​

​This meeting was rescheduled from July 17 due to a power outage
 
Called to Order by Chair Evans at 7:04 PM, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance
The Chair conducted members Roll call and announcement of guests in attendance:
Commission Member Attendees: 8 (Quorum).  Guests: 2
Introduction of Guests

1. Don Vymazal
2. Mike Bedrick

 
Approval of 5/15/24 Minutes
Motion by Lorraine T
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 7-0 with 1 abstention       
Approval of 6/19/24 Minutes
Motion by Tom P
Second by Patty D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor    
 
OLD BUSINESS

1. MEMBERSHIP

No changes, 10 Members, 5 openings

1. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. EVENTS reported the June 29th picnic was a huge success with 164 guests checked in. Received lots of positive feedback. Only complaint was there was no wine.

 

1. SPACKMAN FARM reported was lost a Beech Tree in a recent storm. Looking into saving it or removing it. Also, the farmhouse roof bids came in at a great price - $180K

 

1. MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA reported on the June 26th CCHPN awards dinner

 

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION Cathy read the Designation of Eligibility letter she received for the Mendenhall-Valentine-Edge House. Is in the process of scheduling a site visit and inspection with Pamella and Jennifer from SHPO to determine final status for National Register of Historic Places.

 

1. CALN AT RISK

1. Lloyd Farm soy crop is doing good
2. Buchanan House has reopened as bar with food from Frida’s Mexican restaurant. Chair asked for a motion to remove resource from Endangered List

Motion by Tom P
Second by Lorraine T
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor    

1. Copeland Run Academy closed for summer. Will revisit in the fall
2. D. Vickers House on pause pending status of property
3. Caln Elementary slated to close. Important it be properly repurposed. Chair asked for a motion to add school to Caln at Risk List

Motion by Tom P
Second by Lorraine T
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor    

1. TOURS 

Tabled for August meeting
Motion by Donna D
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor
 

1. OCHS LIASON REPORT

2 new markers were approved for The Corner House and The Miller’s House (AKA Bank House). Patty D reported 2nd Chance Flea Market raised $500. Meetinghouse cleaned and more organized, fallen tree has been removed. OCHS picnic and elections will be 4pm 8/25 at Patty’s.  

1. FINANCE REPORT

Donna asked for a motion to approve an expenditure from our budget as follows:

1. $500 Kelly Phillips for June 29th picnic

Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Lorraine T
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor

1. $321.14 Sunbelt Rentals for June 29th picnic

Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Lorraine T
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor    

1. $2277.10 Dixie Picnic for June 29th picnic – Fulsome discussion about whether to pick up this cost. Approved as a one-time deal for a joint event. 

Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Patty D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor    
 
NEW BUSINESS
 
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
Tom P reported the flower beds around the Schoolhouse were cleaned up by Abbey and summer helpers from Public Works. They did a great job.
ADJOURNMENT
Mark asked for a motion to Adjourn.
Motion by Tom P
Second by Patty D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 8-0 all in favor    
Meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM
 

Caln Historical Commission Meeting Minutes
Hybrid, Wednesday December 20th, 2023
7:00 PM- 9:00PM
The meeting was called to order by Chair Evans at 7:05 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Secretary Shields conducted members Roll call and announcement of Guests in attendance.

1. Mark Evans – Chair
2. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair
3. Lisa Shields – Secretary
4. Donna DiPrinzio – Treasurer
5. Tom Parr
6. Patty DeFroscia
7. Jamie Evans
8. Leah Jennings
9. Cathy Callahan
10. Lorraine Tindaro

Historical Commission Member Absent (1)

1. Paul Stephens – Excused, he will be present at our January 2024 CHC meeting.

Historical Commission Attendees:              Quorum 10 members present at roll call, (0 remote).
Historical Commission Guests
Introduction of Guests (6):
Josh Young, Township Commissioner, Don Vymazal, Township Manager, Helen Eckel, Sam Weiner, Licia Carini, Chris Parr
Approval of 10/18/23 Minutes
Mark asked if all sub-committee reports from the 10/18 meeting had been submitted to Lisa S. He then asked if there were any additional comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 10/18/23 meeting. Hearing none he asked for a motion to approve.
Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Jamie Evans
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0 all in favor.
 
OLD BUSINESS

1. MEMBERSHIP

Mark shared that after the New Year we’ll be down to 10 members as Paul Stephens will be leaving us for his Virginia farmstead.
 
2.SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS

1. SPACKMAN FARM
   1. Mark shared that the electric is on, and the house is decorated for the holidays.
2. MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA
   1. Lorraine shared that the Jan. 2024 township newsletter will have a story about the couple who held their wedding at the Hexagon School House in Feb 2002.
   2. Mark noted that so much of what we hope to do in 2024 will be driven by social media and advertising. It would be great if the M&S subcommittee could start brainstorming new/fresh over the holidays.
   3. The group reviewed the CTHC Facebook page.

Mark asked for a motion to approve going live with CTHC Facebook page.
Moved by Patty DeFroscia
Second by Lorraine Tindaro
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0 all in favor.
 

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
   1. Nothing new to report.

       D.  CALN AT RISK – Tom P

1. Mark presented a draft inquiry letter to send to the BOD of Copeland Run School asking for more info on the Mary Louise Lloyd house, and to ask for access to the Mary Louise Lloyd library so that we can document artifacts.

Mark asked for a motion to approve sending email to the BOD of Copeland Run School.
Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Donna DiPrinzio
Vote Called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0 all in favor.
 
3.EDGES MILL UPDATE

1.   Cathy C. noted good news by the end of January will have information.

4.SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS

1. Patty and Dawn decorated the Schoolhouse with fresh greens and gave tours to visitors during the Caln Tree Lighting Ceremony December 3.
2. Helped Parks and Rec decorate, set luminaria trail. 
3. In January, will circulate a sign up sheet for May through October 2024 First Sunday Open House tour guides.

5.OCH LIASON REPORT – Dawn C.
a.Hosted successful Caln Community Candlelight Christmas Program December 5 highlights included the CASD Meistersingers and the Caln Elementary Chorus.  A local Boy Scout troop lent assistance.
6.FINANCE REPORT –

1. Donna D. budget approved $10,000.

7.ANNUAL REPORT – Mark E

1. Mark hopes to have a draft ready in advance of our January meeting.

NEW BUSINESS
None.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
Mark asked for a motion to appoint Paul Stevens Member Emeritus effective January 2024.
Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Donna DiPrinzio
Vote Called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0 all in favor.
 
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Evans asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Jamie Evans
Second by Donna DiPrinzio
Motion passed 10-0
Meeting was adjourned at 7:37 PM
​

Caln Historical Commission Meeting Minutes
Hybrid, Wednesday October 18th, 2023
7:00 PM- 9:00PM
The meeting was called to order by Chair Evans at 7:02 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Secretary Shields conducted members Roll call and announcement of guests in attendance.

