Historical Commission

HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEETING March 8, 2018 8:00 a.m. Town Hall 100 Ann Edwards Lane Committee Room, 3rd Floor ****************** MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Gutowski, Chairman; Patrick Morrissey, Vice Chairman; Robert Macdonald, Heidi Schless, Ken Shortridge and William Ray ALSO PRESENT: Mary Julia Royall, Town Historian and Walter Brown, Consultant STAFF PRESENT: Chris Luly, Planner Mr. Gutowski called the meeting to order and welcomed Mayor Will Haynie to the meeting. I. Approval of Minutes Mr. Morrissey stated that in the final section of general discussion, Items of Interest, the first reference to Christ Church should say “Christ Church line”, and mid-paragraph where it shows Dewees and Capers Islands, just prior to that, where it says “fixtures”, it should say “fortifications”. Ms. Schless stated that where the slides are inserted for her QFF presentation, one of the first slides indicates “QFF available on the Town website”, and she said they are not available on the Town website at this time and should read, “available by email”. Mr. Morrissey moved to approve the minutes as amended; seconded by Mr. Shortridge. All present voted in favor.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 2 of 26 II. Public Comment Stephanie Zweben, 3731 Spindrift Drive, stated that she is a resident of the Town and simply wanted to attend this meeting. Mr. Gutowski stated that the Commission is very pleased that Mayor Haynie is present and added that the Commission has some questions. He said he hoped the Mayor enjoyed the Black History Month event he attended that Mr. Walter Brown orchestrated. Mayor Haynie stated that it was a wonderful event and he has castigated the press for not covering an event that is such good news and role models for this community. He stated that it was one of the most moving evenings he has had in his time as a public servant. Mr. Luly stated that the Commission is excited to have the Mayor present to share what this Commission does. He thanked the Mayor for attending. Mr. Gutowski stated that this is his 60th Commission meeting. Mr. Gutowski stated that what prompted the invitation to the Mayor attending was a letter that was sent to the previous Mayor. Mr. Macdonald stated that over the last year and a half the Commission has been concerned with the impact of development on the Settlement Communities here in Mount Pleasant. He said that these communities are a unique resource of the Town and those who live here recognize how unique and important these communities are. He said although not legally part of the Town, they add to the culture of this region, the County and the Town. Last spring the Commission sent a letter to then Mayor Page, requesting that a moratorium be put on zoning variances granted in the Sweetgrass Overlay District until the completion of the Comprehensive Plan. He said there was no response to this letter and a similar letter was sent to Mayor Haynie. The Commission would like to discuss today, how to mitigate the impact on these communities. He said the immediate problem is in the Philips Community with Highway 41 and if this is turned into a four-lane highway, it will decimate this community. He said if the Mayor would drive up Highway 41 and see  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 3 of 26 the impact of widening the right-of way for that highway, it will have an impact into a historic African American community. He said they are hopeful in the discussions concerning the highway, that the community will be represented. He said in the past, the Philips Community was not represented until very recently. He said the larger issue, which the County is doing, is how to develop a plan of overlay districts that would be implemented for each of the communities. He said each community has a different land use problem. He said one of the models being used is the Sol Legare Overlay District on James Island. He said they are very active. He said John Wright is here today, as well, and he is the President of the African American Historic Settlement Community Commission and is moving forward, working with the communities and with the County and with the comprehensive plan here in Mount Pleasant. He said the Historical Commission would like to repeat their request that the Mayor ask that a moratorium be put on zoning variances that impact these communities until a comprehensive plan is completed so that in that plan, this issue is addressed in a way that will benefit not only current citizens of Mount Pleasant, but future generations. He said that this is a unique cultural asset and those who are close to it do not realize how unique it is. He said that he is not a native; however, he is a historian and has been in public history for over 50 years. He asked the Mayor to join the Commission in seeking solutions to a problem that if not addressed, will cause these communities to disappear. He thanked Mayor Haynie and he looks forward to working with the Mayor to address these issues. Mayor Haynie stated that any letter that is supporting a moratorium in Mount Pleasant on any kind of development has his attention and support. He stated that he does not believe he has seen the letter and it could have been in the large amount of correspondence when he first came into office. He said that he will respond to this right away. He stated that he will take this to the Planning Committee of Council and fully recommend this, because it is important. He said we are dealing with several issues, because we do have the Sweetgrass Overlay District for one portion of Mount Pleasant and may need overlay districts for all  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 4 of 26 the settlement communities. He said he would definitely support the moratorium. He said they also need assistance from the County. He stated that developers approach the Town and want to develop property in the County and offer to come into the Town. He said that Mount Pleasant Waterworks cannot extend services unless it is contiguous. He said there is property currently in the County that may not be within the metes and bounds of one of the cultural communities, but it is certainly within what the community recognizes to be in their community. He said the property is in the County and he is very concerned about this and he would like this not to happen. He said that the Town needs