Category: 2022

Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - December 21, 2022

12/21/2022

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Stephens at 7:05 PM. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.

Paul Stephens – Chair
Lorraine Tindaro – Vice Chair
Mark Evans – Secretary

Patty DeFroscia
Leah Jennings
Tom Parr
Cathy Callahan
Dawn Coughlan – Liaison to OCHS

Historical Commission Members Absent (1):

Donna DiPrinzio – Excused

Historical Commission Member Attendees: (8 remote = Quorum)
Historical Commission Guests (3):

Cheryl Spaulding
Paul Mullin
Mike Bedrick

Chair Stephens asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes. Cathy Callahan asked for clarification on where the note about “classifications not being considered important anymore” came from. Mark E replied that it came from HPO guidance received from Megan McNish at SHPO. Tom Parr concurred. Hearing no other questions or comments, Chair Stephens asked for a motion to approve 10/19/22 Minutes, the 11/2/22 Special Meeting Minutes, and the 11/16/22 Minutes
Moved by Mark E
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed 6-0
Note: Dawn C and Lorraine T arrived after this vote, so 6 was unanimous

OLD BUSINESS:

MEMBERSHIP
1. Mark E reported that there are still 2 new prospective members waiting to be interviewed. he assumed that with budget, CU hearings, and end of year, the interviews will be held early 2023. Tom Parr noted they are Lisa Shields and James Evans.

SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. SPACKMAN FARM
  1. Mark E reported that the event on 11/19 was a success and drew approximately 40 people even in frigid cold temperatures. 6 people submitted suggestion forms for the future. The top suggestions were:
    1. Walking/Hiking/Bike Trails
    2. Wedding Venue/B&B/Amphitheater
    3. Picnic Areas
    4. Passive Farm Park (last farm in the township)
    5. Historic Reenactments
    6. Tenant Farming
    7. Christmas Events
    8. Native Gardens
    9. Office Space
  2. Mark noted that one of the commenters was Leslie Herr from the East Brandywine Trails Committee who said they would like to work together on having Spackman Farm bridge the trail gap Bondsville Mill Park and GO Carlson.
  3. There were only 2 negative comments: one comment that it is Spackman-Davis Farm, not Davis-Spackman Farm, and one comment that there was poor planning for handicap/limited mobility parking/walking. Paul S said often the negative comments are the most beneficial. There are some new codes for trails and parks. Generated interest in community, and we need to keep it up.

MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
1. Lorraine T said there was nothing to report, still unable to get in touch with the woman who was married at the Schoolhouse for photos
2. Mark E reported that the CCHPN Ledger has still not gone to press.
  1. Dawn C noted that she had a quick exchange with Jim Buczala who said he was able to remove the date from our ad and modified. Also want to be sure it is consistently identified as “Spackman-Davis”.
HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
1. Mark E reported the Sub Com met on 11/23. He, Dawn C, and Patty D reviewed the inventory for accuracy. Some changes were made. Will repost on Dropbox folder in new year
LLOYD FARM
1. Tom P reported that he had seen some recent disturbing images of the Lloyd House on social media. That Mark E had contacted Ray Stackhouse about the current situation, and he was going to reach out to the owner about getting it closed. It is private property and while the images were helpful, they were inappropriate.
  1. Cheryl S asked that we focus on one image that appeared to show a gas can in the open doorway. Mark shared his screen to show each of the images, it was agreed that it was. Not a gas can. Tom said he just hoped Ray could get it fixed. Paul S said it appeared one of the windows on the first floor appeared to have been raised, and that in his experience vandals don’t tend to open windows, they just bust them out. Squatters are the most likely answer. Cheryl S seemed convinced it was a gas can. Mark reiterated that focusing on getting our Historical Preservation Ordinance passed would make this demolition by neglect. He added that the concerned residents need to start a grassroots effort, form a 501-C3 “Friends of Lloyd Farm” and the ball is in their court. Paul S confirmed that the Historical Preservation Ordinance was the key. Mark said that as he often comments “what’s been done is in the past, and all we need to work on what can be done now”.

EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE
1. Cathy reported that April Franz’s Oct. 31st email said she would forward Cathy’s email to Elizabeth Rarleigh and stated “we are short-staffed but hoping to add staff to keep the Edges Milling District application moving. Mark said he thought we’ve now spent enough time waiting for them to take action, and we should pick up the ball in 2023 and get everything submitted through PAShare so we’ll be in control of the situation.
2. Patty D added that the Buchanan House is for sale and there’s a sign up.
OCHS LIASON REPORT
1. Dawn said the Newsletter is ready to go out but was delayed by holidays. Dawn said it’s been a whirlwind of a year, but a great year. They’ve regrouped, reorganized, moved forward with their major fundraiser in the spring, the November dinner with Bruce Mowbray as speaker, and wonderful candlelight holiday event.
2. Paul S added that Dawn asked him to put together a talk for the OCHS covering his experiences working with NPS and he may bring in some earlier history of himself. “Preserving the Past for the Future”: how the park service goes about trying to preserve buildings and resources under its control for the long haul as they look at things in perpetuity. It will be Sunday 2/12/23 at 2pm. Dawn said these talks were held twice a year before COVID at the Township Building but are asking to do it at the Meetinghouse.
3. Mark noted that under Dawn’s leadership we’ve been able to reconnect with the OCHS, and it’s been wonderful working together.
4. Tom Parr stated that he has a vintage handmade Christmas toy he’d like to donate to OCHS.

