Dayton Historical Society
February 11, 2003
The February 11th meeting of the Dayton Historical Society was called to order by President Andy Cole at 6:40 PM. Eleven members were in attendance. The Secretary and Treasurer’s reports were read and accepted, with the bank balance currently at $3228.70. Two new members joined, bringing the total membership to 36.
Under old business, Andy agreed to look in the former schoolhouse that is now located at Dayton Sand and Gravel to see if there are any useable fixtures remaining. Alan Mullet suggested that there may be schoolhouse furniture in the Town Garage and Andy agreed to look there too.
Valerie has completed a membership form that can be placed in local businesses and at the Town Hall, and Alan suggested that it be included in the Town Report.
The Society is still awaiting a quote from Jeremy Berube to repair the foundation and Andy agreed to contact him. He also agreed to obtain a cane to be presented to the oldest Dayton citizen at Town meeting.
Virginia Proctor has done some research regarding the Town’s cemetery fund. At this time it appears that the fund is dedicated only to the Caroll-Goodwin Cemetery on Hight Road, and that only the interest from the current year can be used for upkeep. The principle amount in this fund is believed to be $1500.
Under new business, members discussed going before the Board of Selectman to request that an article be placed in the Town Report. This would request the sum of $10,000 to be used for repairing the Franklin Schoolhouse. The general feeling among those present was that we may not get the entire amount, but hopefully would get some money. The next meeting of Selectmen is scheduled for February 24th. Members were urged to attend the Town meeting to show support for the proposed article.
Member Martha Stanton donated a box of old books to the Historical Society, and new member Debbie Wooley spoke about the use of an ascession form when receiving donations of items or money. This is a legal form used by many historical groups to inventory their artifacts and prove ownership. She agreed to provide us with a copy of the form used by the Bridgeton Historical Society.
In the interest of promoting local history, members came up with several ideas to create more interest within the town and hopefully increase membership. Jerry Guiney suggested that we hold field trips to places of local interest, such as Boiling Spring and the sites of the former Union Falls Bridge and Claybrook School. Andy suggested reading some local history at each meeting and inviting in people to give presentations. Debbie informed us that Earle Shuttleworth of the Maine Historical Preservation Commission would give talks and slideshows at meetings for no charge. She also told us that the Third Maine Regiment, located in Westbrook, would do Civil War reenactments.
Members voted to set up a petty cash fund in the amount of $40.00 to use as needed for postage and other small expenditures. The Secretary currently holds this.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:30. Meetings will now be held on the last Tuesday of every month through October, with the next one scheduled for March 25th, 6:30 PM at the Harris Farm Ski Hut.
Respectfully submitted,
Valerie Cole, Secretary
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