Rockville's Recent Past

The Recent Past refers to the middle decades of the 20th century, an era that
shaped Rockville as we know it today.  Many buildings of the recent past have
reached the awkward age of being too old to be regarded as daring or innovative
and too young to have achieved the status of a cherished landmark.  This year, Peerless Rockville offers a slate of programs that explores the architecture of Rockville’s Recent Past and the complex, sometimes contentious issues involved in documenting, understanding, and preserving a critical period in local, regional, and national history.

All programs are free and open to the public.  Refreshments served.

Note for programs in the Red Brick Courthouse:  Free parking behind the Courthouse in the evening.  Enter from Jefferson St.

This educational series is produced by Peerless Rockville, co-sponsored by the Rockville Historic District Commission, and funded in part by the Montgomery County Historic Preservation Commission and the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County. 

Read more about the Recent Past and why it matters.

Part 1    Rockville in the 1950s

An illustrated talk by Eileen McGuckian, author of Rockville, Portrait of a City, and introduction to Rockville's Recent Past Survey.  Program co-sponsored by Maryvale Elementary School PTA.

The 1950s was a heady decade in America.  In the Washington area, expansion of the Federal government sparked unprecedented suburban growth, much of it near Rockville.  This program will explore the mid-20th century changes that occurred in traffic and roads, business and industry, local government and citizen participation, architecture, and attitudes in the growing city. 

First presented on January 25 at the Maryvale Elementary School

Was shown on the Rockville Channel in May

Join us for an overview by Teresa B. Lachin, PhD., architectural historian, of local modern architecture of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s followed by a lively community discussion.  Featured topics include the styles, influences, and characteristics of modernism in Rockville and a survey of noteworthy – sometimes controversial -- buildings and projects.

First presented on March 8 at the Red Brick Courthouse

Was shown on the Rockville Channel in May.

Discussion and slide lecture highlighting the professionals who created the face of modern Rockville.

First presented on June 14 at the Red Brick Courthouse.