In anticipation of the San Marco Preservation Society’s 50th anniversary in 2026, Resident News has initiated a monthly series spotlighting the organization’s past presidents. This feature pays tribute to the individuals who have been instrumental in safeguarding the historical and architectural essence of the San Marco neighborhood. Stay tuned each month as we honor the legacy and ongoing efforts that continue to shape San Marco’s unique character.
When Terry Moore and his wife, Patsy, realized they would need a bigger house for their growing family, it was SMPS Past President Lee Mercier who tipped them off to the family-friendly community of San Marco.
In fact, there was a house for sale right across the street from the Merciers. Combine that with San Marco’s vicinity to Downtown, where Moore worked, and its proximity to good school and medical facilities and Moore knew it was perfect.
“It seemed like the epicenter for our present and future needs,” Moore said.
The house was built in 1928. The Moores bought the house in 1979, moved in it the following April and still love living in it today.
Moore joined Mercier at SMPS, serving its board of directors before leading as president for his 1989-90 term, bringing with him a background in the legal field.
“I feel like I brought a legal viewpoint to the board that helped us use our influence with City Council members to benefit the community.”
He considers the conversion of The Marco townhomes in the heart of San Marco his favorite project. The townhomes are located at 2130 San Marco Boulevard where the boulevard merges into Hendricks Avenue.
“When a developer, Charlie Chupp, bought the historic townhomes, residents were afraid he was going to tear them down to build new condos,” Moore said. “But Charlie talked to the board and assured them that his intentions were to bring progress and preservation to the project – owners, not just temporary residents. Charlie didn’t live in San Marco then, but he fell in love with it and moved into the neighborhood.”
Moore said that many factors contribute to his and Patsy’s love for San Marco. They cherish its strong sense of neighborhood – where people walk, stop to chat, and kids ride their bikes safely along tree-lined sidewalks – and they’re grateful for the countless friends they’ve made over the years, many of whom moved in decades ago and never left.
“A lot of people share keys to their homes with their neighbors. They trust each other,” Moore said.
Not only do neighbors become friends, but also many get involved in neighborhood activities. Many volunteer their time and resources to support the activities and events that the neighborhood hosts.
Moore points to Patsy, an artist who produces illustrated calligraphy prints, as one example.
“Patsy is the person behind the San Marco Easter egg hunt,” he said. “She has organized it for 45 years. The volunteers and she hide the eggs around the circle at the houses and in the park.”
Among the many other positive aspects, San Marco’s openness to the arts and diversity ranks high with Moore.
“People are respectful of each other and of every nationality,” Moore said.
