The 29th Division Association, representing over 2,000 members, has expressed its support for community efforts to prevent the demolition of the historic Chestertown Armory. The association believes the armory is a cherished piece of history that deserves to be preserved for its significance and legacy.
The 29th Infantry Division, also known as the “Blue and Gray Division” with their motto “29, Let’s Go!”, is an infantry division of the Army based at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. This division is currently a formation of the Army National Guard. Exploits of the 29th Infantry Division have been featured numerous times in popular media, particularly for its role on D-Day. The division’s actions on Omaha Beach are featured prominently in the 1962 film “The Longest Day,” as well as in the 1998 film “Saving Private Ryan.”
The Chestertown Armory played a pivotal role during World War II as it trained and deployed U.S. Army medicos to treat and evacuate the wounded during fierce frontline actions. These medics from the 29th Infantry Division, 115th Infantry Regiment, Company G, later participated in the D-Day invasion at Omaha Beach, Normandy. Unarmed and under heavy fire, they risked their lives to provide first aid to the wounded, earning numerous Silver Stars, Bronze Stars, and Purple Hearts for their bravery.
The armory is named after Sgt. John H. Newnam, a native son of Chestertown and World War II hero affectionately known as Blimp. His dedication to serving his nation, community and family is commemorated through the posthumous dedication of the armory in his name in 1993.
Another decorated local war hero from the armory was 1st Sgt. Edward Ringgold Elburn for whom the drill hall was named in 1993. Elburn was pivotal in maintaining the armory and supporting its role as a community social hub during his 30 plus years as company clerk and caretaker.
Despite its historical and cultural importance, the Chestertown Armory has faced challenges, including the proposed demolition by Washington College in 2022. This proposal aims to build a new boutique hotel on the site, potentially providing economic benefits to the community at the expense of a piece of history.
However, the 29th Division Association aligns with a group of community advocates, including local preservation architect Thomas Kocubinski, who believe that progress and preservation can coexist harmoniously. The association urges decision-makers to find a balanced approach that embraces progress without erasing the armory’s rich history by demolition.
The association commends Preservation Magazine for featuring an article that highlights the cultural and historical significance of the Chestertown Armory. This support from Preservation Magazine underscores the importance of safeguarding this historic site for future generations.
For more information about the 29th Division Association’s efforts or to learn more about the Chestertown Armory, please contact Thomas Kocubinski at info@archtk.com
To view the petition visit Change.org
Editor’s note: Regularly scheduled meetings of the Historic District Commission are held the first Wednesday of each month at 4 p.m., unless otherwise announced. A signup sheet will be available at the meeting to allow interested parties to make comments. On the May 1 agenda is Washington College’s application and presentation for demolition of the Armory. The commission will hear testimony and ask questions. The agenda includes public comment in support and opposition to the request, after which the board is slated to deliberate and issue a decision.
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