to work with the County to obtain their support, because many of the communities Mr. Macdonald is referring to are in donut holes. He said the Town has no jurisdiction although the Town’s comprehensive plan does incorporate them. He said the Philips Community and Highway 41 represents a different challenge. He has discussed this at the public forums that have been held. He said it is a unique situation, as Highway 41 is a State road, is County funded, and located in the Town’s limits. He stated that the Town of Mount Pleasant has the least amount of influence on the building of this road. He stated that he spoke with Senator Grooms and with what is currently being built in Berkeley County, which is estimated to be 18,000 homes in Cainhoy Plantation, they will all be traveling down Highway 41. He stated that Berkeley County should be providing assistance for this road. He assured the Commission that he would be responding to the letter they sent, as well as supporting the moratorium. He advised that he would take this to the Planning Committee of Council. He stated that he would like to shore up what is being done with the County so that the County is on board with what the Town is doing to protect our cultural communities. Mr. Luly stated that he would ensure the Mayor received another copy of the letter sent by the Historical Commission.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 5 of 26 Mr. Macdonald thanked Mayor Haynie for his comments and asked him to call on the Commission when they are able to assist in pushing forward that agenda. John Wright, 145 Rose Lane, thanked the Commission for presenting the moratorium that was discussed regarding the settlement communities. He stated that we are all aware that these settlement communities are unique and a significant part of Mount Pleasant. He stated that the African American Historical Settlement Commission (AAHSC) is working closely with Charleston County. He asked Charleston County not to look at the donut holes as “step-children”, because the AAHSC is going to advocate for them to ensure there is a link between Charleston County’s Comprehensive Plan and the Town’s. He said that the AAHSC has worked with the County on the Sol Legare Overlay District, as well as the Parkers Ferry community and are currently working with the Maryville community on some of their overlay districts that they are attempting to put in place. He said they are not only working with Mount Pleasant, but also outside of the Town. He said that they have selected the Philips Community as a priority for the first six months of this year, due to the widening of Highway 41 project. He stated that they will make a recommendation to the Department of Transportation and the Corps of Engineers that the Philips Community made a concession approximately 20 years ago that they would accept three lanes. He said that what they are asking now is long-term, they would agree to four lanes, but 50 feet north and 50 feet south of the Philips Community will remain three lanes which is less than one mile. He stated that this is what will be presented to the Corps of Engineers. He stated that they are no longer discussing the problem, but a solution that will benefit the community. He stated that the AAHSC is attempting to work as a layer between the local governments (Town of Mount Pleasant, Charleston County, Council of Governments, Waterworks), and the various communities; however, they are not the community leaders and are advocates for those communities.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 6 of 26 III. Staff Update Mr. Luly stated that he has been working with Ms. Schless on the budget, which he has distributed to Commission members. He said that he was advised that the logo needs approval. He said there were mixed feelings about the logo and if the Commission would like to proceed with utilizing the logo, he will talk to Administration about the use of the logo. He asked if the Commission would like for him to address the logo with the Town’s Administration and have it officially approved. Ms. Schless stated that some Commission members had mixed feelings about the logo and her own opinion is that the colors do not match well with the Town’s logo. She added that from a visual perspective, it appears to be very pale. She said it captures the information but does not feel it is a good representation for the Commission. Mr. Macdonald agreed with Ms. Schless’ comment. Mr. Gutowski stated that the use of the logo will be tabled until the Commission has an opportunity to explore other options. Ms. Schless said options would be to improve upon the current logo or abandon the logo and continue using the Town’s logo. Mr. Luly stated that the third option would be to continue using it as is. John Wright, stated that he likes the logo, because it provides separation and may draw the attention of other historians. Ms. Schless stated that the Commission is “the Town”. Mr. Wright stated that he understands that the Commission is part of the Town; however, it provides a separate element. Ms. Schless stated that the colors are pale and suggested that the Commission could possibly improve upon the color and make it more vivid. Mr. Macdonald stated that the Town’s logo is very attractive. He stated that the last time the new logo was discussed, he was under the  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 7 of 26 impression that the Commission was not satisfied with what was produced. Mr. Macdonald moved to table the logo until the Commission has further discussions on how to better use the Town’s logo in the work the Commission does; seconded by Mr. Shortridge. Ms. Schless stated that this is the responsibility of the Communications area, since this is where it was initially handled. Mr. Morrissey stated that what he would propose is for Mr. Luly to find out what the approval process is and the Commission may then look at amending the logo. He stated that he is not in favor of the logo as a stand-alone symbol and feels it should always be in conjunction with the Town. He stated that if there was letterhead for the Commission, the Town logo would also be present with the Historical Commission logo on the side or below. He said the logo has the three primary colors in the Town logo and moving forward, that we look at the color schemes on the Historical Commission proposed logo and make the tree match the tree and use the border as either the bridge or the gold ribbon so that they look consistent. He said they should always be put in context with one another so the Commission does not appear as a separate entity. He added that the Commission gains credence by being associated with the Town. Mr. Morrissey was opposed. All others present voted in favor. Motion carries. IV. Consideration of Black History Month Cost Reimbursement Mr. Luly stated that this will also be discussed under Ms. Schless’ Committee report on the budget; however, the check for the Plantation Singers has been sent which was the last outstanding honorarium. He stated that he will now request consideration for reimbursement of a Black History Month expense. He stated that there is a $65.40 cost for mugs that were given to the Generals that he would like the Commission to consider.