1. Mark Evans – Chair
2. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair
3. Lisa Shields – Secretary
4. Donna DiPrinzio – Treasurer
5. Paul Stephens
6. Tom Parr
7. Patty DeFroscia
8. Jamie Evans
9. Leah Jennings
10. Cathy Callahan
11. Lorraine Tindaro

Historical Commission Member Attendees: 11 = Quorum (11 – in person, 0 remote)
Historical Commission Guests (0)
Approval of 9/20/23 Minutes
Mark asked if all sub-committee reports from the 9/20 meeting had been submitted to Ms. Sheilds. He then asked if there were any additional comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 9/20/23 meeting. Hearing none he asked for a motion to approve.
Moved by Paul Stephens
Second by Lorraine Tindaro
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 11-0
 
OLD BUSINESS
1.MEMBERSHIP – Mark E
Mark E, Leah Jennings, and Paul Stephens have terms expiring at the end of 2020. Leah will stay on, Paul is relocating and needs to step down at the end of 2023. Mark will notify the township.
2.SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS

1. SPACKMAN FARM
   1. Expecting the farmhouse roof engineering report from Gilmore Associates for before our next meeting.
   2. Tom Zartler submitted a proposal of $4K for Phase 1 of electrical work:
      1. Safely restore electric service to the basement, first floor, and add a central outdoor location. Does not include purchase of dehumidifiers.
   3. Dawn and Mark had lunch with Richard Spackman and Marianne Griffiths to discuss S-D Farm and potential park. 501c-3 idea was enthusiastically received.
   4. Reminder, the SD Farm tour will be presented as a Case Study for success at the CCPC/CCHPN Fall Workshop Saturday 11/11. Will see if Twp. will pick up $10/head for CTHC members to attend.
2. MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA
   1. Remember, every opportunity to get our recent accomplishments in print is priceless.
   2. Lorraine revisited the schoolhouse wedding article. It is being held until winter to correspond with the wedding’s time of year.
   3. Caln Website Hx Com page has been updated.
3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
   1. Waiting for CCPC comments on HPO. Will nudge before Nov. meeting.

     D.  CALN AT RISK – Tom P

• The Lloyd Farmhouse is once again boarded up.
• Corn is high and brown and should be cut down soon.
• Brief discussion of Caln Elementary and CASD plans to close it.

1. EDGES MILL UPDATE – Cathy C
   1. Cathy has heard nothing new. Mark noted she can cc him next time she reaches out to more people, such as Karen Marshall.
2. SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS – Jamie E
   1. Jamie Evans, Dawn C. 7 visitors.
   2. Dawn shared the wonderful surprise left behind by West Chester Friends at the schoolhouse – a medallion/coin celebrating the 1888-1968 Caln Centennial. Paul suggested adding it to the OCHS Museum collection.

Mark asked for a motion to donate the coin to the OCHS Museum.
Moved by Dawn C
Second by Paul S
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 11-0

1. Request that in 2024, photos be taken at all tours.

3.OCH LIASON REPORT – Dawn C

1. Reminder that the annual dinner is 11/4 @ Thorndale Inn with George March speaking. 12/5 holiday celebration @ Meetinghouse. Patty will be raffling off flowers she is donating to raise funds for OCHS.

1. FINANCE REPORT – Donna D
   1. $225 check was mailed to Genesius Theatre. Leaves a balanced of $4.65.
2. ANNUAL REPORT – Mark E
   1. Request all sub coms submit quarterly reports for Q1-Q3 to Mark, Donna, and Lisa.

NEW BUSINESS
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS

1. HOMETOWN HERITAGE MARKER GRANTS
   1. Dawn noted this program is completely free of charge.
   2. Old Caln Schoolhouse is a great place for the marker, as is Spackman-Davis Farm. PS thought we may have better hard documentation on SD Farm and could fall into a hole researching Schoolhouse.

Mark E asked for a motion to proceed with process to submit SD Farm, while also looking into prospects for Schoolhouse.
Moved by Paul S
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 11-0

1. FORMATION OF EVENTS SUB-COMMITTEE?
   1. Brief chat about needs for future events. Put on hold until 2024 budget request is approved.
2. It was suggested we cancel our November meeting and meet next Dec. 20th.

Mark asked for a motion to approve cancelling November meeting.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 11-0
 
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Evans asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Lorraine Tindaro
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed11-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM
​

Caln Historical Commission Meeting Minutes
Hybrid, Wednesday September 20th, 2023
7:00 PM- 9:00PM

The meeting was called to order by Chair Evans at 7:05 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mark shared that Secretary Shields had let him know she wasn’t feeling well and wouldn’t be able to attend. He conducted members Roll call and announcement of guests in attendance.

1. Mark Evans – Chair
2. Donna DiPrinzio – Treasurer
3. Paul Stephens
4. Tom Parr
5. Patty DeFroscia
6. Jamie Evans
7. Lorraine Tindaro

Historical Commission Member Attendees: 7 = Quorum (7 – in person, 0 remote)
Historical Commission Members Absent = 4

1. Cathy Callahan – Excused
2. Lisa Shields – Excused
3. Dawn Coughlan – Excused
4. Leah Jennings – Excused

Historical Commission Guests (2)

• Mary Guiseppi
• Pat Guiseppi

Approval of 8/16/23 Minutes
Mark asked if all sub-committee reports from the 8/16 meeting had been submitted to Ms. Sheilds. He then asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 8/16/23 meeting. Hearing none he asked for a motion to approve.
Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Paul Stephens
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 7-0
 
OLD BUSINESS
1.MEMBERSHIP
No change. We still have 11 members with room for 4 more.
2.SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS

1. SPACKMAN FARM
   1. On 8/31 the BOC approved an expenditure not-to-exceed $22,860 to Gilmore Associates for engineering toward replacement of the farmhouse roof. Patty D said she saw them there today.
   2. On 8/28 Tom, Mark & Abbey met with Tom Zartler to discuss electrical work to be completed in small bites. Tom Z to send proposal:
      1. Safely restore electric service to the basement, living room, and to a central outdoor location. Run dehumidifiers.
   3. Mark has been asked to present a Case Study on the success of the SD Farm tour at the CCPC/CCHPN Fall Workshop. 
2. MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA
   1. Mark has been asked to write a feature article for the CCHPN Fall Ledger on the S-D Farm tour. “Every opportunity for us to get in print is priceless”.
   2. Lorraine revisited the schoolhouse wedding article. It is being held until winter to correspond with the wedding’s time of year.
   3. Caln Website Hx Com page out of date.

Chair Evans asked for a motion to approve website update and send it to Abbey.
Moved by Paul S
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 7-0

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
   1. Updated HPO draft sent to Mark Gallant at CCPC for review.
   2. Hometown Heritage Marker Grants. No submission deadline, tabled till Oct.
   3. Discussed involvement with new Twining Committee.

     D.  CALN AT RISK

• The Lloyd Farmhouse is once again boarded up.
• Corn is high and brown and should be cut down soon.
• Brief discussion of Caln Elementary and CASD plans to close it.

1. EDGES MILL UPDATE
   1. Mark said Cathy received email from Elizabeth Rarleigh. Has been on site in Pittsburgh, will reaching out soon.
2. SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS
   1. Tom, Chris Parr. 25 visitors. Great day!
   2. Prior to tour, Tom and Patty D did some yardwork to improve appearance.
   3. 2024: weed, prune, etc. before twp mulches.
   4. Requested large Holly Tree behind school be pruned – too high & blocks floodlights.
   5. Discussed adding Spackman Farm Tours for 2024 on only half the tour dates.
   6. Final tour for 2023 is October 1st. Jamie and Donna tour guides.

 
3.OCH LIASON REPORT

1. Patty D: annual dinner 11/11 @ Thorndale Inn with George March speaking. 12/15 holiday celebration @ Meetinghouse

1. FINANCE REPORT
   1. $225 check mailed to Genesius Theatre.
   2. ME will pick-up dry-cleaning tab before returning.
   3. Trolley driver received gratuity check – most appreciative.      
   4. Mark shared a 2024 Spackman-Davis Farm events presentation.
   5. Donna presented 2024 Budget proposal.

Chair Evans asked for a motion to approve a budget request of $10,000 for 2024 to pay for memberships, marketing and advertising, and events, with caveat we offer additional info.
Moved by Paul Stephens
Second by Jamie Evans
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 7-0
 
NEW BUSINESS
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS

1. FORMATION OF EVENTS SUB-COMMITTEE?
   1. Brief chat about needs for future events.
2. ANNUAL REPORT
   1. Q1-3 ready for November meeting. Q-4 by EOY. Mark will work with Lisa on prose, subcommittee chairs to send committee reports to Mark, Dawn, Lisa, and Donna.

