Beach to Bay Heritage Area Presented "History & Hymns" Last Month to Great Success

The Beach to Bay Heritage Area presented HISTORY & HYMNS: An Evening of Gospel on the Shore featuring Dr. John Wesley Wright, Annabell Midley, and American Idol star Jay Copeland! This sold out concert had over 300 attendants was held on May 16, 2026 at 4:00pm at Asbury United Methodist Church in Salisbury.
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The program blended storytelling and live performances to explore the rich history and enduring legacy of spirituals, gospels, and communal singing on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The Beach to Bay Heritage Area also relaunched the presentation of Heritage Awards this year after a brief hiatus. Three awards were presented during the performance's intermission.

Heritage Award: Dr. Clara Small, professor emerita at Salisbury University, for her significant and long-lasting contributions to the community by interpreting, preserving, researching, and writing about local history and heritage.

Legacy Award: Mary Ada Marshall, coming all the way from Smith Island, for her invaluable role in preserving and bringing attention to the traditional craft of Smith Island Cakes.

Tee O'Connor Heritage Professional Award: William "Bill" Wilson for his lifelong dedication to preserving our heritage and history, spending over four decades at Pemberton Hall and various preservation groups on the lower shore.

Highlights from the Night