0:02The Winslow Davis House Museum, built in 1770, was a focal point during the meeting. The Dighton Historical Society had submitted an application for eligibility to the Community Preservation Committee for funding to finance necessary repairs to this historic site. Discussion revealed that a previous review in 2016 had not officially recognized the property as locally significant, which led to the Commission’s decision to rectify this oversight. Detailed historical context was provided, highlighting the house’s construction by Joob Winslow and its ties to the Revolutionary War through the Winslow family’s involvement. The house’s architectural integrity was emphasized, with original windows and flooring still intact, and paneling believed to have been part of the Underground Railroad.

Anecdotes from the house’s history were shared, such as a housekeeper’s encounter with a tax-evading man. With these narratives in mind, the chair moved to declare the Winslow Davis House Museum as locally significant, a motion that was seconded and unanimously approved.

17:41Attention then shifted to the Commission’s broader preservation efforts, including potential interviews with local individuals to gather historical perspectives. The idea of recording these interviews was discussed, aiming for a series of discussions with individuals like Nancy Schart, known for extensive local knowledge. A younger community member, Greg, was also suggested as a potential interview subject about lesser-known areas of Dighton.

Progress on the walking tour project was noted, with one member possessing a substantial collection of images to aid the initiative. The Commission is also grappling with pending applications for historical markers, expressing concern over a lack of updates from Jacqueline Matchim and the status of applications related to monuments in North Dighton.

The Commission is involved in the Mount Hope Finishing Company National Register nomination, addressing inquiries from Joshua Glass of Di Trust about the historical significance of certain properties. Detailed discussions about mapping and property relationships were held to ensure accurate historical district classifications.

Library renovations were reported to be advancing, with electrical and plumbing work underway and a completion target of fall 2025.

Preparations for the Americaus 250th Anniversary celebrations were a significant topic, with fundraising efforts set to commence on March 1st. A presentation on Ezra Styles is scheduled for June 14th, with additional community events planned for July 4th. The initiative to reenact the Dighton town meeting from May 20, 1776, was proposed, potentially involving the high school drama club or other local students to attract families and add a whimsical element to the performance.

34:02The Commission also aims to honor Revolutionary War veterans with a monument in the Veteran Circle, coordinating with the veterans’ agent and the Board of Selectmen. As part of the 250th anniversary activities, a reenactment encampment is planned for the fall.

The meeting concluded with a lighthearted proposal for a monthly “historical moment” on the agenda, allowing members to share personal family history and artifacts. This initiative aims to preserve and celebrate local history, with members expressing excitement over the potential discoveries from personal archives, such as humorous letters and property dispute anecdotes.