FINANCE UPDATE

Mark reported that the Hx Com entered November with a balance of $341.63. After allocation of $190.76 for the portable outdoor heat towers, there was a remaining balance of $150.87. The township picked up the cost of the donuts, cider, and water, Mark donated the propane for the heaters, Ed Artz provided the PA, so the $200 allocated on 10/19 for the event were returned to the budget, leaving a final balance of $350.87. Those funds will be returned to the township’s General Fund. He thought we’d done a good job with our money this year and in 2023 will probably re-up PAShare and other memberships.
Dawn added that we should keep a track of donated goods such as Ed Artz providing professional sound. Should we offer him some form of compensation. Mark said he believed Ed would not accept money, but maybe a letter of thanks would be a good idea. Dawn said letters of thanks to all involved – speakers, Rep. Williams, Abbey Swan, P&R Com, Township, Ed, etc. Mark will write the letters; Paul S will sign them.

2022 CTHC EXPENDITURES

DATE
FOR
AMOUNT
BALANCE

1-Jan
Annual Budget
$1,200.00
$1,200.00

1-Mar
PAShare Annual License
-$350.00
$850.00

18-May
CCHPN ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP
-$100.00
$750.00

1-May
GUESTBOOK FOR SCHOOLHOUSE
-$10.59
$739.41

1-Jun
ALLOCATED FOR CCHPN AD
-$100.00
$639.41

20-Sep
PRESERVATION PA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP
-$75.00
$564.41

19-Oct
10/19 EVENT ALLOCATION
-$200.00
$364.41

19-Oct
FRAMED PRINT FOR M GRIFFITH
-$22.78
$341.63

17-Nov
OUTDOOR PORTABLE HEATERS
-$190.76
$150.87

1-Dec
REVERSE OF EVENT ALLOCATION
$200.00
$350.87

NEW BUSINESS:

ANNUAL REPORT FOR BOC
1. Paul S said he assumed it was a recap of our year and asked if it was a formal presentation to the BOC, or just a written report. Mark said he wasn’t sure, just a requirement he found under Chapter 19. He shared a document he had started working on and asked for input from Members. Tom P suggested we note “we’re trying to have a bigger voice in the Twp, trying to get to the forefront, work with our neighboring township Historical Commissions, open up our township, break out forgotten ideas like Spackman-Davis, new ideas – that kind of energy that’s been infused back into our Commission. “This rock is rolling”. Mark said, “trying to capture the enthusiasm that “here we all were, 3 days before Christmas, still working hard and enjoying each other’s company”. LT added the Spackman-Davis event should be included. Paul S said recap entire year – grown our membership, established sub-coms to keep moving in many directions, were proactive, gone out in ways we can better the community”. Mark said he’ll be including his quarterly reviews. Paul S said the minutes tell it all, asked where they go? Mark said they’re kept in an online archive

@calntownship.org. He’ll try to have a report ready for next meeting. Tom asked if there’s a deadline, Mark wasn’t sure. Cathy C added Jim Spaulding used to do a year-end report. Paul S said it’s good for us to do this, it raises our profile. Tom said it might be something to post on the website to show everyone what we’re trying to accomplish. Dawn concurred; it could be linked through the website under Historical Com.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:
Paul S asked if there was any additional business.

Mark mentioned the email Paul and Mark received from Laura DiMateo 12/15 at Chesco.org on 2023 Walking Tours. He read the email to the group, and emphasized the theme was “agricultural history of Chester County”. He added the deadline was 1/13/23, before our next meeting, and suggested he work with Paul S to make a proposal. Patty D said we had done it twice in the past – Carver Court and a walking tour of Caln. Paul S said Spackman-Davis would be the most appropriate site, and asked what we can do for a tour, staffing, signage to interpret the site - we have some problems with safety issues and will require more than just us. We need to talk to the township and get their buy-in. Patty wasn’t sure we could be ready for it, Mark suggested we could possibly be ready by late summer. Paul said we can’t get into the house, and there are security issues. Tom brought up gopher holes, etc. Paul said there’s 2–3-foot hole/gap outside of the smokehouse door. Mark felt that this year’s theme being “Agricultural Heritage” is what drives him to want to apply, that the history of Spackman-Davis is the history of Chester County Agriculture. He referenced all that we were able to accomplish with very limited amount of time and that he believed we could come up with a way to make it safe for a short tour of the grounds. Paul S thought the Smokehouse, Springhouse, Barn could be made safe enough so that people could look inside; there are very few smokehouses that are intact like that one. Mark said at that time of year there will be corn, and that visual alone will make the house look better. Paul S said you can rope off an area inside the barn to bring people in for a look. Paul M was asked if he had thoughts about it. He thought if we could get partially inside the barn, it would be a beautiful view – you get a real feel of what the barn is about. The property itself, the corn, and just getting inside the barn should blow everybody away. Paul S thought with a couple of days in the spring out there with a shovel and dirt, we could certainly improve the condition and make it safe.