 
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Evans asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Donna DiPrinzio
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 7-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM
​

Caln Historical Commission Meeting Minutes
Hybrid, Wednesday August 16th, 2023
7:00 PM- 9:00PM
​

The meeting was called to order by Chair Evans at 7:05 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mark Evans followed the pledge of allegiance with members Roll call and announcement of guests in attendance.

1. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair/Liaison to OCHS
2. Donna DiPrinzio – Treasurer
3. Patty DeFroscia
4. Tom Parr
5. Lea Jennings
6. Lisa Shields
7. Jamie Evans (Remote)
8. Lorraine Tindaro
9. Cathy Callahan
10. Mark Evans – Chair

Historical Commission Member Attendees: 10 = Quorum (9 – in person, 1 remote)
Historical Commission Members Absent = 1
Historical Commission Guests (4)

• Abbey Swan
• Chris Parr
• Sam Weiner
• Helen Eckel

Approval of 6/14/23 Minutes
Chair Evans asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 6/14/23 meeting. Hearing none they asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the June 14th meeting.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Dawn C
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0
 
Approval of 7/12/23 Minutes
Chair Evans asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 7/12/23 meeting. Hearing none they asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the July 12th meeting.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Patty D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0
 
OLD Business

1. MEMBERSHIP

Mark Evans announced that he is stepping down as Secretary since he is now Chair and asked for a motion to approve.
Moved by Donna D
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0
Chair Evans asked if there were any members interested in becoming secretary. Hearing none, they opened the floor for nominations, and nominated Lisa Shields as the new secretary. Hearing no other nominations, the floor was closed, and Mark asked for a motion to elect Lisa Shields Secretary.
Moved by Dawn C
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0
 

1. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS

Mark requested that all sub committee reports be submitted to the secretary after the meeting.
Moved by Dawn C
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0
 

1. SPACKMAN FARM

• Looking at getting an electric line run under the house so you can have lighting and alarm for the property.
• Abby is working on getting quotes, nothing concrete at this point.
• Mark asked if Abby has any objections to getting a letter to the board so this can be budgeted for 2024?

1. MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA
   • Call for additional volunteers to work on upcoming projects Lisa volunteered and Donna also said she could help.
   • Tom noted that he had tried to get TV coverage out for Spackman Farm tour but no response from Fox 29.
   • Donna suggested next year perhaps we could get advertising in Chester County magazine or County Times ad placement.

i. Dawn pointed out that they have strict timelines for ad placement so we would have to get it in early.

• Lorraine would like something in the winter newsletter spotlighting the wedding in the Schoolhouse since that’s around the time they were married.

1. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
   • Mark Galant reviewing ordinance of what former Township manager sent. Mark asked that they wait until they get a newer version.
2. CALN AT RISK
   • Tom noted corn is high at Lloyd Farm.

1. EDGES MILL UPDATE
   1. Elizabeth R out of office until August 21st but they have not been very receptive believes they are voting in October or November.

 

1. SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS
   1. Dawn and Lisa were both present on 7/6. Dawn walked Lisa through how the tour show flow.
   2. No visitors this Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Both Lisa worked on pulling weeds and tiding up inside of schoolhouse for next month’s tour.
   3. Dawn suggested that it should be built into the tour the responsibility of tiding up the schoolhouse and outside.
   4. Dawn needs volunteers for September and October tour 9/3 or 10/1.

i. Jamie volunteers for 10/1 but we still need someone for 9/3.
ii. Abby noted she is working on Open House sign with VISTA Print graphics.
 

1. OCH LIASON REPORT
   1. Caln Community Day is coming up September 9th Dawn and Patty both need help setting up. Looking for volunteers.

i.Both Tom and Chris said they could help manning a table.
ii.Mark also noted he might be able to help.
iii.Dawn also noted we would be helping with Flea Market on 8/27 a joint venture with Downingtown if anyone had anything they would like to donate.
 

1. FINANCE REPORT
   1. Donna reported on the remaining 2023 budget after Spackman Farm tour.
   2. Referenced 2023 CTCH Expenditures as of 8/8 remaining balance $104.60.
   3. Update on proposed 2024 budget together.

 

1. 2023 TTVW FINAL RECAP             
   1. Mark remarked best we ever had. We saw 307 attendees
   2. 8th all-time best attendance – broke record for attendance since COVID.
   3. Perhaps next year we should have pre-registration for next year’s tour.

NEW BUSINESS

• Abby shared information on Caln Community Day and thought we should have the Schoolhouse open for tours as well.
• Need volunteers for Parks & Recreation as they are going to have an obstacle course and other activities that people can help with on 9/9.
• The Downingtown Rotary would like to be more involved with CHC perhaps hosting smaller events on a quarterly basis.
• Initial discussion of a Holiday event – 2nd week in December at the Spackman Farm.
  • Concern raised by Tom about lighting as this time of year it will likely be dark early.
  • Mark noted we could use generators to help with lighting and heat if needed.
  • We would have 90 days to begin planning but a consensus that they would be doable.

• Abby suggested CHC consider a 501 c3 as this will help with fundraising for Spackman Farm preservation.
  • Would need to have contact with the Board of Commissioners. Mark said he would opt out.
  • Tom, Donna and Sam said they would be interested in serving on with planning commission to qualify as a 501c3.
• We need to grow budget for 2024 perhaps submit as line items like they do for Parks & Recreation.
  • Abby recommended we add line items to Spackman Farm budget proposal.
    • Such as advertising budget, etc.
  • Discussed thank you for tour bus driver at Spackman Farm – if we could send $100.00 from remaining budget to Sean – Leah has his card with address.
  • Motion raised to use remaining funds of $100.00 for appreciation of job done.
  • Mark will follow up with township to see if they can pick up donation for “Line It Up” equine handler at tour with horses perhaps donate a bale of hay.

ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
Dawn needs shift coverage from 2PM -8PM for Caln Community Day.

• Tom and Chris can do the early shift 2-5:30PM
• Cathy will do 2nd shift

ADJOURNMENT
Chair Evans asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Lisa S
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed 10-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM
 

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

1. Paul Stephens – Chair
2. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair/ Liaison to OCHS
3. Mark Evans – Secretary
4. Donna DiPrinzio - Treasurer
5. Cathy Callahan
6. Tom Parr
7. Jamie Evans
8. Leah Jennings
9. Lorraine Tindaro

Historical Commission Member Attendees: 9 = Quorum
Historical Commission Members Absent (2):

1. Patty DeFroscia – Excused
2. Lisa Shields – Excused

Historical Commission Guests (2):

• Helen Eckel
• Sam Weiner

Approval of 6/14/23 Minutes
Secretary Evans apologized for not completing the minutes in time but will get them out along with the minutes from the July meeting.
OLD BUSINESS:

1. MEMBERSHIP
   1. Nothing to report. Active membership stands at 11.
2. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM
      1. Mark said we’d cover this under TTVW
   2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
      1. Lorraine T said she was working to get coverage of the Schoolhouse wedding article. She was reminded that we agreed nothing would go out until after the TTVW to ensure it gets covered.
   3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
      1. On hold until after TTVW
   4. CALN AT RISK
      1. Tom Parr reported the corn was growing at Lloyd Farm
3. EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE
   1. Cathy C reported that she emailed Elizabeth R on 6/20, has not heard back. She did have a conversation with Karen M at a fundraiser who hinted that the nomination for her house would go through.
   2. Mark reported that work on the PA Share district application was on hold until after TTVW
4. SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS
   1. We had a good turnout for the July tour. Dawn and Lisa will be handling August.
5. OCHS LIASON REPORT
   1. Deferred to after TTVW
6. FINANCE UPDATE
   1. Donna D reported that after the Porta Potty rental for TTVW ($190.00) and the purchase of the lavaliere microphones & waistband amplifiers ($251.96) we had $329.60 remaining in our budget for the year. There were 2 charges from the November SD Farm event (totaling $153.44) that had been reconciled to our 2023 budget. Mark said he thought they should have been against the 2022 allocation since they were both on a township card and we had no control over the allocation, so there’s a possibility we can recover those funds if needed for the remainder of 2023.
7. 2023 TTVW
   1. All systems go!
   2. Check-n with County scheduled for 7/18, full cast rehearsal on 7/18, costumes to be picked up in Reading 7/19. 
   3. Reviewed volunteer spreadsheet for coverage of all locations and tables.
   4. 2 golf carts will be hidden inside lower barn south, next to cow sled and chicken coup. Ambulance to be located behind barn on north side, out of sight. There will be 2 tour escorts per tour group.
   5. The steering committee and full membership further reviewed all details including further house and barn preparations, day-of event timing, etc.
   6. Dawn suggested we request that the township consider paying for the Porta Potty out of the general fund.

