The Elizabeth Welcome Station, opened just last month as a cultural gateway honoring the city's diverse heritage, has already garnered national attention. The Leisa Collins Historic Preservation Award was presented to the City of Elizabeth on Thursday afternoon at the Elizabeth History, Heritage & the Arts event, recognizing the exemplary work demonstrated by revitalizing this historic structure and transforming it into a welcoming entry point for residents and visitors alike.
Ms. Collins explained, "A building with history has a story and once it is destroyed it is lost forever. With this award I recognize the City of Elizabeth for setting a stellar example of historical stewardship by preserving and transforming this landmark to tell the story of not only the built things surrounding us, but more importantly, the people who made them so."
Honorable Mayor J. Christian Bollwage accepted the award on behalf of the City of Elizabeth. He shared: "Elizabeth has always been a city that values its history while continuing to build for the future. This event celebrates the people, places and stories that have shaped our community and reminds us that preserving our heritage strengthens our identity for generations to come."
The award presentation was followed by a panel discussion, Painting the Past Forward: How Art and Historic Stewardship Keep Community Stories Alive. Moderated by the caretaker of the L. Ron Hubbard Elizabeth, NJ Historic Home, the panel brought together community leaders who shared insights on how art, cultural storytelling, and historic preservation work together to illuminate untold stories, strengthen community identity, empower individuals and build local pride. The panel emphasized the need to effectively remedy the trend of disregard for cultural past, reflecting on the power of the arts to safeguard history and engage individuals to pass it forward.
Panelist, Union County Commissioner and Elizabeth Recreation Director Stan Neron brought his experience in public service, cultural enrichment, and community involvement to the discussion. As a board member of the 313+ Ancestors Speak Project, he highlighted the power of art and history to inspire, empower and enrich our culture.
Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs History Programs Coordinator Mr. John Prescott also served on the panel, sharing insights from his projects with community groups to create dynamic programs that educate the public about the remarkable history of Union County. He shared his passion for history, illuminating how this topic spans all fields of learning and the importance of taking personal initiative to get involved.
Focusing on keeping humanity at the center of storytelling, panelist Ms. Katherine Craig, Caretaker of the Boxwood Hall State Historic Site in Elizabeth, added perspective from her experience designing and presenting historical programs and her success in leading the site's public engagement across all age groups.
Joining the local panelists was nationally acclaimed architectural artist Ms. Leisa Collins, who shared her insights and passion for the power of art to preserve and enrich communities and culture. She shared how the use of art can preserve the character of historic places and elevate the stories of the people who lived them.
As the event drew to a close, Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, presented an Award of Cultural Leadership to Ms. Jennifer Costa and the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, in appreciation for their collaboration in planning this joint event and their longstanding dedication to cultural stewardship. "This award honors those who exemplify the philosophy L. Ron Hubbard followed himself—to share what wisdom he has, and to help others help themselves," Rev. Parrino said.
Guests then made their way inside the Elizabeth Welcome Station for a closer look at the newly unveiled Historic Homes & Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit. The exhibit showcases the city's historic structures and treasured landmarks, offering an even deeper understanding of Elizabeth's rich history and its legacy as the "City of Firsts."
The Elizabeth Welcome Station is open to visitors to explore the city's history, culture, and community through the GoElizabethNJ250 initiative. Its transformation reflects a shift from transportation hub to cultural gateway, linking the movement of the past with the discovery of the present. For more information visit https://www.goelizabethnj.com/things-to-do/attractions/historic-sites/elizabeth-station-welcome-center/.
