Minutes
The May 11, 2023 meeting of the Pittsville Area Historical Society was called to order by President Chris Buchanan. The secretary and treasurer reports were presented and approved.
Old business included a report by Chris Buchanan on the Native American Artifact Show that was held on April 29 at the Community Hall. She estimated that there were approximately 200 people in attendance. They heard a talk from Jeff Lindow about the Native American settlement that was on Skunk Hill (Powers Bluff). He showed a video of dogs finding the remains of the inhabitants. Their handlers marked the area where the dogs indicated that the remains were. The people were able to view arrowhead collections, baskets, beadwork, pottery and other Native American handiwork from 12 displays. Chris set up the museum display and her own large collection of Indian baskets and memorabilia. Museum members had refreshments available throughout the day. It was a very successful event.
Marlene Neve reported on A Day at Scranton School. Pittsville third graders will attend on May 22 & 25. Nekoosa students will attend on May 30 & June 1 and Grove School students will attend on June 5. The students start the day by changing into period clothes, receive their new identity for the day and have their picture taken. They then raise the flag and spend the morning as students did in the past. At afternoon recess, they split into small groups for cursive writing, using an abacus for math and reading by lamplight.
A representative from the USDA came to inspect the barn and farm shed. They awarded a grant for the project. He toured the museum also and was pleased with the whole complex. He will send the final paperwork out soon.
Christ Nepper has been busy fixing the many things that old buildings require. He remodeled the downstairs this past winter, put up motion sensor lights outside this spring and fixed the steps on the east side of the building. We are so thankful for Chris and Randy Fochs for all that they do around the complex.
We are holding a brat fry at the Cenex station on June 24 from 9:00-4:00. We will be selling brats, hotdogs, pulled pork sandwiches, chip snack bags, homemade cookies & bars and beverages. Stop in to support your local historical society.
The Ken Sherwood family sent a very generous donation in his name to support our various projects. We are so very grateful to them and all who have supported us over the years. Local businesses have always said yes when we have asked for donations. Gardners donated the mulch that enhances our flower beds. John and Gale Baum were always ready to donate food items. It is amazing to live in a community of such generous people.
We will be open from 9:00-3:00 on each Thursday until the end of October. We will also be open on the second and fourth Sunday of the month of June, July and August from 11:00-3:00. Stop in to see your area’s history.
Motion to adjourn.