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 8 of 26 Mr. Walter Brown stated that there were four mugs that were all personalized for the Generals and the Rear Admiral that spoke during Black History Month. He stated that there are still funds remaining in the Black History Month budget. Mr. Macdonald moved to approve the $65.40 to pay for the four personalized mugs; seconded by Mr. Ray. All present voted in favor. Ms. Schless stated that Black History Month came in $900 less than budgeted this year. She stated that the Commission has had a really good trend managing the budget for Black History Month. Mr. Gutowski stated that the credit should be given to Mr. Walter Brown, as he always garners support from the churches, as well as the parishioners to support this program. He thanked Mr. Brown for his support. John Wright, stated that in reference to Black History Month, he would like to suggest that there be some collaboration between the Historical Commission and the African American Historical Settlement Commission for next year’s events. He stated that 7:00 p.m. on a Saturday evening is not very conducive to bringing people together for a Black History Month event. He said Wando High School and the Snowden Community both put on events and they involved the youth. He said Black History Month events should involve and include the youth so that they can continue to promote this event. He said without the youth, it will steadily decline. He stated that he would like the Historical Commission to consider including the AAHSC in some of the decisions as it relates to Black History Month. He stated that he would love to be involved. Mr. Shortridge stated that approximately half of the budget goes towards Black History Month and currently in the Town, there is a wonderful asset in the Sweetgrass Basket Festival, which is 100% identifiable with the Black Community. He stated that they do a wonderful job of promoting that event and the Town provides the resources to promote this event. He asked why this Historical  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 9 of 26 Commission, who is documenting the history and using their assets for this, spending half of our budget for entertainment purposes, when we could use an ongoing resource that we already have in the Town. Mr. Gutowski introduced Marc Epstein, who recently contacted Mr. Luly last month regarding a tape that Martin Luther King, Jr., made over 60 years ago. Mr. Epstein has been working with the County of Charleston. Mr. Epstein stated that he is a retired educator and stated that it was a great month this year for Charleston County Schools. He stated that what he came across in Massachusetts, became a world-wide story. It was broadcasted in Los Angeles, Israel ran it in their Daily Times, and a program was put on in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He stated that it originated out of Worcester, Massachusetts where in 1961 a Rabbi invited Martin Luther King to speak at Temple Emmanuel, where he was a member. He stated that the local radio station broadcasted it live and a week later, the Rabbi was provided with the reels of tape. He said they were misplaced and after his passing in the late 1980’s, his granddaughter discovered them, but was unaware of what they were. He said once the family listened to the tapes in the late 1990’s they brought them to Northwestern University where they were put in digital format. He stated that it was 90 minutes in length. He stated that during the last weekend of this year’s Black History Month, two local radio stations in Worcester, Massachusetts broadcasted this at different times. He said the public school system along with Charleston County Schools both inserted this into their curriculum. He stated that Martin Luther King speaks for approximately 70 minutes where he outlines his entire civil rights movement goals. He stated that after that speech, Rabbi Kline mediates a question and answer period that is unlike any other tape that may be available to the public. He said he answers questions for approximately 35 to 40 minutes. He said it was amazing as Martin Luther King discusses what he is going to attempt to accomplish. He stated that President Kennedy had just been elected six weeks earlier. He said the tape was recorded on March 12, 1961 and Martin  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 10 of 26 Luther King keeps referring to President Kennedy as Senator Kennedy, correcting himself frequently. He stated that the Kline family wants to distribute this tape free of charge for public educational purposes. He stated that he was with a family in Summerville who has historical archives of a tape that Dr. King did when he came to South Carolina in 1967. He said it does not compare to the tape that he has from the Kline family. He stated that the family in Summerville wants hundreds of thousands of dollars for their tape. He stated that they will not find a buyer for that tape as long as the Kline family is offering their tape free of charge, which is far superior. Mr. Gutowski stated that this could be a wonderful event for Black History Month if they are able to secure a suitable location, such as St. Andrews Church. He stated that he would like to review how to go about presenting this. Mr. Epstein stated that there is an eighty-page transcript that will be sent to him. He stated that it was transcribed and they are not currently able to locate it. He said that the family is attempting to locate it for him and if they do, the question and answer period alone will probably be best. He said he would suggest playing the first 70 minutes of the tape, because it is an outline of what Martin Luther King has accomplished and what he is planning to accomplish. Mr. Gutowski stated that he wanted Mr. Epstein to come to this meeting so that the Commission could think about this being a possibility next year for Black History Month. Ms. Schless asked if the tape can be reviewed beforehand. Mr. Epstein responded in the affirmative and said it was available on Sound Cloud. He stated that he would provide his information and the link. He said that if someone knows how to convert this, they will be able to get it into several other school districts, such as Berkeley County. He said that he does not know how to convert it. Mr. Brown stated that Charleston County has a director of Communication and said that they will be able to convert it.