Dawn asked if August 10th was the only August date, and what the other dates are. Mark said it’s every Thursday starting June 8th. She said she’d love to do it, and would love to ask OCHS to be involved, they could provide displays, artifacts, etc. We’ll need manpower for tour guides, scripting, and stops.
Mark E said he’d bring it up at the next BOC meeting under additional business and ask that it be on the agenda for discussion at the 1/12/23 BOC meeting. If approved, we’ll move forward.
Mark proposed a motion that pending BOC approval, based on the discussion we’ve just had, Paul S and Mark E prepare the application to submit by 1/13/23, establish what improvements must be done during Q-1, and keep open the window that we can pull out for safety concerns if needed.
Moved by Mark E
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed 8-0

Mark sang Holly Jolly Christmas, thanked all for making 2022 such a great year.

ADJOURNMENT
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Mark E
Second by Tom Parr
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed 8-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:23 PM

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Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - June 29, 2022

7/21/2022

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Historical Commission Member Attendees: (7 – Quorum)

Paul Stephens – Chair
Lorraine Tindaro – Vice Chair
Mark Evans – Secretary
Dawn Coughlan

Leah Jennings
Patti DeFroscia
Tom Parr

Historical Commission Members Absent (1):

Cathy Callaghan - Excused

Historical Commission Guests (1):

Mike Bedrick

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Stephens at 7:06 PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded.
Secretary Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.
Chair Stephens asked if there were any comments/corrections on the minutes of the May 18, 2022 meeting. Secretary Evans responded that the minutes were not completed in time and will be ready before the July meeting. Tabled until July.

OLD BUSINESS:

SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. SPACKMAN FARM
  1. Mark reported that he sent an email to Abbey and P&R regarding a potential joint Holiday event and that Commissioner Kennedy announced at the last BOC meeting that they were very interested. He added that the chain at the main entrance was down, and looked like someone might have driven through it, but that a log was blocking the driveway so trespassers could not get up there.
2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
  1. Mike and Lorraine said they were still waiting to receive the images from Abbey and would call her again
  2. Mark E shared that he had already followed up with Abbey and received the images. The Spackman Farm article was transmitted electronically to these publications on 6/29/22:
    1. Town Lively – News Department
    2. Daily Local – Fran Maye
    3. The Patch – Holly Herman
    4. Vista Today - Mark Hostutler
    5. Chesco Times – Mike McGann
  3. Mark E added that he had contacted CCHPN about running an ad in their fall issue and they were still working on the spring issue. It is now out, so they should let us know the ad-deadline for the fall issue soon. Dawn asked about sending the, the article. he said he would send them the draft Spackman as well.
3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
  1. Mark E shared that the BOC has been hosting open workshops on the HPO at 6:30pm prior to the start of each BOC Meeting, the next one will be 7/14. He has been working with the Township solicitor to absorb suggested tweaks from those workshops. He added that Chapter 19 of the township code currently charges and defines the Hx Com’s powers and responsibilities. The language will be updated and codified in the new ordinance. Mike B suggested that in the updated language we lower the minimum numbers to 7.
  2. He asked for help with clarifying the current proposed resource list. He credited Patty with letting us know we had lost Hatfield Tea Room, or it would have still been on the list.
4. LLOYD FARM
  1. Tom Parr shared that had reached out to the PA Historic Museum Commission and has had a good back-and-forth dialogue with April Frantz. After we learned through PA-SHARE that it was listed under Valley Brook Farm they were able to locate the records. The 1982 assessment found it was eligible for the National Registry. In 2014, after a developer inquired about historical resources in the area, the farm was reassessed, and this time it was deemed not eligible due to loss of integrity. We found on PA-SHARE that it was listed as “needs to be reevaluated”. He reached out to the state to request all documentation as to why it was no longer eligible, and details on loss of integrity. They sent 20 pages of records just received today. Tom asked that Mark E share those docs with the members of the Hx Com. Tom said April was more than accommodating and that if we wanted, and had new information to share, she said they could re-evaluate the farm again. She also connected him with Megan McNish who is willing to help us ID our important resources.
  2. Mark E said that Tom had reached out to Chesco Historian Catherine Quillman, after which Mark ran into her at the CCHPO dinner. Mark said he had a nice chat with her about Lloyd Farm. She will be attending our July meeting to share her expertise. Tom said she could help our understanding of Underground Railroad ties. Paul S said the loss of integrity could have something to do with the loss of the barn. Patty D said they had run into a similar issue with Gardner Beale House and the house at Kings Grant. They said the interior had been changed too much. Paul S stated that is also what we can expect to run into with Lloyd Manor, that much of the woodwork had been removed by the developer, so we should focus on the landscape preservation, and the house may still have some local significance. Tom said April F had said the same thing. Paul believes we need to explore all possibilities.
  3. Tom Parr also reported that we had heard back from Natural Lands, and they are open to another meeting to discuss saving the farm
  4. Paul S said he has not been in contact with Dianne Cram to do a study on Lloyd Farm/Lloyd Manor, but will add to his tickle list
  5. Mike and Lorraine said that they still have not heard back from NAACP re Lloyd Farm. They will try again.
EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE
1. Cathy C was not present. Leah J reported that Cathy has had multiple back-and-forth conversations by phone with April Frantz. Dawn C said she had sent all of the Micki McAllister documents to Cathy. Paul S said it’s important that we keep pushing forward on it.
JUNE 4th HISTORICAL TOUR REPORT
1. Mike and Lorraine reported that it was a nice day and they had about 9 visitors. Shared what they did to kept it somewhat cool on a hot day.
OCHS LIASON REPORT
1. Dawn reported that OCHS is just getting back into action post-COVID. Patty D is their new Hx Histories and Marker Chair. They will push for a vote to complete the markers in EM. They have permission from the owners, and are ready to place the markers, but they are waiting until ongoing construction at the Bank House (corner house) is more settled. She added there is a newsletter and brought along brochures. If anyone did not get the newsletter, that means they’re not members, and added that the membership dues may be going up soon. They are working toward re-establishing the long-standing bond enjoyed between OCHS and CTHC. Paul S challenged the members of the CTHC to achieve 100% membership in OCHS. Dawn added what an honor it is to be working with new Vice President Abbey Swan. She is constantly working to make the connection stronger.
PA SHARE UPDATE
1. Paul prefaced by saying we need to set up a training session.
2. Mark E said he had begun exploring it and it is a powerful tool to accomplish many of our stated goals. Once the Historic Preservation Sub Committee completes their work on the Edges Mill histories, we can get this going through PA Share. But the Edges Mill group needs to review, edit, and approve what Micki McAllister put together for them before any action can be taken
3. Mark E shared that on his test drive of PA Share he found a couple of our resources in question listed as “eligible” and/or “Needs Re-Evaluation. Mark said he will schedule a zoom with Paul to share credentials and get the process started. Paul shared for any visitors that what PA-SHARE is
FINANCE UPDATE
1. Mark E reported there were no expenditures
2. Dawn said that at the CCHPN dinner many Hx Coms reported they had Treasurers, and that we should consider having a treasurer. There were no volunteers. Paul S said that while we have such a small budget, we may be alright for now, but when we begin to apply for grants, we will need one.
ORGANIZATIONS TO CONSIDER JOINING
1. Tabled from 12/15/21 Meeting
2. Mark said he’ll have a list of organizations ready for the September Meeting. Lorraine asked if we are members of the organization that hosted the dinner. Dawn said yes, we are members of CCHPN and she should be getting the newsletter. She loves what the CCHPN President (Jim Buczala) says and how he writes. He’s been pushing “Adaptive Reuse” that is exactly where our focus needs to be.

