Historical Commission
Present: Sue D., Adrienne B., Roseann B., Mike D., John C., (Bob C., and Mark C. present via TEAMS)
I. Mike reported that four people have indicated they want to purchase plaques. Mike created an order form from which homeowners can submit information to be included on the house oval. Payments of $90 would be made payable to the Historical Commission, funds will be deposited, and a payment to the vendor will be initiated. Mike reported he will finalize the order form, which will be sent out to the board via email for approval/suggested changes before forwarding to interested parties.
II. Civil War Memorial- Roseann reported that she has requested a quote from Bartlett Consolidated regarding painting the whole fence and not just the section that was hit by a motor vehicle this past winter. We discussed getting a quote from them on the cannons in the future. Mike reported that he emailed Zach at the Highway Dept to get an update on the repairs to the damage caused by the accident, causing damage to the fence on the north side. We were advised not to discuss the insurance claim and repairs with Bartlett as to not confuse the situation. We were asked to only discuss our current needs with restoration to the fence and cannons apart from the accident.
III. Records Project- Mike reported that he continues to cross check the data base with what is in the vault. He creates labels for the archival boxes, and anything older that might be jeopardized by having a label attached, will have an index card inside marking the contents. Once we are finished with the vault, Mike reported that we will need to continue to identify historical information stored in the building (our office, basement, etc.) and store it properly. John reported that his son had dropped off some historical information at Hitchcock that needs to be cataloged and stored. We discussed finding a bound volume from 1731 which described the first town meetings, as well as other interesting finds along the way such as an early 20th century slaughtering license.
IV. Newsletter- A discussion was held on putting information on ordering plaques in the next newsletter.
V. Old Business:
A. Facebook page- Mike continues to add old photographs and articles for the community's enjoyment
B. Town Hall- Mike reminded us that there will be two public hearings during which options for the hall will be presented.
C. Emails- Mike reported that he has received emails asking for guidance on the preservation of historic homes. We discussed generating a contractor list to support local efforts with preservation amid home construction projects.
D. Christmas decorations- the garland and lights remain on the poles. This was not a BHC project and it is felt that the town owns the decor and controls the common. Discussed the need for Bob to establish a decorating committee going forward.
E. John inquired about the windmill status. Roseann offered to look into the Catholic Church's suggestion that they donate the windmill to the town. Nothing has been heard on this since the new Bishop came in a few years ago. The prospect seems to have stalled, but Roseann offered to check in with Suzanne C. about the status.
Sue made a motion to adjourn at 7:04 pm and Mike seconded the motion.