Chair Stephens asked for a motion request that the township consider paying for the Porta Potty out of the general fund.
Moved by ME
Second by DD
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed unanimously.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
There was no new business.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:
Chair Stephens announced that due to his impending move to Virginia, it was time to relinquish his role as chair of the historical commission, and that he had provided his letter of resignation to Secretary Evans. He thanked all for their support during his tenure and said how proud he was of all that we had accomplished together. He would like to stay on as a member of the commission as long as he is a resident of Caln.
Vice-Chair Coughlan then asked for a motion to accept Mr. Stephens resignation as chair.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Lorraine T
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Stephens turned the gavel over to Vice-Chair Coughlan, who respectfully declined the role of chair due to her responsibilities as President of OCHS and opened the floor to nominations for a new chairperson. She then nominated Mark Evans for the role of chairperson.
Second by Tom P
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Mark Evans unanimously elected new chair for remainder of term.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Evans asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Dawn C
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Chair Evans
Motion passed unanimously.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM
​

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Coughlan at 7:15 PM, technical difficulties accessing zoom caused the delay.  Secretary Evans announced that the meetings would no longer be recorded, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Mark Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.

1. Paul Stephens – Chair (joined after roll call)
2. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair/ Liaison to OCHS
3. Mark Evans – Secretary
4. Donna DiPrinzio - Treasurer
5. Patty DeFroscia
6. Tom Parr
7. Lisa Shields
8. Jamie Evans
9. Leah Jennings

Historical Commission Member Attendees: 8 = Quorum (7 in-person, 1 remote)
Historical Commission Members Absent (3):

1. Cathy Callahan – Excused
2. Lorraine Tindaro – NS 

Historical Commission Guests (1):

• Chris Parr

Approval of 5/17/23 Minutes
Vice-Chair Coughlan asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 5/17/23 meeting. Hearing none she asked for a motion to approve the minutes of theMay 17th meeting.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Patty D
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 9-0
OLD BUSINESS:

1. MEMBERSHIP
   1. Nothing to report. Active membership stands at 11.
2. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM
      1. Mark said he’d cover this under TTVW
   2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
      1. No report
   3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
      1. Mark said he is still working on Hx Resource list but has been slowed by TTVW preparations. It’s about to become time sensitive again as the BOC is restarting Zoning meetings.
   4. CALN AT RISK
3. EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE
   1. No report
4. SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS
   1. Tom P reported there were 7 guests, including 3 teachers who were fascinated.
5. OCHS LIASON REPORT
   1. Dawn C shared that the OCHS was excited to be a part of the TTVW and she was accumulating a list of volunteers. So far there has been an interest in being tour guides and working the OCHS and Refreshment tables.
   2. The Annual OCHS picnic and meeting will be held at the home of Patty DeFroscia on Sunday July 23rd at 4pm. All members are welcome, please sign up and consider bringing a course for the meal.
6. FINANCE UPDATE
   1. Donna D reported that we continue to have a balance of $771.56 remaining from our $1200.00 annual budget with expenses expected for the TTVW.
7. 2023 TTVW AND STEERING COMMITTEE REPORT
   1. STEERING COMMITTEE REPORT
      1. The Steering Committee met at the farm Saturday June 3rd to get a look inside all of the buildings and to begin the cleanup process. We came away with a priority list.
      2. Friday June 9th, Tom, Chris, and Mark spent some hours working inside the farmhouse.
         1. Great progress was made in the Kitchen and Living Room by removing decades of dirt, soot, and dust. 
         2. Brought down a couple of artifacts from upstairs to use as props: the 1942 mantle clock (which Tom has now cleaned up), and a turn of the century ceiling light fixture with glass globes (which Tom also cleaned up)
      3. Tuesday June 13th, Tom, Chris, Mark, and Jamie worked
         1. Cleared out 1st floor office of contents.
         2. Cleared out LR closet.
         3. Scraped peeling paint and plaster from ceilings and walls.
         4. Hung 2 antique ceiling light fixtures where the melted ceiling fans were in the Dining area and Office.
         5. Painted the wood covering broken windows black and hung exiting valences above.
         6. Dusted and waxed banister and stair rails in LR
         7. Dusted and waxed Mantle in LR
         8. Cleaned interior windows.
         9. Joe Shanley from the County PC came out and shot drone footage of the tour route.
      4. Next workday is scheduled for this Friday the 16th at 10am
         1. Farmhouse plan is to wet mop stairs and first floor, wax all stairs LR and partial stairs off Penrose Porch
         2. Upper Barn plan is to sweep and wet mop floor.
      5. Mark shared an updated TTVW PPT that included up-to-date “after” images 
   2. TRANSPORTATION UPDATE
      1. At their May 25th meeting, the BOC, township manager and Ingleside manager agreed to lend us 6 gold carts to provide accessibility for some of our tour guests. Tom P added we would need 5-6 volunteers to drive them.
      2. Anonymous donors contributed $2100 to rent an air-conditioned Replica Historic Trolley to ferry guests down the hill and back.
   3. PUBLIC WORKS UPDATE
      1. Repaired the rain gutter on the front of the house.
      2. Built the bridge needed to close the gap so tour guests can walk up to the door of the smokehouse/schoolhouse.
      3. Cleared away more overgrowth and killed weeds and poison ivy around the house.
      4. Cleared out the upper barn leaving a fresh pallet for us to play with.
   4. DISCUSSION
      1. In Keeping up with the theme of Time Machine, they discussed using each room on the first floor of the house for a different time period. Using museum stanchions, 5 visitors at a time can be allowed shallow access to enter the Living Room, the Dining Area, and the Penrose Porch? Living Room: Colonial to 1850’s, Dining Area: View of Colonial kitchen and 1930’s and 1950’s Kitchen ware and dining area? Penrose Porch: 1930’s and 1940’s - colonial ceiling close up, using mirrors, visitors will be able to “see” inside the 1930’s office.
      2. Robust list of props to be provided by OCHS and HX Com members: dress Forms, kitchen tools, farming tools, etc.
   5. SCRIPT, CASTING, LOGISTICS, VOLUNTEERS
      1. Lisa Shields reported she had a rough draft of Thomas Spackman’s script and read it to the group who were blown away.
      2. Mark reported there will be 6 speaking roles, only 1 of which was cast. There will also be 3 non-speaking roles, and multiple non-featured background cast of all ages and time periods, sprinkled around farm.
      3. Paul S led a thorough and spirited discussion revolving around the economics of the farm family during each period portrayed. That early-mid 19th century growth of railroads and better transportation led to more prosperity, and the civil war created a boon time for farms that could produce goods for the war effort. He discussed what crops were probably grown, what was produced for market and what was for self-consumption. Same with the livestock. They were also producing leather and due to the sawmill suggests they were also providing wood. Paul stated that Spackman-Davis Farm with its barn, smokehouse, springhouse, and farmhouse is a fairly complete example – basically what was needed for a working farm.   