NEW BUSINESS:

Paul there has been discussion of the need to develop a definable set of classifications to make for an enforceable ordinance. If we’re going to call something historical, we need to be able to defend why. Paul said that we need more information on the resources, why something is important to the township. Mike B asked if there is an evaluation sheet. Paul said it needs to be incorporated into the ordinance. He said Mark needs help from the CTHC with this research. Mark said Kristin Camp has been very helpful and has been clear that she needs to know what standards delineate Class 1 and Class 2, and what defines the resources importance so she can craft the language accordingly. She referred to the 2013 County resource list and asked if he knew who had been involved in the process. He said asked Patty D who told him the 2013 study included the County, OCHS, CTHC, Karen Marshall. KC dug deeper and came up with the classification system prepared by that team. Mark E shared a potential historic classification system based on the county 2013 study, and noted that according to that document, local historical commissions can designate a resource as Class I even if it is not eligible for the National Registry. Paul said we need a definable, defendable reason for classification. We should adopt the national criteria as our criteria for a Caln Register so we can identify local resources and provide a measure of protection. This will go before the public in hearings, at this point we want to hammer out our criteria, and that it would be appropriate to establish a new sub-committee to explore these issues. Mike B asked if there was a state list of sites that may be different from the national reg. Paul said he believed the sate uses the National registry. Getting to the National Registry has become a cottage industry and how can we get there without using large amounts of funds. Perhaps we can come up with a way of protecting resources that important to Caln, and that’s where we’re trying to go with the ordinance. Paul asked for a motion to establish a new Ordinance Sub-Committee led by Mark E and empower him to select who he would like to work with him. Moved by Mark E, Second by Dawn C, Vote called by Paul S, Motion passed 7-0. Tom Parr, Paul S, and volunteered their assistance. Mark asked that Patty D also work on the sub-com because she has the knowledge. Mark then shared other various draft documents including the revised Chapter 19 language to be codified into zoning. Mark E pointed out that in Chapter 19 it states that the CTHC has the authority to enter into grants and suggested that we intentionally seek out a new member with Grants experience. Dawn suggested maybe we could out it in the township newsletter or on social media, there are people out there that love to write grants. Mark said that maybe we could use a little bit of our budget for a grant writer.
Tom Parr reported on CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVRNMENT. He shared the top line and the benefits including grants, adaptive reuse ideas, and services for preservation. There are 48 CLGs in PA, and Caln is surrounded by them. There is a cost. Discussion ensued and we all agreed it would be beneficial for Caln. Paul added that it would tie us into the Keystone Grants Network, and it could pay for itself. Suggested we do as much of the legwork as we can before going to the township. Mark said one of the requirements is examples that the township is interested and working towards preservation wo we need the Township’s buy-in. Dawn asked if there was a 1-time charge or an annual fee. Paul S drafted Tom P to choose who he wants to help him. Tom said he’s been asking for some neighbors to get involved and join.
PARTNERING WITH OTHER HX COMS
1. Tabled from 5/18/22
2. Mark reported that it should not have been on the agenda. He could report on how wonderful the CCHPN dinner was, and that we had 4 members present. We were able to share our story in that public space. Dawn said we got some people’s attention that night.

ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:

Dawn shared how disturbed she was to see about the Amville Bridge was destroyed by PennDOT even though it was on the National Registry. There was video of it posted. It could happen here. She added that the Lloyd Bridge is wonderful and still has some of its capstones. Paul said it’s easy to run an engineering report on a bridge and determine it is not up to modern standards.
Dawn said the amount of truck traffic that is now using the EMR bridge has dramatically increased since Auger opened. And they are using the driveways of private homes to turn around. There was an agreement with the former business that disallowed trucks from using the bridge and forced them to use 322. Mark E reminded everyone that a CU Hearing was coming up on 4060 EMR and we all should be in attendance.
Dawn shared that she heard the Gardner Beale House program at CASH was in danger of being discontinued and noted how much work Paul S had out into that program. Dawn said she can reach out to Joe C, and that we need to be involved, as is the OCHS. Paul S asked that it be put on the agenda under new business for the July meeting. Mark E said that the CASD approved a large raise for administration and has not approved a contract for teachers, so programs are probably being cut. Mike B blamed state funding. Mark concurred and added that Charter Schools as just as big of a problem.
Mark said that maybe we could all start thinking about seeing Lloyd and Spackman as Historic Districts. Maybe we could get Spackman into the County’s hands and use those funds to obtain Lloyd.
Dawn reminded everyone that the coming Sunday would be the first Sunday of the month and we need volunteers to lead the Schoolhouse tour. Paul was a possibility. Dawn said if he could do it she would do it with him, she doesn’t like doing it alone.

ADJOURNMENT
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to adjourn
Moved by Mark E
Second by Dawn C
Vote called by Paul S
Motion passed 8-0

Meeting was adjourned at 8:18 PM

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Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - May 18, 2022

7/21/2022

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Historical Commission Member Attendees: (8 – Quorum)

Paul Stephens – Chair
Lorraine Tindaro – Vice Chair
Mark Evans – Secretary
Dawn Coughlan

Cathy Callaghan
Leah Jennings
Patti DeFroscia
Tom Parr

Historical Commission Members Absent (0):
Historical Commission Guests (1):

Mike Bedrick

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Stephens at 7:07 PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Sec. Evans announced that the meeting was being recorded.
Secretary Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.
Chair Stephens asked if there were any comments/corrections on the minutes of the April 20, 2022 meeting. There were none.
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the February Meeting
Moved by Mark E
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Paul S
Motion passed 8-0

OLD BUSINESS:

SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. SPACKMAN FARM - Mark E reported that the 2022 Township Paving Program has been approved and includes the driveway and parking area at Spackman Farm. Grass Pavers will be used to ease maintenance, and the project is expected to be complete by the end of summer. He suggested we consider partnering with Parks and Rec for a candlelight and hot cocoa holiday event at Spackman. Perhaps get the house lit from outside. Paul S confirmed all would be on the exterior. Mike B suggested that we do it as soon as the driveway is open. Paul S and Tom P said we should wait and try to connect with P&R. Paul thought we should meet with P&R ahead of time to look at potential issues, rope off the porch, etc. Mark added we should get some security cameras going ASAP. Tom P asked who would provide cameras. Paul S said it’s the township. Once we meet with P&R we can meet with township to be sure we can address safety issues. Mark will contact P&R and report back at next meeting.
2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA – Mike and Lorraine
  1. Mike and Lorraine reported that they had no updates and were waiting on the Spackman Barn roof photos.
  2. Mark said he reached out to confirm the township has acquired the drone before/after images but Abbey but is out of the office through 5/20. He asked for approval to send the article (updated to include news of the grass paver project) and photos out as soon as we have the images. The distribution list includes TOWN LIVELY, CCHPN NEWSLETTER, DAILY LOCAL, THE PATCH. He asked what publications he missed. Tom Parr suggested VISTA online and said it’s definitely worth pursuing. Mike B added Coatesville Times and said he would reach out to them. Chair Stephens asked for a motion to approve the distribution of the Spackman Farm article (updated to include news of the grass paver project) and photos to the select publications out as soon as we have the images. Moved by Lorraine T, Second by Tom P, Vote called by Paul S, Motion passed 8-0
  3. Mark added that the CCHPN Newsletter accepts paid adverts for its Spring and Fall issues. We missed the spring and are up against the deadline for the Fall issue. The cost for a ¼ page B/W ad is $100. He believes this would be a wise use of part of our annual budget. Mark asked who among us has the skills to create the ad? Dawn C strongly suggested Abbey Swan and will reach out to her as soon as Abbey returns from vacation. Mark added that if the first ad does well, we might consider making this an annual campaign, there’s a Fall & Spring 2-ad discount rate of $185. Lorraine said it was a good idea and not much money. Dawn suggested we use a photo of the barn, and the schoolhouse. Paul S thought it’s better to have a purpose and not just “Hey, we’re here”.Chair Stephens asked for motion to approve using $100 of our 2022 budget to run an ad in the Fall issue of the CCHPN Newsletter if we can make the deadline. Moved by Mark E, Second by Lorraine T, Vote called by Paul S, Motion passed 8-0
3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
  1. HISTORIC PRESERVATION ORDINANCE
    1. Mark reported that the initial review of our proposed ordinance will be on Thursday May 26th. He added that this was the last chance for this commission to comment on the proposed ordinance and resource document before the review. Paul S said that his reviewed the doc and aside from pending comments in red, it looked like what we had wanted to achieve. Dawn asked if the meeting was public, Mark said he thought it was not. Mark asked for any comments, there were none. Paul S confirmed that there would be no vote on the 26th, only discussion. Mark confirmed it was the beginning of the process. Paul asked if we needed to fill in the blanks where there was red text. Mark said he thought the read was info not settled on yet in the new zoning, and what had to be provided by the township/solicitor.
      1. Mark shared his screen so all could see 155-608-5C. He highlighted the proposed language on pre-application meetings. Mike B asked if it would be with Hx Com? Paul said it would be with us and shouldn’t cause delays.
      2. 155-608-8-C is not settled on yet (zoning), landscaping and buffering was taken out by Township - Mike B asked if this was included in general zoning.
      3. Cathy C asked when the public will get to review and comment on the Zoning Update. If it’s a zoning meeting or BOC. Mark said BOC and that we’re not trying to stop people from doing things to their homes, we’re trying to stop developers from destroying Hx resources. Paul S said it still comes down to the zoning officer, Mark said he thought it was going to end up landing on the BOC.
      4. Paul S reiterated that we didn’t create this out of whole cloth, that we pulled ideas from existing ordinances and it’s a pretty good compromise between protecting the community and protecting property rights
      5. Paul asked about the properties on the resource list, if we could look at them. Mark said that if someone would put them into google maps it would be of great help. He said we got a list of over 1,000 from the county and banged it up against our list, removed their Class 3, 4 and 5. Mike asked what our Class 3 were. Paul S said we weren’t going to have a class 3. Dawn asked Patty if she’d reviewed it since she was involved in the original process. She hadn’t but will. Paul thought we had a good working list, and the things that we should stick with what we already list as Class 1 and 2. What’s on the county list might not be needed. We have to do a good job of educating people of what all this means for them. We need to be clear that we’re not trying to push these on the list without input from the property owners.
      6. Paul asked if some of them were archeological sites and not buildings? Patty said the Hatfield Teahouse has been demolished. It went through the BOC and no one ever let the Hx Com know it was a historic resource. Might not have stopped the demo but could have inventoried it for pictures and history. Tom Parr said the county list had the Lloyd Bridge Pump Station. Pal S said he always notices the shed on North Caln and wonders if it’s one of the resources on the county list.
      7. Mike B asked if there were provisions for adding anything to list in the future. Paul and Mark confirmed there is language to that effect.
      8. Cathy C asked if we’re getting rid of the historic overlay. Mark and Paul said the overlay provided no real protections, but real protections will be being extended to the entire township. She said that if we had that earlier we could have saved Lloyd Farm.
EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE
1. Cathy reported she’d spoke with Elizabeth R and April Frantz and they’re using the original paperwork sent in on her home and create for the other homes to try to help us get this done. Dawn said it’s great they’re keeping up the conversation and added that Micky M had done a tremendous amount of work on the area, did all the research and typed it all up so the documentation is there. Mark E added that we spent $350 for PA Share to expedite this, that we need someone to take the reins and get it all organized.
MAY 15TH HISTORICAL TOURS
1. Leah and Cathy reported it was a wonderful day. The place looked beautiful. Leah said there were around 12 at the Schoolhouse. Dawn said there were 21 at the Meetinghouse. Dawn added that Dot Johnson donated a small rolltop child’s desk for the schoolhouse. Next tour date is June 5th. Dawn added we should start throwing dates around for the Spackman Farm P&R effort before everyone’s calendars get too jammed. Paul S said as soon as we have confirmation from P&R we can start that. Paul thought a Saturday night might work best; we should get a list of what’s already booked. Paul asked for volunteers for June 5th. Leah suggested we turn the dehumidifier off when in building during summer months, as long as we turn it back on. It gets unbearably hot. A small fan also helps.
2. Lorraine and Mike volunteered to do June 5th tours
PA SHARE
1. Mark had nothing to report.
LLOYD FARM PRESENTATION
1. Mark said “all hope is lost” is not true. That the PennDOT plans could help us. Paul asked if we’d heard back about the mantle, etc. Dawn has not and will follow up. He shared a PPT he created for Lloyd Farm. He emphasized that one of the special features is that it’s not in the middle of nowhere, it is right in the public eye. Tom P asked if I the PPT could be shares with us, and if he could come to any meetings.
2. Mark E proposed that we form a new sub-committee, The Lloyd Farm Sub-Committee and that Tom Parr head that up. Chair Stephens asked for a motion to form a new Sub-Committee, The Lloyd Farm Sub-Committee and that Tom Parr head that up, Moved by Mark E, Second by Cathy C, Vote called by Paul S, Motion passed 8-0
3. Mark asked if Dianne Cram could do a condition assessment on Lloyd Farm/Lloyd Manor. Paul said he will reach out to her and that it can be more than a windshield look if the property owner agrees.
4. Cathy C thought it would be good for us to obtain as many records as we can. Tom Parr said that in 1984 there was a chance to put it on the National Register but the archdiocese didn’t want to do it. Mark displayed the preliminary state DOE form. Tom will dig deep and follow up. He said every year for the last 40 years there have been crops growing, and he wants to protect it. Paul S will tell Dianne we’re looking for permission to get in.
5. Mike B shared a work of warning: the PennDOT plans might not inhibit the developer plans, only make them change their placement.

