December 8, 2024

Lecture: Modernism Comes to St. Mary’s

The Flattops in Lexington Paek under construction in 1943.

The Historic Preservation Commission of St. Mary’s County will host a lecture, Modernism Comes to St. Mary’s County, from 6 to 7:30pm Thursday, October 17, 2024.

The presentation will explore the transformative period in St. Mary’s County’s history during 1942, when the US government established the Patuxent Naval Air Test Center, leading to the development of Lexington Park. This dramatic shift reshaped the county’s landscape, transitioning fertile farmland into the site of the modern naval base and the adjoining town. The design and construction of Lexington Park, known as the “Flattops,” was influenced by modernist architectural pioneers who helped shape the town’s unique aesthetic.

Join the commission to hear featured speaker John Cook delve into how modernist planning ideas were brought to the US and how early economic growth helped create the St. Mary’s County we know today. This educational event will shed light on the county’s rich history and the lasting impact of modernism on its development.

How to Participate:

  • In Person: Attend the lecture on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge St. in Leonardtown.
  • Watch Live: Tune in to St. Mary’s County Government TV Channel 95, or stream live on our YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.
  • On-Demand Viewing: The lecture will remain on YouTube for on-demand viewing.

Learn more about the Historic Preservation Commission at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/hpc.

For more information, contact the SMCG’s Department of Land Use & Growth Management at 301-475-4200, ext. 71507 or via email to [email protected].

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