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 11 of 26 Mr. Epstein stated that he works closely with Representative Wendell Gilliard on different projects and Representative Gilliard was able to have Martin Luther King’s family at the press conference when he presented this recorded speech approximately 4 or 5 weeks ago at Saffron’s Deli. V. Committee Reports Ms. Schless stated that she will be covering the Budget, Action Plan and Quick Fact Fridays. BUDGET Ms. Schless stated that she worked with Mr. Luly on the budget, and Commission members should have an updated copy. She stated that the Commission has only spent approximately $6,800 of the $10,000 annual budget, leaving a balance of $3,200 which is largely from Black History Month coming in under budget, as well as not spending any funding on Oral History, which Mr. Shortridge will speak about. She stated that there is $1,200 allocated for Oral Histories because the Commission assumed it was being incurred; however, it was not. She said that the Commission has committed for this year $1,300 for expanded social media presence and other new communication tools, such as the rack cards. She said she would like to propose that the Commission spend some of this funding this year on rack cards since it has been allocated, but not executed. She said that she and Mr. Ray are working on this currently. She stated that any other allocations should be addressed at this time. Mr. Gutowski stated that the fiscal year ends on June 30th; however, the Commission cannot allocate anything after June 1st, so if any funding needs to be spent, it needs to be done prior to June 1st. Mr. Macdonald asked if the ordering of the Cresco award needs to be placed prior to June 1st in order to encumber those funds. Mr. Luly stated that the last award came out of this fiscal year’s budget so the award that will be presented in December will come out of next fiscal year’s budget.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 12 of 26 Ms. Schless stated that the budget she is reviewing has two columns for Fiscal Year 2017/2018 which is, what was budgeted and what has been incurred so far. Mr. Luly stated that there are some minor increases where tax was charged on the Cresco award and on the website. Ms. Schless stated that she was unaware of what was decided upon on the Edmund Jenkins plaque. Under the Historical Market section, she has it highlighted. She asked if there was a financial commitment for this project. Mr. Morrissey stated that the Commission does not have a financial commitment. He stated that the Chief of Police was supportive of naming the building in the Old Village as the Edmund Jenkins Substation, but was not able to allocate any funding for any of the commemoration, whether it be signage, plaque or photograph. He said he advocated for more of a photograph or painting; however, the only photograph available is not of good quality. He stated that if it is possible to have this project accomplished during this time period, he will work with vendors to see if the photograph we do have can be enlarged and framed, and he will bring back an estimate for the cost. He stated that the previous discussion was that this particular area of the Old Village was being populated with historic markers and another marker was not desirable. He stated that if the Commission desires, he will investigate the cost for having a framed photograph of Mr. Jenkins, possibly with an explanatory piece next to it, which can be proposed to the Town. Mr. Gutowski asked if Mr. Morrissey is envisioning something similar to what is displayed in the Town Hall lobby. Mr. Morrissey stated that for the photograph, no, but for the explanation, yes, something similar. He asked Mr. Luly to provide him with the vendor information of the displays in the lobby and he will approach them regarding this project.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 13 of 26 Mr. Gutowski stated that this would be consistent with what the Town displays. Ms. Schless stated that to finalize the budget, she would like for the Commission to address spending that could still be made on oral histories, rack cards, and possibly some funding for acquisition or repairs of archives. Mr. Morrissey stated that he was going to propose that the remaining funding be added to the preservation of the historic volumes of Council minutes held by the Town Clerk. Ms. Schless stated that these are three good ways of allocating the remaining budget. She stated that the dollar amounts will need to be reconciled. She stated that she cannot provide a quote or estimate on the rack cards at this time, because she is proposing to have a doubled sided rack card, as well as artwork. She said she will be working on drafting what will be featured on the card and asked that Mr. Ray and Mr. Luly would work on estimates. Mr. Gutowski stated that several years ago for Black History Month, there were two-sided rack cards and asked if Mr. Luly would find out the estimated cost at that time. Mr. Luly stated that he will look for previous pricing. Ms. Schless asked Mr. Luly to provide the information to Mr. Ray and she will work with him on the content. She asked Mr. Shortridge to provide what may be required for the oral history aspect. She stated that no more than $1,300 is available for the rack cards. Mr. Luly stated that $830 has been encumbered for the restoration of the historical Council minute books. He followed up last week and was told they would be completed and billed prior to the end of the fiscal year. He stated that this was just for the one book the Commission voted to have restored. Mr. Gutowski asked about estimates for the April meeting for other books needing restoration.