NEW BUSINESS:

ORGANIZATIONS TO CONSIDER JOINING
1. Tabled from 12/15/21 Meeting
2. Paul S said we have reupped our CCHPN membership. Mark asked that everyone send him their full contact info to him even if they think he has it.
FINANCE UPDATE – Mark reported we were granted a $1200 Budget for this year, and had expended the following amounts:
1. $350 for PA SHARE 1 year license
2. $100 for CCHPN Annual Membership
3. $10.59 for a new Guestbook for the Old Schoolhouse
4. The CCHPN Annual Membership of $100 was paid 5/18/22, leaving us with a remaining balance of $739.41
5. Mark reported that he CCHPN Volunteer Dinner will be held at 5:30 on Wednesday June 22nd at Thornbury Farm, 1256 Thornbury Road, West Chester. He asked if we should we consider using some of our 2022 budget to send a representative or two @ $15/ticket? Paul S suggested that $15 wasn’t much OOP individually, so we should reserve our budget funds. Mark asked if everyone was amenable to rescheduling our June meeting to Wednesday June 29th? All agreed to reschedule. Mark will contact Kristen and Abbey to reschedule.
4801 HORSESHOE PIKE
1. Resident had expressed interest on FB but did not show up at the meeting. Tabled
PARTNERING WITH OTHER HX COMS
1. Interest expressed on FB, but no one show up at the meeting. Tabled

ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:

Tom Parr inquired on where we are on CLG? Paul S instructed Mark to put it on the agenda for the June meeting.
Mark reported that the Buchanan House is in great danger. The current owner, who formerly used this historically significant resource as the Craft House restaurant is now operating a Crypto-mining enterprise out of its basement. So much heat is generated by the computers that large fans are being run off generators and could be a fire hazard. Leah asked for more explanation of what crypto mining is. Paul S described the amount of energy required and the amount of heat created by the process, which makes it dangerous.
Mark shared that Parkesburg will be celebrating their Sesquicentennial on May 20, 21, and 22, and details were available at Parkesburg.org
Mark shared a Q 1 - Q 2 PPT update on our goals
1. Draft and Present HPO - COMPLETE
2. Identify Historical Resources – COMPLETE
3. Register for PA-SHARE – COMPLETE
4. Edges Mill Historic District – NOT COMPLETED
5. CLG – IN PROCESS
Mark shared a DRAFT of Q 3 goals
1. Township Passage of HPO
2. Increased Membership
3. Get our Hx Com in Local News
4. Completion of Edges Mill documentation for PA-SHARE Submission
5. Lloyd Farm Campaign

ADJOURNMENT
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to adjourn
Moved by Cathy C
Second by Dawn C
Vote called by Paul S
Motion passed 8-0

Meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM

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Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - April 20, 2022

5/23/2022

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Historical Commission Member Attendees: (5– Quorum)

Lorraine Tindaro – Vice Chair
Mark Evans – Secretary
Dawn Coughlan

Cathy Callaghan
Leah Jennings

Historical Commission Members Absent (3):

Paul Stephens – Chair (Excused)
Patti DeFroscia (Excused)
Tom Parr (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (1):

Mike Bedrick

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Tindaro at 7:10 PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Technical difficulties prevented the meeting from being recorded.
Secretary Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.
Vice Chair Tindaro asked if there were any comments/corrections on the minutes of the February 16, 2022 meeting. There were none.
Vice Chair Tindaro asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the February Meeting
Moved by Dawn C
Second by Mark E
Vote called by Lorraine T
Motion passed 5-0

OLD BUSINESS:

SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. HISTORIC PRESERVATION ORDINANCE
  1. Mark E reported that the Proposed Ordinance and Hx Resources list have been distributed to all members of the Zoning Update Taskforce and expects there to be a meeting to review it in May.
  2. Mark said he received a 2nd Caln resource list/atlas from the County that includes approx. 900 resources in Caln. Our list only has 65 resources. Mark will send the County document around to the Hx Com members for review.
  3. Mark also said it was suggested that the Hx Com reach out to the owners of historic resources to gauge their interest/concerns about being included on the list
    1. Dawn C shared that many people did not accept the OCHS offers to put a marker on their property. Major misconception is that they think it’s the same as being on the National Register
    2. Mark said one point to get across is that their properties are already considered to be of Historic value by the County. All the Ordinance does is add protections against developers infringing on the integrity of their properties.
    3. The group discussed various scenarios
    4. Mike B suggested that we interview all of the property owners that would be affected. Cathy C agreed. Mark E noted that it could mean scheduling as many as 900 interviews which would be a logistical nightmare.
    5. All agreed that messaging is of utmost importance.
2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
  1. Lorraine T and Mike B reported that the Spackman Farm article was approved for distribution, but remains held up until we receive the Hi-Res arial photos taken by ARRO
    1. Mark E said he thinks Abbey now has them and will follow up with her.
    2. Mark E suggested that we also submit the Spackman article to CCHPN for their newsletter
  2. Dawn C mentioned that she is trying to get details on who painted the portraits of the Pimms (Richard Pimm and Mary Pimm -nee Edge) that now reside in the Schoolhouse. Mark E suggested that would also make for a great article, especially for the Township Newsletter.
3. SPACKMAN FARM
  1. Mark E reported there were no updates to report on Spackman Farm.
4. EDGES MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT
  1. Cathy C reported that she spoke with April France and Elizabeth Rairley over the last 2 weeks, and they will use the existing paperwork on her house, send her specific questions regarding the other properties and put it all together. They told her that they believe they can get it done.

