Historians of New York State (APHNYS) selected Dr. William “Bill” Andrews for the 2019 “Excellence in Promoting Local History Award.” The award will be presented at the Awards Banquet of the APHNYS Annual Meeting on September 10.
The award recognizes his record of publishing Brockport history. He has published seven books on Brockport history and an eighth is scheduled for release on November 20. Also, he is completing a book-length biography of Clarkson’s Henry R. Selden, NYS lieutenant governor and Court of Appeals Judge and Susan B. Anthony’s attorney.
One of the letters supporting his nomination said, in part,
Andrews’ contributions to preserving and promoting the local history of the greater Brockport community through his publications, advocacy of historical preservation, presentations to professional agencies, and in public venues allow the general public to understand how local historical people and events impact local, regional, and national events. Bill’s dedication to applying professional skills and knowledge to make local history accessible to a wider audience has contributed to shaping a stronger identity of our community as well as developing a stronger historical consciousness. Personally, and professionally, Bill is the exemplar for citizens and public historians.
In 1995, Andrews retired from 41 years of college teaching, the last 29 at the College at Brockport. He has served as Village Trustee and Deputy Mayor and chairs Brockport’s Historic Preservation Board. He was the founding president and is a current member of the Brockport Community Museum.
According to Garrett Roe, secretary for the Brockport Community Museum, Bill’s nomination was spearheaded by: the Brockport Community Museum, in collaboration with many community partners including the Village of Brockport, the Town of Sweden, the Western Monroe Historical Society, the College at Brockport, SUNY, and professional colleagues such as the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation. “This nomination is a true showcase of the wonderful community we have,” Garrett said, “and even more so, a testament to the wonderful work and dedication that Bill continues to provide the greater Brockport community over the many years.”
(Information in this article is gleaned from these sources: Email communication with Bill Andrews, Brockport Community Museum, and the APHNYS organization. – DH)