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 14 of 26 Mr. Morrissey said of the books available for restoration, there was a listing of those most in need of repair. He stated that he did not believe it was just for one volume, but for one set. Mr. Luly stated that it was for a certain time range and there is a listing of estimates. Mr. Morrissey stated that there was a priority list according to the volumes most in need of restoration. Mr. Luly stated that he has the Library Society’s recommendation. He provided Mr. Morrissey with the treatment proposal that the Library Society recommended. Mr. Morrissey stated that this is the paper that was circulated among Commission members and the Commissions voted on the best restoration option. He said that he will review the records, because he believes the minute books were ranked in order. He said depending on how the budget comes out, Commission members may vote at the next meeting. He stated that the funds may be encumbered, although the work may not be complete. He asked if this would be acceptable with the Town to pre-pay and the second payment will come in the next fiscal year. He stated that it was $1,230 for the work they are doing this year and $830 has already been encumbered. Ms. Schless stated that the other $400 was for the Abby Munro papers so the total is what has been encumbered. She stated that since there are available funds from the Black History Month account, some funds could be allocated from there. Mr. Morrissey stated that he will review the records and select the documents that were put in ranked order and will circulate via email and hold the next volume aside if the oral history and rack card funding allows this to be accomplished. Mr. Gutowski asked Mr. Luly if the work has to be completed in order to be paid by the Town. Mr. Luly stated that he will look into this.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 15 of 26 Mr. Morrissey stated that he misunderstood Mr. Luly when he indicated that $830 was encumbered with $400 still pending. He said he did not realize that the $400 was the Abby Munro papers. He stated that they have not delivered the end product to us, but it has appeared in this current year’s budget already. He stated that the Commission can pay a bill for something that gets delivered at a later date. QUICK FACT FRIDAYS Ms. Schless provided Commission members with a draft strategy for how to grow the readership of QFF and would like the Commission’s comments, via email, on other ideas or what may have been missed. She said it is by target market what approaches the Commission should have and where we stand. She said she developed this by market segment, such as adults, seniors, youth and visitors and how to increase readership. She stated that she is going to make an extra strong request on her behalf, as well as Mr. Luly’s, that it has become common practice to obtain the QFF drafts late, and with their existing workloads, it is becoming increasingly more difficult for them to finalize them. She asked that Commission members please get the drafts to her and Mr. Luly two weeks in advance. She said the QFF should be developed from our own Town resources on the Our History pages and what is available on the Mount Pleasant Historical.org website. She stated that Commission members should not be using Wikepedia. ACTION PLAN Ms. Schless stated that she has received the information from most all Commission members on the Action Plan and said that once everyone has provided their input, she will circulate it prior to the next meeting. She met with Mr. Ray this week to discuss the Communications and it is clear that when the 7th member comes on board, that two people be assigned to do the communications portion for the Commission. She said that there is so much to do in order to bring awareness in the other areas that the Commission is mandated to accomplish.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 16 of 26 HISTORICAL MARKERS Mr. Shortridge mentioned that some of the historical markers around the Town are looking very dirty and asked if the Town is able to do anything to clean them. Mr. Luly stated that he will reach out to Public Services and check on it. Mr. Shortridge stated that the Green Hill marker on Mathis Ferry Road is really dirty. ORAL HISTORY Mr. Shortridge said the oral histories have been struggling over the past few years and what was done in the past was to contract someone to conduct the oral histories. He said this went back to the 1980’s when technology was very poor. He stated that for the past couple of years, the Commission contracted with an outside agency and due to some concerns, these oral histories were never completed. He said that since there is some funding in the budget, he would like to propose some ideas. He said he has had discussions with professors at The Citadel who have an oral history program and are part of the Oral History Consortium, and provided Mr. Shortridge with some names of individuals. He contacted one who is a retired naval officer and an adjunct professor at The Citadel who has been doing oral histories for The Citadel. He said this gentleman provided him with a proposal, along with his resume and accomplishments in the past and what the cost would be for him to do oral histories. Mr. Shortridge provided Commission members with this information to indicate how complicated and sophisticated oral histories can be. He stated that we are in a digital era which allow us to utilize new types of equipment. He stated that there is not just the interview portion, but also the transcription portion. He said that the Commission would not necessarily contract all the items indicated but would use an interviewer. He indicated that most oral history interviewers utilize the equipment at their organization. He said that the Town does not have their own equipment; however, a list of the equipment specifications  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 17 of 26 was provided. He stated that the cost would be approximately $1,300 and the Town has IT personnel that could help with the equipment. He stated that there is funding in the Commission’s budget and a room where this equipment can be stored. He said when you are conducting an oral history, most of them do not have to be at the person’s home, but possibly here at the Town. He