 
NEW BUSINESS:
There was no new business.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:
There was no new business.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Mark E
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed 9-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM
​

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Coughlan at 7:15 PM, technical difficulties accessing zoom caused the delay.  Secretary Evans announced that the meetings would no longer be recorded, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Mark Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.

1. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair/ Liaison to OCHS
2. Mark Evans – Secretary
3. Donna DiPrinzio - Treasurer
4. Patty DeFrocia
5. Tom Parr
6. Lorraine Tindaro
7. Lisa Shields

Historical Commission Member Attendees: 7 = Quorum (7 in-person, 0 remote)
Historical Commission Members Absent (4):

1. Paul Stephens – Excused
2. Cathy Callahan – Excused
3. Jamie Evans – Excused
4. Leah Jennings – Excused

Historical Commission Guests (2):

• Nat Belluso (Zoom)
• Mike Bedrick

Approval of 4/19/23 Minutes
Vice-Chair Coughlan asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 4/19/23 meeting. Hearing none she asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the April 19th meeting.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Patty D
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 7-0
OLD BUSINESS:

1. MEMBERSHIP
   1. Nothing to report. Active membership stands at 11.
2. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM
      1. Mark had no update on possible repairs to house roof and porch, but said he’d included our concerns in his 5/11 Hx Com update to the BOC.
      2. Patty D reported that the rain gutter on the farmhouse still has not been repaired and has been hanging loose for over a month. Mark shared that he’d also mentioned this concern in his 5/11 BOC update and afterward received an email from Mr. Stackhouse that the township was renting a lift on 5/15 to make the repair. Tom P will follow up.
   2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
      1. Lorraine reported she had sent the transcribed LaRusa/Real schoolhouse wedding interview to the Hx Com members and also shared it and accompanying photos with Abbey for the Caln Newsletter. Dawn said she’d like to see the images first, and it was realized not all Hx Com members had received the draft article. Lorraine said she’d resend, and Dawn requested that Abbey be asked to hold off on publishing until after we’d all reviewed it.
      2. Mark suggested that with the TTVW is only 60 days away, it might be best to hold off publishing the Schoolhouse Wedding article until the TTVW is behind us – we don’t want to have competing press releases for such an important event. Lorraine agreed, it would make for a great fall article.
   3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
      1. Mark E said changes to HPO are complete, still working on Hx Resource list. Changes are based on guidelines to meet CLG eligibility as shared by Jim Buczala of CCHPN and Megan McNish of the SHPO.
   4. CALN AT RISK
      1. Tom Parr reported that the farmer has been at Lloyd Farm on a couple of occasions in the last couple of weeks. Doesn’t appear to have planted anything yet, but corn doesn’t need to be in the ground before the end of May, so there’s still’’ time. He’s had trouble reconnecting with Peggy Chillan at Copeland Run School re visiting Mary Louise Lloyd’s house, but will try again. There have been rumors that the Farm is up for sale.
      2. Nat Belluso introduced himself as an attorney who used to live here and has a strong affinity for Lloyd Far. He’s now in West Chester but would like to help preserve Lloyd Farm any way he can. Mark addressed Mr. Belluso and said unfortunately the farm is privately owned, so neither the township or the historical commission has any power over what the owner or a potential buyer does there as long as it complies with the township zoning ordinance. The Hx Com has been active in trying to save the farm over the years, and that he himself had been a leader of the SLF movement before becoming a Twp Commissioner. The best the Hx Com cn hope for is a buyer who believes in historic preservation, and a seat at the table when the township is discussing any potential development of the farm. He added that both he and Tom heard many rumors about a pending sale while working at Lloyd Park Riparian Buffer Tree Maintenance Day. Rumor is that a major health care facility was interested in buying the farm. He added that a hospital wouldn’t fit there, but something the size of the medical offices at Penn Medicine Valley Forge or Mainline Health Concordville would not only fit but take up less than 1/3 of the land. Since the owner/developer’s original plan called for using the entire farm in order to make a profit, and any health care facility that might come in wouldn’t need to exploit everything to realize a strong ROI, they would be more likely to save the house and ruins and provide many amenities to satisfy the local residents. Tom P added it would be a win/win if that is what happens.       
      3. Vice-Chair Coughlan asked if there was anything new on the Buchanan House. Mark said not that he knew of.
3. EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE

1. No report.
2. Mark reported no progress made in PAShare, he’s been too occupied with TTVW.

1. SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS
   1. Dawn said she’d spoken with Cathy who reported that 5/7 was a great first tour of the year with a nice group of visitors. The children loved Santa’s Workshop. Donna shared her experience as a “trainee” that day, it was her first time in the schoolhouse and learned a lot. Tom and Chris Parr are hosting the June tour, Donna D has July 2nd and will be accompanied by Mark and Licia, Lisa Shields is scheduled for August 6th and Mark said he may be able to help that day as well. 
   2. Tom P has the key for those tour guides who need one.
   3. Tom reported on lighting the schoolhouse. Chief Elias suggested installing hard wired puck lights on the outside above each window. Abbey S is getting a quote for the puck lights. He added that Paul Mullen had wanted the house better lit, and Abbey is having an electrician look at the flood light outside the back of the house that is not working. 
2. OCHS LIASON REPORT
   1. Dawn reported that the May 6th OCHS Flea Market was their best ever and thanked the Hx Com members who helped out. She said they sold their first Spackman-Davis Farm print and had some wonderful items. The high-quality items that did not sell that day will be available for purchase at the Downingtown Vintage Flea Market.
3. FINANCE UPDATE
   1. Donna reported that there have been no new expenditures and that our available budget funds remain at $925.
   2. Our 2023 CCHPN membership has been comped by CCHPN as a gesture for failing to meet the deadline to publish our should Fall Ledger ad. Dawn C asked that we thank Jim B at the CCHPN BOD dinner.
   3. Donna noted that Dawn had suggested we consider funding the purchase of a historically accurate 26-Star Flag for the Schoolhouse. Patty D said the Pimms were Quakers, and since were pacificists they didn’t typically have American flags on their property. Mark E asked this be tables until we find out more about Quakers use of American flags.
   4. Donna also noted Dawn had suggested we look into having Mr. Pimm’s schoolhouse portrait repaired. Mark noted that until we know what the cost of the TTVW will be, we should hold off. Dawn thought it would be a good idea to have the portraits appraised – a no cost option to better our understanding of their value and whether or not the one needs to be repaired. All agreed.

Vice-Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to approve temporarily removing the Pimm portraits from the schoolhouse to be appraised.
Moved by Mark E
Second by Patty D
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 7-0

1. ANNUAL REPORT FOR BOC
   1. Mark reported Paul Mullin commented on the 2022 annual report at the 4/27 BOC Meeting. He was impressed with the report and what we’ve been able to accomplish. Inquired what PAShare was and what we use it for and asked for clarification on some terminology. Finance Director Lisa Swan said she’d like to read it and asked for a copy. Mark sent one to her electronically.
2. 2023 TTVW STEERING COMMITTEE REPORT
   1. Mark reported the Steering Committee met on Sunday April 30th and Sunday May 7th, and they’ve been having a ball! He wanted to give updates on some of what they’ve been working on and share a presentation with the full group. He asked that everyone jot down questions as we go and wait until after the presentation to ask them as many of those questions may be answered along the way.

