St. Mary’s City, MD — Historic St. Mary’s City (HSMC) is proud to announce that Peter A. Friesen, Director of Education, has been elected Vice President of the Association for Living History, Farm, and Agricultural Museums (ALHFAM).
ALHFAM is an international organization that supports museums and professionals committed to preserving and interpreting rural and agricultural history through immersive, hands-on experiences. The organization is divided into nine regions across the United States and Canada, promoting local participation and collaboration. Friesen’s election to the Vice Presidency reflects his dedication to educational excellence and his leadership within the field of living history.
“Peter’s election is a testament not only to his creativity and leadership, but also to Historic St. Mary’s City’s growing role on the national stage,” said John L. Seidel, PhD, Executive Director of Historic St. Mary’s City. “His work bridges scholarship and storytelling in ways that captivate audiences and deepen understanding of early American life. We’re proud to have one of our own shaping the future of the museum field.”
Since becoming Director of Education in 2014, Friesen has been instrumental in expanding educational and interpretive offerings that connect modern audiences with 17th-century Maryland. This collaborative approach has helped earn regional and national acclaim for the museum, including two prestigious awards for group-led programming.
In 2019, members of the Historic St. Mary’s City Education Department received the Maryland Preservation Award for Excellence in Public Programming from the Maryland Historical Trust for its creative “Adults Only Tour.” This innovative, team-developed program offered evening tours with mature themes, bringing to light the complex and sometimes risqué stories of early Maryland.
The following year, the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) awarded HSMC its highest honor, the Award of Excellence, for the same program, titled “Sin and Scandal at St. Mary’s: An Adults Only Tour.” These awards reflect the combined efforts of the entire education team, who worked to present history in ways that are both historically grounded and highly engaging for diverse audiences.
Additionally, Friesen along with (retired) Captain William Gates, oversaw the construction of the new Maryland Dove, ensuring that the vessel’s main deck was built with ADA accessibility in mind—a significant achievement, as most tall ships lack accessible design features.
Friesen will begin his term as Vice President immediately, working alongside museum professionals across North America and Europe to foster professional development, collaboration, and support within the ALHFAM network.