stated that they could get the oral histories done. He said this is an opportunity for the Commission between now and the end of the year to utilize the excess funding and purchase the equipment. He stated that he could then begin to contract with Larry Grant or other interviewers to do the oral histories. He stated that as far as the remaining work, such as transcription, interns can be utilized. He said as long as the recording is complete, it can then be transcribed. He believes this is the direction the Commission should take. He said if we continue to wait too long, we will lose those people and all the history will go with them. He proposed that the Commission investigate purchasing the equipment necessary and then carry forth next year, funding for an interviewer to utilize the equipment to conduct the oral histories. Mr. Brown stated that the Assistant Director of Avery, Deborah Wright is not retired. He stated that she lives in the area and has her own equipment and time. He said that she is very capable of doing the oral histories. He has approached her unofficially, and she is willing to meet with Mr. Shortridge and conduct some of the interviews while awaiting a decision to purchase equipment. He stated that she is also doing projects for the Avery Institute of Afro American History and Culture. Mr. Shortridge stated that the funding is available now and if the Commission spends this funding on oral histories that Ms. Wright conducts, then the equipment cannot be purchased until next year’s budget. Mr. Brown stated that Ms. Wright will use the equipment that is at Avery and Addlestone, which is top of the line equipment. He stated that this is just an option for consideration to accomplish some of the oral histories now.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 18 of 26 Discussion ensued with Commission members regarding oral histories, recording equipment and transcription. Mr. Gutowski asked if Mr. Luly would contact the Town’s IT department to work with Mr. Shortridge on the process and what type of equipment is required for oral histories. Mr. Luly stated that he will need to first request this from his immediate supervisor prior to approaching the IT department. Mr. Gutowski stated that he would like to have a response by the April meeting, as well as the process by which to acquire a capital item. Mr. Shortridge stated that he believes if the amount is under a certain dollar amount, it does not have to go out for bid. Mr. Luly stated that in the past, the Town has mentioned that the Commission’s budget could be allocated to kiosks and other items for the History Room. He does not see a reason why the recording equipment for oral histories cannot be considered, as well. However, he will check with his immediate supervisor. Ms. Schless stated that this could also be a great part-time use of the history room to conduct recorded oral history interviews and have it known in the community that the Commission is conducting them at Town Hall in the History Room. Stephanie Zweben, stated that she just recently attended a lecture by the Historian at the USS Yorktown and they are very involved in collecting oral histories of military personnel and one of the key topics of the speaker’s remarks was how complex technically this whole process is and how the speaker had spent the last 18 to 24 months working on the technical aspects of collecting the oral histories and what was involved in the process. She suggested contacting the historian at the Yorktown who has very recent hands on experience with getting a process such as this going. Mr. Macdonald stated that he is currently doing an oral history project at Mepkin Abbey for the brothers. He stated that some of the brothers  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 19 of 26 have been there for over 50 years and are capturing their memories of the founding of that institution and each session is approximately one hour. He stated that he has conducted oral histories in the past. He stated that his equipment for doing oral histories is his mobile cellular telephone. He stated that he has an App and it records the oral history and then uploads them to two services online and through voice recognition will transcribe the oral history for 10¢ per minute, so it is approximately $6 or $7 to get a transcript back, which will still require editing. He stated that oral histories are not difficult, and the simple equipment exists in a mobile cellular phone. He stated that he believes the Commission is over-thinking this and if there is someone such as Deborah Wright, who is experienced in conducting oral histories, the Commission should contract her. He said that if she has a mobile device, she can download the App and use her cellular telephone. He stated that this is a much simpler way to conduct oral histories. He stated that this is only a suggestion. SETTLEMENT COMMUNITIES Mr. Macdonald stated that the Commission’s relationship with the African American Historical Settlement Commission is growing. He said he recently had discussions with Ms. Stokes-Marshall and she brought up the old school house on Long Point Road, which was discussed approximately one and a half years ago. He said he contacted the realtor and never received a clear answer about the schoolhouse. He said the property was purchased by a company that wanted to develop assisted living. He stated that when talking to Ms. Stokes-Marshall, he discovered that she attended that school until the 3rd grade. He stated that the schoolhouse was built in 1921 and there has been some discussion of possibly moving the building to Snowden as a community center. He said that he is going to be working with Ms. Stokes-Marshall to see what can be done to preserve the last segregated school building in Mount Pleasant. He said he is hopeful the Commission is able to save that building and find a good use for it in Snowden where most of the  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 20 of 26 students that attended that school, came from. He said that he will keep the Commission updated. Mr. Gutowski suggested that Mr. Macdonald and Ms. Stokes-Marshall touch base with Michael Robertson regarding the circumstances surrounding that school house. Mr. Luly stated that the first developer that had plans for that property was interested in trying to move the school; however, nothing happened. Ms. Schless stated that Mr. Robertson mentioned at