashton Evans will be recognized for their leadership in the public history project “Honoring Black Patriots and Loyalists in the American Revolution.” Through original historical research, interpretive exhibits, educational programming, community presentations, teacher development initiatives, publications, and a widely attended symposium, they have helped broaden public understanding of the lives and contributions of Black Americans during the Revolutionary era and strengthened Loudoun County's commemoration of America's 250th anniversary.
Paul Kreingold will be recognized for his exceptional contributions to researching, documenting, and interpreting the history of Potomac Marble and its importance to Loudoun County and the nation. Through his book Potomac Marble: The History of the Search for the Ideal Stone, extensive public lectures, field expeditions, and ongoing historical research, he has brought greater public awareness to Loudoun County's geological and historical significance while engaging audiences throughout the region.
The Loudoun History Awards are sponsored by the Thomas Balch Library Advisory Commission and hosted by the Thomas Balch Library. The awards honor individuals who have made significant contributions to preserving Loudoun's past through research, education, preservation, interpretation, writing, visual arts, and long-term involvement in local historical organizations. Since 1993, the awards have recognized some of Loudoun County's most dedicated historians, educators, preservationists, researchers, and community leaders.
The public is invited to attend the awards ceremony. Seating is limited. To register or for more information, email balchlib@leesburgva.gov or contact Library Director Laura Christiansen at 703-737-7195.
Pictured: From left to right, Gertrude Ashton Evans, Alicia O. Cohen, Paul Kreingold.
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