NEW BUSINESS:

There was no new business on the agenda

BUSINESS:

CCHPO Membership
1. Mark E will follow up to make sure our membership has been renewed. Mark and Dawn reminded the group that we have a budget for 2022 of $1200. Of that $350 have been spent for PA SHARE leaving $850 available.
Mark brought up the planned demolition of the condemned house on the golf course. He will let us know once the additional asbestos removal is complete. He also confirmed that the Barn will not be demoed.
Mark suggested we revisit Lloyd Farm. He started an application for PA at Risk but ran out of time. In the process he received permission from Downingtown Historical Society and Abandoned Steve to use any of their images of Lloyd Farm in the preservation efforts. He is now working on a complete history and has found inconsistencies between various existing histories. He has not found any evidence that it was part of the Underground Railroad.
1. Mike B said he will reach out to the NAACP to see if they have any documentation on Lloyd Farm.
2. Cathy C said it’s hard to believe it wasn’t part of the UR, as many properties were. Hopes we find something.
3. Leah asked if there were any updates on the developer or the house. Cathy C added that the house was magnificent. Mark said that there were no developer actions, and with the rerouting of Lloyd Ave thought the north end of the Farm he doubts there will be enough land left for the developer to make it worth the investment. Cathy C added that could help to preserve it. Mark said they ripped out the door and the mantels and banisters and he heard they were donated to the CCHS. Dawn C will reach out to CCHS to see if they have them.
Mark said the Orangery at Glen Isle was definitely part of the UR. The group discussed Glen Isle and its former life as the Ship Inn. Mark suggested that they all pick a date late summer to have dinner at the Orangery.
Dawn brought up the Schoolhouse Tours and suggested the dates be scheduled to coincide with the Log Cabin and Meetinghouse Tour dates: May 15, June 5, July 3, August 7, September 4, and October 2. Mark apologized for sending incorrect days around.
1. The group agreed those dates make the most sense.
2. An email will be circulated with the correct dates.
3. Mike B suggested we ask the Township to correct the dates on the website
4. Cathy C and Leah J will host the tour on May 15th.
Leah J suggested we look into the status of the Bee Hive House as it is threatened by planned the Christian Fellowship building.

ADJOURNMENT
Vice Chair Tindaro asked for a motion to adjourn
Moved by Mark E
Second by Cathy C
Vote called by Lorraine T
Motion passed 5-0

Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM

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Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - February 16, 2022

4/22/2022

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Historical Commission Member Attendees: (6– Quorum)

Paul Stephens – Chair
Lorraine Tindaro – Vice Chair
Mark Evans – Secretary
Dawn Coughlan

Patti DeFroscia
Leah Jennings

Historical Commission Members Absent (1):

Cathy Callaghan (Excused)

Historical Commission Guests (2):

Mike Bedrick
Tom Parr
Micki McAllister

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Stephens at 7:10 PM, who announced that the meeting was being recorded to expedite transcription of minutes, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Evans continued with Members Roll Call and introduced guests.
Chair Stephens asked if there were any comments/corrections on the minutes of the January 19, 2022 meeting. There were none.
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the December Meeting
Moved by Dawn C
Second by Leah J
Vote called by Paul S
Motion passed 6-0

OLD BUSINESS INCLUDED:

A report from our Marketing and Social Media sub com and approval of the Spackman Farm article for distribution to select local news outlets, pending our receipt of Hi-Res arial photos taken by Arro
Spackman Farm sub com hosted a discussion about revisiting the naming convention used to designate Spackman Farm. There was also discussion of the Kings Highway Masterplan.
Historical Preservation sub com hosted a discussion about the definitions of Class 1 and Class 2 historic resources. They also reported that pending completion and cross-checking of the Updated Historical Resource document, the Historical Preservation Ordinance was ready to be transmitted to the Zoning Taskforce.

NEW BUSINESS INCLUDED:

An update on PA SHARE - we now have a 1-year subscription
Historical structures at Brandywine Hospital were discussed but it was determined they were not in Caln
Organizations to consider joining remained tabled
New Member Tom Parr delivered a detailed report on Certified Local Government and how to achieve that status

BUSINESS:

Our membership to CCHPO needs to be renewed.

ADJOURNMENT
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to adjourn
Moved by Lorraine T
Second by Dawn C
Vote called by Paul S
Motion passed 6-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:23 PM

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Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - December 21, 2022

Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - June 29, 2022

Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - May 18, 2022

Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - April 20, 2022

Historical Commission Meeting Minutes - February 16, 2022

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