A lifelong Sharpsburg resident, antique aficionado and volunteer board member for the Sharpsburg Neighborhood Organization recently was recognized for eight years of service.
Charles “Chas” Smith Jr. retired from SNO in December.
He was recognized with the distinguished Board Service Award for outstanding volunteerism by board chair Lauren Bucaro.
Smith, 71, grew up on Sisca Street and recalled how everybody knew each other and that the small borough was pretty much one big family.
“I know back doors and second floors and every street in between. I went to school here, went to church here, played ball here, got married here and even my son got married here,” Smith said. “I didn’t expect this award, but it made me feel good.”
Smith previously worked in factories and opened Antiques on North Canal in the 1980s and, later, Chas’s Antiques on Main Street, which closed during the mid-1990s.
“His dedication has showed up everywhere,” wrote Bucaro in a SNO Facebook post honoring Smith. “From running the flea market, his presence at community events, to offering steady, thoughtful guidance as we navigated our board transition. Whenever we needed clarity, he was the one that helped us find it.”
Smith continues to coordinate Sharpsburg’s seasonal community flea market and serves on the board of Roots of Faith in Sharpsburg.
He is the son of the late Charles Smith Sr., an Army colonel who was the first Black commander of Sharpsburg Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 709 in the 1970s.
Sharpsburg Mayor Kayla Portis, who is Smith’s niece, said her uncle is not only a devoted family man but opened the first Black-owned business in Sharpsburg.
“He’s always been willing to help those in need,” Portis said. “He accomplished so much and helped enrich the culture of Sharpsburg. This award is truly well deserved. Thank you, Chas, for everything you’ve done and continue to do for our community.”
Smith continues to co-host fundraiser breakfasts at the VFW Post 709 in Sharpsburg and is a member of the Sharpsburg Historical Commission.
When he’s relaxing, he enjoys watching football, attending antique shows, gardening and smoking a quality cigar.
Smith, a co-founder of the Sharpsburg Community Garden, encourages fellow Sharpsburgers to “stay involved and keep active.”
Smith’s retirement leaves a vacancy on the SNO board.
Those interested in helping to steer SNO’s mission and growth are encouraged to apply.
To learn more about the position, email board@sharpsburgneighborhood.org.