that meeting for the Commission to review creating a more formalized way to address this type of issue as they come up in the future, not just for this school, but for other potential buildings or other assets. She suggested that the Commission recommend and introduce a procedure. Mr. Ray asked where the school would move to. Mr. Wright stated that there were some conversations regarding the schoolhouse and the goal was to put the school where the Snowden Community Center property is located. He said there is approximately eight acres of land and this is where the community gathers. Mr. Ray stated that this is in the County. Mr. Brown stated that when he was Chairman of the Historical Commission, they thought that this was a Rosenwald School. He said there is a Rosenwald School in Mount Pleasant, but it is a residence. He said if you travel up Highway 17 North, on the left, there is a yellow house, which is a Rosenwald School. He said the school they are referring to on Long Point Road was built by Moultrie School District prior to consolidation. He said the previous owner of this property was Reverend Holmes and he recently passed away. He said that his children are still living but is not certain who owns the property now. He said the Town did erect a marker where the Rosenwald School is located on US 17 North; however, the property owner was not notified, so it was removed. He said that Mr. Michael Robertson would have more information on what transpired, as he was the staff liaison at that time.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 21 of 26 COMMUNICATIONS Mr. Ray stated that he and Ms. Schless did meet to discuss the importance of the Communications element. He stated that he is still learning what needs to be done. He said that he is still working on how to better inform the public on the Historical Commission. He said that it will take some time for him to learn, as well as a great deal of work. He said that a new member of the Commission will be coming on in April and will assist with the Communications element. He stated that he attended a meeting at Laing Middle School last night and discussed with them the Quick Fact Fridays (QFF’s), to ensure it is available for the Laing students to increase readership. Mr. Gutowski stated that the Commission proposed this at Cario Middle School and the two teachers that attended with their 8th grade classrooms, said that they would encourage their students and parents to sign up to receive QFF’s. Mr. Ray stated that his child attends Laing Middle School and said he would like to try and generate interest there. Mr. Gutowski stated that the Commission was very well received by Laing Middle School last year when a Commission meeting was held at the School. He said that the entire 8th grade was in attendance. Mr. Ray stated that in reference to the App he will be working with Mr. Luly. Ms. Schless stated that she advised Mr. Ray that with the App, the Commission is paying Cleveland State $1,600 a year to maintain it. She said the intent was for the Commission to provide them with more content in order to populate it, improve upon it and make it more interesting. She said this has not been accomplished over the past few years. She stated that this needs some real focus on the Communications side. She stated that she has not looked at the App recently to see how many downloads there have been, but when she  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 22 of 26 looked previously, there was definitely room to grow, as the number was small. She suggested that Mr. Ray connect with Cleveland State and work with Mr. Luly on how this works. Mr. Morrissey asked what the number of downloads was from the App when Ms. Schless last checked. Ms. Schless stated that it was approximately 18 months ago, and the App only had 20 or so downloads, which is very low. She said on Google Play, you cannot see this information. She said there is also the basic website which is the core of this App. She said that the Town’s website has changed again, but on the first page of “Our History” the link at the bottom that should take you to the Mount Pleasant Historical Website, is still going to the Battleground Trust Civil War map which is the item above. She stated that this link has still not been fixed. She stated that she is still in the process of printing out all the pages that relate to the Commission from the Town’s website in order to edit them and then give one master set to Mr. Luly to give to the appropriate individual to fix these items. John Wright, stated that the Cresco Award information also needs to be updated. Mr. Ray stated that he needs to have discussions with Mr. Luly in order to obtain more information, he would be very appreciative. ARCHIVE ROOM Mr. Morrissey stated that at the last meeting he reported that the Purchasing Department had put out a consolidated order for furniture and fittings that were supposed to include the Archive Room. He said nothing has arrived and he will check with Purchasing to see if any progress has been made. CHRIST CHURCH LINE Mr. Morrissey stated that he attended both the Long Point Extension Planning Commission meeting that had a display and the Hungryneck to Billy Swails Connector. He said both of these go around or disturb the  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 23 of 26 Christ Church Line. He said the Long Point Extension is further along in planning and that line is respectful to the Christ Church Line, other than the area that has already been agreed to with the South Carolina Battlefield Trust and SHIPO (State Historic Preservation Office), to be disturbed at the intersection of US 17, but after that the road follows along the Christ Church Line at Christ Church and is envisioning a sidewalk on both sides of the road or maybe only on one side. He said it would be more of a main pedestrian thoroughfare that is treelined and wide. He said that the road breaks from the Christ Church Line in the area farther down. On the Long Point Extension is the new Mount Pleasant Park and the best indicator he saw that the Commission’s lobbying efforts are having an effect, is that the map for the new Mount Pleasant Park actually shows a Christ Church Line trail that goes along the park from just north of Rifle Range Road and through the northern boundary of that park. On the Hamlin Road/Billy Swails connection, that road has not even been plotted and is just a proposal