Preserving a Legacy: Dave Wilson Sr. and Preston Automotive Group Donate $25,000 to Restore Easton’s Historic Waterfowl Building

In a heartfelt display of community commitment, we are proud to announce our founder, Dave Wilson Sr., has donated $25,000 to support critical roof repairs at the iconic Waterfowl Building in downtown Easton, Maryland. This generous contribution helps close a funding gap and ensures the beloved landmark remains a vibrant part of the Eastern Shore for generations to come.

A Building Rich in History

Built in 1927 as the National Guard Armory, the Waterfowl Building has served as a pillar of the Easton community for nearly a century. Over the years, it has hosted everything from political rallies and civic events to the cherished Waterfowl Festival each November, a celebration of conservation, heritage, and artistic expression rooted in the traditions of the Eastern Shore.

The building continues to be a gathering place for residents and visitors alike, home to events like Plein Air Easton, the TIS Lip Sync Battle, and First Night Talbot. Its legacy is one of unity, education, and culture, making its preservation a community-wide priority.

A Gift That Inspires

“When the Preston Automotive Group learned of a funding gap in grant funds to make critical repairs to the Waterfowl Building’s roof, they stepped up—directing their 2025 gift to close it,” said Deena Kilmon, Executive Director of the Waterfowl Festival. “Their generosity is a powerful example of true community partnership. We are deeply grateful for this impactful contribution, which we hope will inspire others to support the restoration of this beloved landmark as it enters its second century of service to Talbot County’s residents.”

With deep roots in the Eastern Shore, the PAG family has long advocated for preserving the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. Our support for the Waterfowl Building restoration is both personal and community-driven, rooted in pride, tradition, and legacy.

“We’re incredibly proud to support the restoration of a space that is a landmark to the town of Easton,” shares Wilson. “Supporting its restoration is about more than preserving a structure. It’s about honoring the memories, traditions, and sense of community that make the Eastern Shore feel like home.”

Carrying the Tradition Forward

Since its founding in 1971, the Waterfowl Festival, Inc. has raised more than $6 million to support wildlife conservation and education efforts across the Chesapeake region. From scholarships for local students to grants for conservation organizations, their mission has always been to protect what makes the Eastern Shore so extraordinary. Plans for interior renovations will unfold over the coming year, guided by community feedback and available funding.

As Easton prepares to celebrate 100 years of this treasured building, the gift from Dave Wilson Sr. ensures that its legacy remains strong and its doors stay open for generations to come.

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