HomeMy WebLinkAbout1874-05-07 ad Hoc - Bicentennial Commission Minutes May 7, 1974.
The Reading Bicentennial Commission met at the Library on May 7th.
`Six members were present. Copies of the minutes of the previous regular
meeting and the open meeting of April 4th were distributed, and approved
without corrections.
Mrs. Ebeling stated that she had not yet located a student nominee
for the existing vacancy on the Commission.
Mrs. Miller reported that the 1930 movie has been transferred to the
Library by the Municipal Light Department. Interest was expressed in
obtaining a 1944 movie film thought to be held by Nelson Bates, or a copy
of it.
There was discussion of the failure to receive a Bicentennial grant
and the next steps to be taken. Mrs. Miller contacted the Commission ane
It appears the 3$ selections were made by the staff readers and the
Commission members, according to Dr. McCauley, did not see the applications,
or have a chance to ask questions, but accepted a fait accompli. Dr .
McCauley reported that he cast a nagativa vote. .11so apparently the
decisions were based on criteria differing from those previously indicated.
Additional funds shpuld become available in September, and after
consideration the Commission decided to re-apply for a Parker 'tavern grant.
The Jaycees, through Kenneth Latham, Jr. , asked if the Commission
wished to have an exhibit at the Founders Day program, but lack of advance
notice makes this not feasible.
Forlths 1976 weekend it is suggested the service groups might take
charge of planning, with Dr. Blanchard being asked to provide liaison.
The updating of the Pitkin book, Story of Reading Government, has
')can adopted as an official project of the League of Women Voters.
141s. The Friends of the Library have agreed to underwrite (3100) the
brochure for the Heritage Trail.
An Oral History program was further discussed. The College Club has
voted participation. Jana Blood has expressed an interest. The Friends
ofVthe Library are considering providing a tape recorder for the Library.
Mr. Kelly at the High School was suggested as a good resource person, having
experience with such a program.
It was voted that a primary committee be established to develop an
outline of an Oral History Program to be presented to the Commission for
endorsement. Suggestions for the committee include Jack Kallrj9resource
person, Jane Blood a College Club member,and Ruby Willis to represent the
old-timers. Mrs. Larclay agreed to talk with Miss Willis and Mrs. Miller -:,LL
contact the others.
There has been a query from Joe 3ehmuch about a project of gravestone
rubbings. Permission of the cemetery trustees is required. Peg. Jones is
experienced and would help. The Commission, however, feels there are dangers
in any rubbing project and, since the goal is a visual record of permanent
copies for reference purposes, considers that a combination of photography
and selected rubbings, together with a map and locations, would be more
satisfactory.
Dr.MoGauley displayed a sample house marker set in a narrow black
border which was approved by all.
Mrs. Ebeling will proceed, after the close of school, to secure the
necessary permissions from house owners. Two, at least are reported just
waiting for her (the Stockers at Ash & Avon, and the Theophanis on West 3t. ).
Copy and drawings for the brochure are nearing completion.
1800. It may be possible later to make markers available for houses built to
Talk of a Minuteman Company continues but there are no concrete
developments to date.
The next meeting will be held on June 6, usual timl_yj place.
Eleanor`. Bishop,Secretary