within the area that the footprint may land, but they are aware of the Christ Church Line and hopefully the Commission will continue to mention it to them as they proceed with their plan. He thought it was hopeful that the Christ Church Trail is now appearing on Town Planning documents. Mr. Gutowski stated that he has been attempting to contact Doug Bostic and asked if the Town still has a relationship with him. Mr. Luly stated that he has not heard from or spoken to Mr. Bostic in a very long time. He said that he is not aware of any contractual relationship with Mr. Bostic and the Town. Ms. Schless asked if he was under contract for the Primus Tract. Mr. Luly stated that if so, his contract would not be with the Town, but with the developer. Mr. Luly stated that there is a staff member in the Planning Department who manages the conditions of all the projects, specifically the Primus Tract. He has had discussions with the staffer in charge regarding the markers that are required there and the Commission’s involvement with the approval process of those markers. He stated that he will follow up with the staffer.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 24 of 26 Ms. Schless asked if the staff person designated to the Primus Tract project is able to reach out to Doug Bostic. Mr. Luly stated that he will also attempt to reach out to Doug Bostic and will also follow up on the status of the developer’s list of conditions. VI. General Discussion – Items of Interest Ms. Schless stated that another item Mr. Bostic offered when giving his presentation previously, was to provide to the Commission something to put on display in the history room related to his work. Mr. Morrissey stated that part of his work was for Lempriere’s Point fortifications. He stated that Mr. Bostic was going to have a 3-D model of this, which was identified as something that the Historical Commission would like to possess for the Archive Room and that had been communicated to Mr. Bostic the last time he appeared before the Commission last year. Ms. Schless asked that since Josh Kelley is no longer a Commission member, who will be covering the Planning Commission meetings, in the event items appear that the Commission should be following. Mr. Gutowski stated that this can be done on a rotating basis. He said it was only a matter of attending the meeting and trying to understand if there is any historical significance to dealing with the properties that are being proposed to the Planning Commission. He said they meet every third Wednesday of each month. John Wright, stated that they also intend to have someone from their Commission attend those meeting, as well as go out and look at those properties that may be impacted. He stated that they would like to share their findings with the Commission. Mr. Morrissey asked if the Planning Commission’s schedule was similar to the Historical Commission. Mr. Gutowski stated that their meeting is on the third Wednesday and they have five members.  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 25 of 26 Mr. Morrissey suggested a rotating basis for Commission members to attend and when the pre-notice is released as to what properties are being considered, the Commission members will then select who will attend that meeting and then report back to the Commission. Ms. Schless stated that these meetings are lengthy and wondered if there was a better way to do this. Mr. Morrissey stated that he would propose in the meantime to try and have monthly coverage that is assigned on a rotating basis and as more gain exposure to the meetings, Commission members can then come up with a plan on how to approach it. He stated that in the short term, to have a Commission member cover the meetings on a rotating basis. Walter Brown, stated that he is the liaison for the Avery Institute of Afro American History and Culture. He stated that he was thinking about Dr. Fannie Ella Hicklin who is the last surviving teacher from Avery High School. He said that he called her, and you would never know she is 99 years old. She retired from the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater. He said that he and members of Avery Institute will be traveling to Madison, Wisconsin to interview her. He said there are five remaining high school teachers that are alive from Laing High School. He said that this might be a project for the Laing students to interview these individuals while they are alive and have stories that should be told. He said one has dementia, but the other four are sharp. He said this is something the Commission may want to think about. He said that the Commission can interview these individuals, because Avery came online in 1865 and Laing in 1866. He is confident these four individuals have a wealth of history. He told the story of how Laing High School was able to get a football field. He said five black men, who called themselves the “Five Black Brothers” approached the superintendent, Mr. Hutchinson and raised the funds for the lighting of that football field. He said prior to that, the Black School had to play all their games during the day, because there was no lighting and Moultrie School District would not provide the funds. He said there is one gentleman from that group who is still living and every day he is at the Senior  Historical Commission March 8, 2018 Page 26 of 26 Center. He is now 97 years old. He said Mr. Morrissey may be interested in this since he worked with the Laing Alumni. He said he read in the paper where the students at Laing Middle School had a luncheon for the Laing Alumni. Mr. Morrissey asked Mr. Brown if he was able to recall the names of the five remaining high school teachers. Mr. Brown stated that he will forward that information to Mr. Morrissey. Mr. Morrissey stated that he would like to have that on the record. Mr. Gutowski reminded Commission members that next week, the 14th, is the Historical Mount Pleasant presentation at the Senior Center. He stated that he noticed in the QFF that non-members of the Senior Center will be required to pay $5.00. Mr. Luly stated that he would like to remind Commission members that more than three Commission members are not allowed at that presentation, as a matter of quorum. VII. Adjourn Mr. Macdonald moved to adjourn; seconded by Mr. Shortridge. All present voted in favor. There being no further business, meeting adjourned at 9:44 a.m. Respectfully submitted, Barbara Ashe March 8, 2018