Warwick historians Sue Gardner and Jean Beattie May honored

WARWICK — Historians Sue Gardner and Jean Beattie May were honored during ceremonies at Warwick Town Hall last Friday.

In presenting the awards, which read, "In recognition and appreciation of your many contributions to the preservation of our community,'' Town Historian Dr. Richard Hull first addressed May, the Warwick Village historian.

"Over the years," he said, "you have written illuminating, thought-provoking and well-researched articles for our local newspapers on aspects of our community's history and of many of its leading individuals and families."

Hull pointed out that her research led to joining up with Silvio Galterio in 2009 and publishing "The Halcyon Days: The Historic Homes of Warwick and the Families that Breathed Life into Them."

May and her husband, Cushman, also serve on the Board of the Warwick Conservancy.

Hull also praised Town of Warwick Deputy Historian Sue Gardner for her leadership role in organizing the archives of the Warwick Historical Society.

"More recently," he added, "you have been instrumental in the establishment and operation of a History Research and Exhibition Room in the new Albert Wisner Public Library."

Hull reported that Gardner has developed online programs to make local history more accessible to the general public and that she recently initiated a community effort to restore the historic Hathorn House.

"And somehow along the way," he said, "you and Gary and Kathy Randall authored, "Days Gone By: A History in Pictures of the Town of Warwick 1827 to 1945."

"Clearly," Hull concluded, "these two distinguished Warwick historians richly deserve our high praise and deep appreciation for their tremendous work in advancing the cause of history in our community."

- Roger Gavan