The Delaware Company presented two awards on July 13 to individuals who have made a significant impact on the running and upkeep of Fort Delaware. 

The James W. Burbank Award, named for the fort’s builder, has been awarded to an individual or organization that made a significant contribution to local history within the last year. Elise Kopcha was presented the James W. Burbank Memorial Award by the founder’s daughter, Peggy, for her generous donations and contributions of time volunteering at the historic fort. 

The President’s award is presented each year to a person or organization that has made significant contributions over the course of time. This year’s President’s Award went to the Cochecton Preservation Society for their long standing commitment to preserving the local history of Cochecton.

The honorees also received letters from US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, congratulating the recipients for their commitment to local and national history. New York State Senator Peter Oberacker, and Conservative Party Member Camille O’Brien attended the event.