The 2019 Archie K. Davis Award for History was presented to Langdon E. Oppermann.
Ms. Oppermann is an architectural historian and planner with the architectural firm of Joseph K. Oppermann, Architect, P.A. The firm specializes in research, restoration, and retrofitting of historic buildings. She conducts intensive-level research on the history and architectural history of buildings and structures for planning evaluations and preservation efforts.
Ms. Oppermann earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in City Planning and Historic Preservation from Hollins University in 1974 and a Master of Arts degree in City Planning and Historic Preservation from George Washington University. Her service to our community has been lengthy, varied, and has advanced the cause of our local history. She has served as a member and Vice-Chairman of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Historic Properties Commission, a member of the Board of Directors for the Study of Afro-American History of Winston-Salem, a member of the Advisory Committee for Design Review Guidelines for the West End Historic District, and Chairman of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Historic Resources Commission.
Her notable local projects include the preparation of the nomination of the Washington Park neighborhood as a National Register Historic District. In 1997-1998, Ms. Oppermann facilitated the direct participation of the Washington Park residents in the presentation of the nomination through research and photographs of historic properties, the first time such a collaborative effort was undertaken in North Carolina. She also prepared the nomination of the Reynoldstown neighborhood as a National Register Historic District as well as an inventory of about 2,000 buildings associated with Winston-Salem’s African-American History.
Ms. Oppermann’s work continues to assist other authors ranging from Heather Fearnbach’s Winston-Salem’s Architectural History to Robert Kerstad’s study of tobacco unions to Elizabeth Herbin-Triant’s new study of racism in Winston-Salem’s neighborhoods. Her devotion and contributions to local history have most certainly enriched our appreciation and knowledge of local history. WHS is most pleased to have Langdon Oppermann as the 2019 Recipient of the Archie K. Davis Award for History!
Contributed by David E. Gall
