0:28One item at the meeting was the discussion about the archaeological excavation at the Nickerson Homestead, which has been ongoing since 2018. The site, long suspected to be the ancestral homestead of the Nickerson family, has yielded findings that strongly support its historical significance. Artifacts uncovered include an array of 17th-century items like coins, keys, and tools, as well as structural evidence such as a furnace, workshop, and barn. These discoveries are central to the site’s nomination for the National Register of Historic Places.

17:24One commission member reflected on the project’s three-year journey, noting the initial challenges posed by the overgrown state of the property. The member expressed satisfaction with the progress and the commission’s efforts to ensure the site’s historical integrity is preserved.

The discussion also touched on the history of preservation efforts within the Nickerson family properties. A previous project involving the Nickerson’s son’s home on Shell Drive was highlighted, where a barn carbon-dated to the 1700s had been preserved with funding from the Community Preservation Committee. Despite these efforts, some elements like the home’s interior have not been restored.

In further developments, the commission received correspondence from the Cape Cod Commission regarding a development referral for a property on Hallway Street. Although the town will not directly participate in the decision-making process, the commission will be involved in hearings scheduled by the Cape Cod Commission.

Legal and procedural matters were also on the agenda. The commission discussed the need for a legal opinion on historical significance determinations, as documentation is being prepared for submission to the Town Council. The unresolved issue of demolition by neglect was highlighted, with plans for future meetings to address the concern.

The meeting also provided updates on several projects, including the anticipated return of a historic boathouse, projected to progress in the fall of the following year. While there are no current demolition delays, it was noted that permits for demolition and rebuilding on Barclift had been applied for. Additionally, discussions about 1553 Main Street revealed concerns about the aesthetic integration of proposed developments with the existing community. These discussions are set to continue at a planning board meeting scheduled for March 24, where members intend to reiterate their concerns about maintaining the town’s historical streetscape.