• The TTVW is tentatively called “Time Machine” and will literally be a trip through time at the farm. Guests will park on the hill across from the farm, register, and enjoy period-correct refreshments both before and after the tour. They’ll be ferried back and forth from hill to farm by an air-conditioned Replica Historic Trolley.
• Once guests arrive at the farm they travel from point to point by foot or by golf cart (as needed). At each stop they’ll meet an actor portraying a specific character, not just someone reading from a tour script. We’ll have semi-pro actors to fill any roles not filled by Hx Com members. Guests will enter the barn, look in open doors on the house, see inside the schoolhouse-smokehouse, the springhouse, the root cellar and the stable. When they depart from the parking lot they’ll do a drive-by of Edges Mill District and end up at Beaver Creek Tavern. Here’s a presentation we put together. There will be “background” characters along the way. Farm animals including horses, a steer, chickens, and we’re working on sheep.
  1. Mark then shared a Storyboard Powerpoint presentation. After which he added the following updates: 

• Donna secured the limited liability insurance certificate from the township, and it's been sent on to CCPC.
• Dawn spoke with Stuart at Beaver Creek Tavern and they're very excited to be the final stop on the tour. We can set up stationary exhibits and have a couple of reenactors inside and outside the tavern.
• Dawn spoke with Cathy who has graciously offered to let us use her beautiful large bell. We just need to take it down and out it back up when we’re finished with it.
• Mark picked up our brochures from the county last week and they look great! He forgot to bring the box with him, but Tom and Patty had brochures to show everyone.
• Mark reported that we received a quote of $2100 from the trolley company, which is way more than our annual budget. We have a couple of individuals who have offered to donate the funds needed to OCHS earmarked for the trolley rental. Dawn added that the last time there was a trolley rental that the grant was applied for by the township and earmarked for OCHS.
• CCPC Planner Joe Shanley has offered to take drone footage of the tour routes that would be used to promote the tours on CCPC’s social media channels. Dawn asked if that was only for us or for all tour sites. Mark said it was for all. We’ll need to get permission from the township.
• We’ll present our plan to the BOC meeting at their 5/25 BOC meeting. This is where we’ll seek assistance on matters of hill access, traffic control, and use of golf carts. Mark and Dawn asked that all Hx Com members prioritize being at the BOC meeting in person that night. Lisa said she’d be in Seattle but will try to attend by zoom.
• Mark and Lisa will be getting down to writing the actual character scripts soon.​‌
• Licia's and Donna’s costumes have arrived, and they look great! Patty added that she’d also purchased a new costume.
• Tom reported he’d been in touch with Len at Taylor Music and John Hayes at Rentex regarding renting lavaliers with waistband amplifiers. Mark clarified the difference between a lavalier and the headset mics being supplied by the CCPC. Between our rentals and what will be provided we’ll have enough. All agreed that the tour group guides need not be amplified.
• Patty and Dawn will work on flowers for the porch and at key locations around the house.
• Patty reported that the farmer has been planting, fingers crossed that it’s corn!
• Lisa said she has the first aide kit we’ll need for the day and gave it to Tom to hold onto (Chris Parr will be onsite RN for the event).

A lengthy Q and A discussion and idea sharing followed:
Q: How to handle questions asked by tourists? We need to keep things moving and don’t want to break the 4th wall between the actor and the audience any more than necessary. We have to keep each tour to only 30-minutes.
A: Mark suggested that at registration, visitors are encouraged to not interact with the actors, and hold all questions for after they’ve returned from the farm to the hill. Patty suggested each group be assigned a guide to keep things moving along. Mark said that the script will call for people to leave one area for the next, but that extra nudge would be great. Tom suggested that the tour time clock starts when the visitors arrive at the Bank Barn.
Q: Concerned about livestock – how do we keep the guests safe? How is livestock transported to us? How do we keep the livestock safe? Where will they be located?
A: Guests will be forbidden from getting near the livestock, and unassuming typical farm-like chicken wire barriers will be out in place.
George at Jefferis Family Farm offered to provide chickens which will be kept in vintage coops we found inside the barn. The chicken coops will be used in the barn, and along the meadow where the windmill used to stand.
His brother Dan (who actually worked the farm when the Zinn’s were caring for it) will bring 2 horses – one to be tied up in the paddock below the barn, the other to be tied up at the stable near the schoolhouse - there’s plenty of hay already at each location to keep them busy and happy.
The idea of having the steers offered by George Jefferis was nixed as they can get a bit nasty.
Lisa S said she might have a connection for a cow and/or a calf and will look into it right away. The cow/calf could be at one of 3 locations – in the barn or in the meadow.
Donna said she’s been in discussions with Audrey at 4H for sheep but they haven’t been able to guarantee anything. Donna is friends with the owner of Foreg Hill Farms and will contact her for sheep. The sheep will be kept on ropes in the meadow with a spinning wheel nearby for ambience. Patty added that she knows someone at 4H she’ll also nudge.
 
Q: Parking: What is the condition of the roadway leading up the hill and how do we organize parking situation?
A: Mark said Jeff had put together a draft parking diagram. Mark said the diagram was great, only that it needed to be edited with the parking area and registration area are swapped out. Tom said he and Jeff had checked out the area and there was more than enough room for 300+ cars up there, and a registration and refreshment table and for the Trolley to park. Our personal cars can be used to establish parking lanes and cones be added for definition.
The dirt/gravel road is a little bumpy, but no more than should be expected. There is a large dip at the entrance curb to the driveway that needs to be filled with some gravel.
We’ll have tents to cover the registration and refreshment tables as the sun will be low in the sky and directly on them at that time of day.
Mark suggested we have a generator up there to power a large fan or two. He will circulate the draft parking plan for all to see.
 
Q: What doors will be open? What will visitors see? What props do we need?
A: The lower barn door will be open with a view of the paddock. The upper barn north door will be open, and visitors will be allowed inside. There will be a demarcation line for how far inside they can go. Tom noted there were some tools in there, some saws – we’ll need to double check.
The house will have 2 doors open – the west entrance to the living room and the east kitchen door. No one will be allowed inside. We’ll need to clean up some, and more some things around so visitors don’t see the computer printer and where the floor has buckled. Dawn said she has a friend who can lend us mannequins for inside the doors, worst case we use cardboard cutouts. Props for the kitchen include an antique flour sifter, iron, lemon squeezer, cherry pitter, bean pot, and mixing bowls. For the living room there’s a firewood rack and other items. Most tours have empty houses, the more we can fill and decorate, the better.
The root cellar, schoolhouse, stable, and springhouse doors will all be open. No one will be permitted inside. Patty and Dawn said OCHS has a school desk, a chalkboard easel, and bell for inside the schoolhouse – perhaps the desk can stay there after the tour is over. There are also a basket of eggs, a metal milk jug, and a butter churn is easy to replicate for outside the springhouse. Leah may have a spinning wheel.
Tom said we’ll need a generator near the springhouse building to power lights inside the schoolhouse and springhouse.
The Front southern porch will be barricaded off, but the 1940’s glider will be painted by Tom P and placed between the 2 doors.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
There was no new business.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:

1. It was suggested that we choose a day when all members of the steering committee can do a walkthrough of the farm. We compared our schedules and decided on Saturday June 3rd, time TBD. We’ll need keys unless Abbey is willing to spend part of her Saturday walking us around. We would prefer not to ask her for more than she’s already doing, we don’t want to overburden anyone. We’ll schedule steering committee meeting after the 5/25 presentation to the BOC.

 

1. Vice-Chair Coughlan reported that Mark E had suggested we reschedule our June and July meetings due to conflicts, and that she and Chair Stephens agreed with the changes:
   1. Mark shared that our June meeting regularly scheduled for the 21st would be the same night of the CCHPN Annual Volunteer Awards Dinner, and since we’ve been nominated for the Municipality Award, it would be great if we could all be at the dinner. Tom P asked if we knew anything about non-members being allowed to attend. Mark said he’d ask on Friday at the CCHPN BOD meeting.  

