This morning I head to Fort Davis for the official naming of that community as one of this year's Dozen Distinctive Destinations by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Deserving because of its nearly pristine setting in the mountains (no stop lights in town!), significant historic fabric, and well-developed (but not commercialized) tourism infrastructure, Fort Davis is one of my favorite places in the region. Pictured here is the well preserved Fort Davis National Historic Site, part of the National Park Service.
I was happy when the Chamber director asked me to write a letter of support for their nomination and was thrilled to learn they got the designation. All week I've been sending out press releases, putting together press packets, and helping in any way I can. That's my role. A few weeks ago the Chamber director was desperate for photos for the new historic walking tour brochure they'll launch today--so camera in hand, I got them for her.
In the eight years of the program, only three other Texas communities have received this honor, so this is a big, big deal. We'll use this honor to get media attention for the entire region.
From the National Trust, here's this year's group of nominees:
Aiken, S.C.—Aiken seamlessly balances its varied 19th century heritage with cosmopolitan flair to offer all the necessary ingredients for a great vacation.
Apalachicola, Fla.— Apalachicola, an authentic coastal town renowned for its mouth-watering seafood and singular charm, features a waterfront dotted with fishing vessels, a downtown filled with eclectic shops and streets lined with historic buildings.
Columbus, Miss.—The birthplace of prize-winning playwright, Tennessee Williams, Columbus thrives on its extraordinary mix of Southern history, natural beauty and culture—with antebellum homes spared during the Civil War and historic tours showcasing the remarkable impact of the African American community to a revitalized Main Street that possesses great curb appeal.
Crested Butte, Colo.—One of the most charming vacation destinations in the Rockies, this former coal mining village is a recreational paradise that offers a rare mix of rugged beauty, history and adventure no matter the time of year.
Fort Davis, Texas—With no traffic lights or chain stores, Fort Davis is a gateway to an unspoiled terrain, offering an extraordinary blend of majestic scenery, abundant wildlife and cultural resources that bring to life the history of the 19th century western frontier.
Friday Harbor, Wash.—This small, well-preserved community in the San Juan Island chain is one square mile of perfection—an antidote to city life, ideal for outdoor adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Portland, Ore.— Boasting both the charm of a small town community and the urban vitality of a big city, Portland, Oregon is a dynamic destination that offers an alluring mix of natural beauty, lively downtown entertainment and landmark historic attractions.
Portsmouth, N.H.—This elegant seaport, the nation’s third oldest city, is one of the most culturally rich destinations in the country with its captivating blend of coastal beauty, historic buildings and lively downtown.
Red Wing, Minn.—Conveniently located one hour south of the Twin Cities, this handsome historic town features a treasure trove of architectural gems dating back to its beginnings as a riverfront trade point as well as an enviable natural environment.
Ste. Genevieve, Mo.—One hour south of St. Louis, Ste. Genevieve is the only French colonial village remaining in the United States, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the pioneer spirit of the early settlers.
San Juan Bautista, Calif.—Known as the “City of History” because of its exceptional collection of Spanish colonial architecture, San Juan Bautista showcases Old California like no other.
Wilmington, N.C.—From riverboats to battleships, grand old mansions to historic museums, splendid gardens to Civil War sites—Wilmington, North Carolina has a charm and style all its own that dates back nearly three centuries.
Apalachicola, Fla.— Apalachicola, an authentic coastal town renowned for its mouth-watering seafood and singular charm, features a waterfront dotted with fishing vessels, a downtown filled with eclectic shops and streets lined with historic buildings.
Columbus, Miss.—The birthplace of prize-winning playwright, Tennessee Williams, Columbus thrives on its extraordinary mix of Southern history, natural beauty and culture—with antebellum homes spared during the Civil War and historic tours showcasing the remarkable impact of the African American community to a revitalized Main Street that possesses great curb appeal.
Crested Butte, Colo.—One of the most charming vacation destinations in the Rockies, this former coal mining village is a recreational paradise that offers a rare mix of rugged beauty, history and adventure no matter the time of year.
Fort Davis, Texas—With no traffic lights or chain stores, Fort Davis is a gateway to an unspoiled terrain, offering an extraordinary blend of majestic scenery, abundant wildlife and cultural resources that bring to life the history of the 19th century western frontier.
Friday Harbor, Wash.—This small, well-preserved community in the San Juan Island chain is one square mile of perfection—an antidote to city life, ideal for outdoor adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Portland, Ore.— Boasting both the charm of a small town community and the urban vitality of a big city, Portland, Oregon is a dynamic destination that offers an alluring mix of natural beauty, lively downtown entertainment and landmark historic attractions.
Portsmouth, N.H.—This elegant seaport, the nation’s third oldest city, is one of the most culturally rich destinations in the country with its captivating blend of coastal beauty, historic buildings and lively downtown.
Red Wing, Minn.—Conveniently located one hour south of the Twin Cities, this handsome historic town features a treasure trove of architectural gems dating back to its beginnings as a riverfront trade point as well as an enviable natural environment.
Ste. Genevieve, Mo.—One hour south of St. Louis, Ste. Genevieve is the only French colonial village remaining in the United States, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the pioneer spirit of the early settlers.
San Juan Bautista, Calif.—Known as the “City of History” because of its exceptional collection of Spanish colonial architecture, San Juan Bautista showcases Old California like no other.
Wilmington, N.C.—From riverboats to battleships, grand old mansions to historic museums, splendid gardens to Civil War sites—Wilmington, North Carolina has a charm and style all its own that dates back nearly three centuries.
I think we're in good company!
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