Vice-Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to reschedule our June meeting to Wednesday June 14th.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Mark E
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 7-0

1. Mark shared that our July meeting, regularly scheduled for the 19th would be the night before our TTVW

Vice-Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to reschedule our July meeting to Wednesday July 12th.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 7-0

1. Dawn C if we could invite Abbey Swan as our guest for the CCHPN Annual Volunteer Awards Dinner, and purchase her ticket? Mark thought that was a great idea and added that we should also allow her to invite a guest. He shared that the CCHPN has been slow to get info out on the dinner but that the last he heard they were discussing a ticket price of $20-$25 each.

Vice-Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to invite Abbey Swan +1 to be our guests at the June 21st CCHPN CCHPN Annual Volunteer Awards Dinner.
Moved by Tom P
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 7-0
 
ADJOURNMENT
Vice-Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Mark E
Second by Donna D
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 7-0
Meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM
​

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Coughlan at 7:10 PM. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was not being recorded due to technical issues, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Mark Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.

1. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair/ Liaison to OCHS
2. Mark Evans – Secretary
3. Donna DiPrinzio - Treasurer
4. Cathy Callahan
5. Patty DeFrocia
6. Tom Parr
7. Jamie Evans
8. Lorraine Tindaro
9. Lisa Shields

Historical Commission Member Attendees: (9 = Quorum)
Historical Commission Members Absent (2):

1. Paul Stephens – Excused
2. Leah Jennings – Excused

Historical Commission Guests (4):

• Chris Parr
• Paul Mullin (Zoom)
• Jim Buczala
• Mike Bedrick

Approval of 1/18/23 Minutes
Vice-Chair Coughlan asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 1/18/23 meeting. Hearing none she asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the January 18th meeting.
Moved by Donna D
Second by Tom Parr
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 9-0
 
Approval of 2/15/23 Minutes
Vice-Chair Coughlan asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 2/15/23 meeting. Hearing none she asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the February 15th meeting.
Moved by Patty DeFrocia
Second by Tom Parr
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 9-0
 
GUEST PROGRAM: Jim Buczala – Vice Chair East Brandywine Hx Com/VP CCHPN
Mr. Buczala spoke to us about challenges and successes in East Brandywine. They have a 7-member Hx Com. He talked about their efforts to preserve Bondsville Mill and to establish Bondsville Mill Park, and how their learnings could be applied to Spackman-Davis Farm. “It’s not just about preserving the past, but applying it to the future”. Emphasized the importance of having a grant writer. There are DCNR grants, PECO grants for park development, Apple grants. They received over $500K from state and county grants for the park. Most county grants are 10% match first round, 0% for 2nd round. It took years and is still in process. Suggested a DOE for SD Farm would help us get grants. We discussed potential issues that could arise doing a public/private long-term lease for SD Farm improvements. County does not like you to make $ off of an investment. Breaking even is one thing, making income is another. Plus, township ownership makes all construction more expensive. Perhaps start our own 501C-3 and work outside of the township. Need a lot of attention, like they have now at BM. Newsletters, news articles, a weekly email. On the cusp of developing a real FR program. Currently there is a township foundation that receives donations earmarked for the park. We discussed our pending HPO – and the CLG process. We need to remove all mention of classifications from our HPO or we would NOT meet the CLG guidelines.  Touched on the coming America 250 celebration.
OLD BUSINESS:

1. MEMBERSHIP
   1. Mark E. shared that Jamie Evans and Lisa Shields were both appointed to the Hx Com at the 2/23/23 BOC meeting, and to make sure to take the time to get to know them. Active membership is now 11.
2. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM
      1. Mark E reported no update on possible repairs to house roof and porch/ Walking Tour on agenda for discussion.
   2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
      1. Lorraine reported she would be meeting with Elaine LaRoche in the following week for an interview and to get photos of her wedding album.
      2. Mark reported that the CCHPN Ledger with our article had been published. He said that puts a period on our 2022 marketing efforts.
   3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
      1. Nothing new to report.
   4. LLOYD FARM
      1. Tom Parr said farmer was out planting, and that’s a good sign. He took video of it.
      2. It was suggested that the Lloyd Farm sub-com be renamed “Caln at Risk” to include and focus on all our at-risk resources such as Lloyd, the schoolhouse, etc.

Moved by Donna D
Second by Mark E
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 9-0

1. EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE

1. Mark reported he shared the 2022 Micki McAllister documents with all. They need to be tweaked for DOE. Micki had posed several questions that still need to be answered and he needs help getting those answers.
2. Mark shared that he has started a DOE application for the milling district in PAShare and has the addresses, main photos, and map completed, and showed slides of the additional things we’re going to need. Cathy said she had a detailed history of her house that Micki McAllister had prepared, and then provided it for us to use as a model for the other resources in the district. Donna D offered to type it into word.

1. OCHS LIASON REPORT
   1. Excited about their March 22nd Thorndale Coal Warf Program at the Firehouse. Coal Warf was a huge part of Caln History and no longer exists.
   2. OCHS meeting and clean up are 3/22 at Meetinghouse after program.
   3. New marker is up on 340 – thank you Patty!
   4. New member – Paul Mullin and family.
   5. Praised Paul Stephens for his program in February – unfortunately it was Super Bowl Sunday. Hope he’ll do it again.
   6. Dawn reported that Saturday May 6th is the OCHS Flea Market.
   7. OCHS is supporting the Hx Com, thrilled about Spackman Walking Tour.
2. FINANCE UPDATE
   1. Donna reported that our license for PAShare license was renewed 3/7/23 for $275, leaving a balance of $925.
3. ANNUAL REPORT FOR BOC
   1. Mark reported the annual report was sent to membership for review on 3/9, asked for comments or corrections, then proposed a motion that Chair Stephens send it to the BOC ASAP.

Moved by Patty D
Second by Lorraine T
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 9-0
 

1. 2023 WALKING TOUR
   1. Mark said dropped the ball on getting a date for our “Spackman Day of Service”. Hoping to get it done next week.
   2. Will send out a doodle poll to membership to determine possible days. We don’t all have to be out there at once, can do small groups.
   3. It will be fun. We’ll knock the socks off the county. Confirmed tour is 5-7pm, not 7-9pm.

NEW BUSINESS:
There was no new business.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:

1. Tom P reported on “Engage by Cell” service for self-guided tours. $2-3K/year. Keep in mind for down the road.

ADJOURNMENT
Vice-Chair Coughlan asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Mark E
Second by Tom Parr
Vote called by Vice-Chair Coughlan
Motion passed 9-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM
​

OPENING:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Stephens at 7:09 PM. Secretary Evans announced that the meeting was not being recorded due to technical issues, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Mark Evans continued with Member Roll Call and introduction of guests.

1. Paul Stephens – Chair
2. Dawn Coughlan – Vice Chair/ Liaison to OCHS
3. Mark Evans – Secretary
4. Donna DiPrinzio - Treasurer
5. Cathy Callahan
6. Patty DeFrocia
7. Tom Parr
8. Jamie Evans
9. Lorraine Tindaro
10. Lisa Shields

Historical Commission Member Attendees: 10 = Quorum (9 in-person, 1 remote)
Historical Commission Members Absent (1):

1. Leah Jennings – Excused

Historical Commission Guests (4):

• Rachel Wick
• Paul Mullin (Zoom)
• Mike Bedrick

Approval of 3/15/23 Minutes
Chair Stephens asked if there were any comments or questions regarding the minutes of our 3/15/23 meeting. Hearing none he asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the March 15th meeting.
Moved by Tom Parr
Second by Dawn Coughlan
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed 10-0
 
OLD BUSINESS:

1. MEMBERSHIP
   1. Mark E. had nothing to report. Active membership stands at 11.
2. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS
   1. SPACKMAN FARM
      1. Mark had no update on possible repairs to house roof and porch.
      2. Dawn C reported that the rain gutter on the farmhouse was damaged during a recent storm and has been hanging loose for weeks. Paul S said he would reach out to Ray Stackhouse to ask for it to be repaired. Mark E added that we’ve been lucky with no vandalism since last summer, but something like that hanging off the house send the message that no one is taking care of or checking up on the house. The sooner it’s fixed, the safer the farm will be.
   2. MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA
      1. Mark reported that at the CCHPN luncheon Laura D encouraged all townships hosting Town Walks to get the news out via press releases, social media headlines, etc.
      2. Lorraine reported she had conducted an interview with Elaine LaRusa and Vincent Real and played a voice simulated recording. She’ll type it into word for the commission to review/edit.
   3. HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
      1. Mark E shared an ordinance update: Based on Jim Buczala’s comments about CLG eligibility, Mark has been making changes to both the HPO and the Hx Resource list. He also had a brief conversation with Megan McNish at the CCHPN Luncheon, followed by a zoom session on 4/4 to be sure we’re moving in the right direction. Paul S clarified that if we adopt our own criteria, similar to the National Register criteria, we’re not reliant on the secondary source such as the NR. Mark hopes to have a rough draft of the changes ready for our May meeting.
   4. CALN AT RISK
      1. Tom Parr reported that PERK tests have been performed at Lloyd Farm. The farmer has been over there killing weeds, but it doesn’t appear there is any agricultural use going on this year after all. He also said he’s about to follow up with Peggy Chillan at Copeland Run School re visiting Mary Louise Lloyd’s house. As the school year will be over soon, she should have more availability.  
      2. Chair Stephens reported that there is a prospective buyer for Buchanan House who met with him, Vice Chair Coughlan, and Secretary Evans 4/14 at the Caln Meetinghouse. The prospective buyer shared his ideas for the property, which seemed to fit our goals that it be preserved and adaptively reused. Wants to open his real estate office on the property. Also said he’s interested in finding a lessee to run the restaurant part of the building. Overall, a positive and good meeting. There could be zoning issues with the township that are not our purview.
3. EDGES’ MILL HISTORIC DISTRICT UPDATE

1. Cathy C reported that she has been to the Chester County History Center researching the EM Corner House. Is surprised how little there is on it, but excited and will be going back again soon so we’ll have all we need to get the DOE submitted through PAShare.
2. Mark reported Donna D typed up Cathy’s document, but that he has not had time to dig into it.

1. SCHOOLHOUSE TOURS
   1. Tours about to start. Need a coordinator for tour guide schedule. Dawn offered to take that on. Said we need June, July August. Cathy and Leah have May, Tom and Chris took June 4th, Donna took July, Lisa took August. She added that the schoolhouse tours are part of our mission. With many new members, Dawn suggested they attend a tour for training to get a feel for it, the script is in the desk drawer.
   2. Tom P will make copies of the key, we’ve had problems with making sure the guides can open the door. Paul S suggested we start a list for keeping track of who has keys and when they’re returned.
   3. Tom reported that he’d done research on alarming the schoolhouse (after the historic painting was stolen from FedEx Exton). He sent his recommendations and details to Chief Elias.  
   4. Lighting the schoolhouse came up. Tom P said he would meet with Abbey at the schoolhouse to investigate why it’s not lit at night. Paul M said he thought it was always lit at night, but something must be wrong now. Dawn C said the batteries in the windows candles need replacing. Patty said there is a light above the door that seems to not be working. There was discussion of solar spotlights being placed around the building. Paul M thought it would be nice to have it light all the way around. 
2. OCHS LIASON REPORT
   1. Dawn reported that Saturday May 6th is the OCHS Flea Market and had posters we can share. Looking for more vendors.
   2. Mark asked about new membership rates for 2023. Dawn said $15 individual/$25 family. Added that membership funds are coming in slowly this year.
3. FINANCE UPDATE
   1. Donna clarified our process for using budget funds – no more reimbursements. All expenditures must be approved by BOC, and invoices sent to Finance Dept.
   2. She added that our CCHPN membership should be coming up soon.
4. ANNUAL REPORT FOR BOC
   1. Mark reported the annual report was sent to the BOC. So far none of the BOC members have acknowledged receipt or offered comments or questions.
   2. He added that he sent a copy of the Finance Section to the Finance Dept. so Lisa Swan is aware of how we’ve been using our budget.
5. 2023 WALKING TOUR
   1. Mark said dropped the ball on getting a date for our “Spackman Day of Service”. Need to coordinate with Ray Stackhouse. Hoping to get it done within the next week.
   2. We received a packet with requirements and guides. Perhaps we can divide and conquer on these?
      1. First deadline is May 15th to provide liability insurance certificate of a minimum of $1mm for the day. If the township won’t cover the cost, perhaps we use part of our budget funds to carry the insurance. Donna offered to handle the insurance research. Paul M said we should send the insurance expenditure request to the BOC ASAP to be on the agenda for the next week’s meeting. We need BOC approval for all our expenditures.

Chair Stephens asked for a motion to approve use of funds for Liability Insurance and ask BOC for permission.
Moved by Mark E
Second by Tom Parr
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed 10-0
 

1. Whatever we can do to ease the burden on Public Works Dept. by doing ground maintenance ourselves. Paul S asked for confirmation that Twp will provide topsoil, Mark will send out a doodle poll to membership to determine possible days. We don’t all have to be out there at once, can do small groups.
2. Dawn shared that OCHS has a number of volunteers already signed up to help out at the event. Paul S suggested we send out a sign-up sheet for individual roles. Dawn asked if we should discuss division of responsibilities tonight? Do we have a publicity plan? Abbey will design our brochure, and we don’t want to ask more of her. Paul S asked about parking. Mark E suggested offsite ideas. 
3. Chair Stephens suggested we form a TTVH Steering Committee to meet independently to make decision quickly and report back to the full Commission. Tom P said we need a script writer. Mark and Lisa volunteered. Tom is thinking outside the box for parking. Paul S asked we schedule a meeting date for 1st steering committee meeting now. Donna suggested the weekend of the 30th, we agreed on Sunday. Mark offered his house to meet. We will stay under a quorum.
4. Tom will send an email to Ray S to schedule a walkthrough. Paul S said we’ll have a better idea of what logistics allow after the walkthrough.

NEW BUSINESS:
Paul S asked if we want to approve an expenditure of our funds to cover alarming and lighting for the schoolhouse. Mark thought both might be covered by the township. Paul S tabled that discussion. Paul asked if Tom could reach out to the chief to regarding the alarm system.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:

1. Chair Stephens announced that he is in the process of moving to a farm in Virginia, and May or June will be his last official meeting before he has to step down as chair, and once he moves, he will legally need to resign from the Hx Com. Mark said Paul is irreplaceable.
2. AMERICA 250
   1. Mark reported that American 250 was a big topic at CCHPN luncheon.
      1. “Continue the Journey toward a more perfect union”.
         1. 250 approach different from 1976 track. “Who, What, How”? “Inclusivity, Diversity, Participation”. The American Experience through different eyes. Our eclectic, shared experience. “What happened? Who have we become? Where have we not used the spirit of democracy effectively?” Where does history connect to today? From Native Americans to Penn’s values to agriculture, transportation, mills, taverns. “What were these people thinking about that made us different form the rest of the world?”
      2. Mark will send his notes around to all, once the walking tour out of the way.
3. Donna added that she’ll be getting more details on our invoicing process. 
4. Paul Mullin thanked Paul S for all that he has done. He shared that it’s been a pleasure to know him and wished him all the best. He noted that we’re a great group, and all so involved. That he appreciates us and so does the BOC.

ADJOURNMENT
Chair Stephens asked for a motion to adjourn.
Moved by Lisa S
Second by Mark E
Vote called by Chair Stephens
Motion passed 9-0
Meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PM
​