Minutes For Past Meetings
Learn about the Eagle County Historical Society
November 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, November 7, 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, Marion Laughlin, Willy Powell, Sandy Van Campen, Janice Tonz, Joanne Cermak
New Business
Eagle Visitor Center-Eagle town manager Brandi Rietter met with the board to discuss proposed changes to the Eagle Visitor Center. Changes include reduced days and hours and elimination of retail. The board was concerned about the impact these changes might have on the ECHS History Museum. The board requested that the town partner with the historical society in order to promote visibility for ECHS and the museum- aligning center hours with museum hours, providing educational and interpretive material at the center, and increasing communication regarding the Visitor Center between the town and ECHS.
Town Board Presentation-Kathy will present the ECHS annual report to the Eagle Town Board on Tuesday, November 12. Meeting starts at 6:00 p.m.
Administrative Assistant changes-The functions of the administrative assistant position has been divided into two separate jobs, museum operations and administrative duties. Kathy presented drafts of job descriptions for these two positions. The board reviewed the hour/budget report prepared by Kathy and made a few suggestions for additions to the drafts.
Minturn Walking Tour-The town of Minturn has requested ECHS’s participation in the walking tour of the town on December 14 and has made a $500 donation to ECHS. The walking tour coincides with the Minturn Christmas Market. ECHS members, dressed as historical Minturn residents, will be positioned at various historical sites in the town’s business district and provide short talks about the character. Possible characters and locations were discussed.
School Training-History Colorado will present a training for ECHS volunteers for its new Ute School Education Program on Tuesday, November 12 at 1:30 at the Eagle Library. This new program can be used in programs for local classrooms.
2019-2020 Proposed Budget-Willy went over the numbers for the current fiscal year and presented a new proposed budget for board members to review.
Continuing Business
Fundraising Efforts for the Barn Roof-ECHS applied for two grants but both were rejected. Grant writer Ellie Caryl has set the basis for grant applications and will continue to pursue new options. Kathy suggested that ECHS needed some professional help with fundraising efforts. She talked with Kristen Kenney Williams, a PR expert who could lead the Raise the Roof Campaign. The board reviewed a letter describing her ideas and a motion was made and passed to hire her services. She will start by targeting a grassroots effort for Colorado Gives Day, December 10.
Membership and Past Perfect-Marion reported on the membership drive and updated the board on the status of Past Perfect. ECHS is still waiting for the implementation of the new version 5 upload.
Save the Date
Ute Education Program Training-Tuesday, November 12, 1:30 p.m. at the Eagle Library
Eagle Town Board Annual Report-Tuesday, November 12, 6:00 p.m.
Colorado Gives Day-Tuesday, December 10
Rally-Monday, December 9, 4:00 p.m. at Maya in Avon
Honk and Wave-December 10, 7:45-8:30 a.m. Eagle Diner roundabout
September 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, September 5, 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, New Business Marion Laughlin, Willy Powell, Sandy Van Campen, Lynn Albers, Joanne Cermak
New Business
Library Expansion-History Librarian Matthew Mickelson gave the board an update on the new layout and plans for the library expansion project. Once the expansion is completed, Matthew will be offering a class on using research avenues at the library and information on preserving family documents.
Administrative Assistant changes-The functions of the administrative assistant position has been divided into two separate jobs, museum operations and administrative duties. Lynn would like to keep the museum operations piece. The board is looking for someone to fill the job of administrative duties.
Statement of non-discrimination-ECHS has adopted a formal policy of non-discrimination. Willy made a motion, seconded by Marion, to approve the statement proposed by Kathy. The motion passed unanimously.
New vice-president-Joanne made a motion, seconded by Sandy, to approve the nomination of Janice Tonz to the position of vice-president. The motion passed unanimously.
El Pomar Grant-ECHS was recently awarded an El Pomar Regional Merit grant, $2,500 to be used for general operations. The board discussed several options for directing the grant money. The board favored purchasing a museum exhibit case designed for clothing.
Budget Planning-It is time to begin work on next year’s budget. Willy will send out a worksheet to board members to begin this process.
Continuing Business
Staining the Avon Store-A contract has been signed with a local painter and work to stain the Avon Store will begin the last week of September after the museum closes for the season.
Museum Roof Replacement-Kathy continues to work with ECHS’s grant writer in the pursuit of funding for the museum roof replacement. The Eagle Lion’s Club has awarded ECHS a $1000 grant for the project. Local grants and private donations demonstrate community support for the project and are a critical piece when applying for outside grants. The board is looking for other sources to help fund this project.
Membership Drive-It is time to renew your 2019-2020 membership. Marion will send out email renewal requests. She will also send membership notices to town of Eagle trustees, county commissioners, Gypsum, Vail and Library board members.
The next ECHS Board meeting will not be until November 7 at 8:15.
Mark Your Calendars
Zealous School museum visit-Thursday, September 12
Charter School museum visit- Friday, September 20
Territorial Daughters Grand Junction program-Saturday, September 21
Horn Ranch tour-Saturday, September 28
Vail Ski Academy Red Cliff visit-Thursday, October 3
Colorado Gives Day-December 10, donations can be scheduled beginning Nov. 1
Minturn History walking tour-Saturday, December 14
August 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Monday, 5 August 2019
8:15 a.m. Museum in Eagle
Present: Kathy Heicher, Willy Powell, Sandy Van Campen, Marion Laughlin, Laura Chiapetta Thompson, Jaci Spuhler, Lynn Albers
New Business:
Monthly Board of Directors meeting date changed to first Thursday at 8:15 a.m. September meeting will be at Fulford; bring lunch & be prepared for hike.
Museum roof capital improvement project: Kathy and ECHS grant writer, Ellie Caryl, submitted the El Pomar capital improvement grant. (Generally, Ellie targets large foundations for capital improvement projects.) Justin Petersmeyer was very helpful for the financial components. A $10,000 request (made by Kathy) is on the discussion docket for Eagle County Commissioners. The TOE needs an annual report and Willy has requested a meeting with TOE Manager. Kathy will check with John Buchholz re: matching grant possibility. Lynn will check with VPL senior staff and VPL Friends of the Library re: donation. Webmaster Mick Bird will add a “Raise the Roof” fundraiser button to the ECHS website. Lynn is looking into adding a Raise the Roof feature to the CO Gives website.
Capital campaign marketing strategy: Laura suggested the end date goal for $ being 2020 or 2021. Five components need to be addressed & clarified: message, audience, approach, budget, tracking of success. Laura also suggested a campaign meeting inviting local philanthropists and creating a top 20 list of people to invite. Another approach is to collaborate with other nonprofits, such as Betty Ford Alpine Gardens (BFAG) or Walking Mountains. Jaci proffered that “small donations add up” and Laura suggested a Bowl-A-Thon.
Matthew Mickelsen, EVLD Local History Librarian, received a $2500 grant for a book scanner. He will begin scanning the fragile Alfred Borah journals (dated 1880s & 1890s). The journals were a donation from the Borah family.
ECHS discussed moving the penny press machine to the Eagle County Regional Airport. The large ECHS photo exhibit on the new second floor is being well received.
The old computers at the barn museum will be recycled. WiFi is available at the museum via the Visitor Center. The museum needs a small table for an old accounts register that belonged to the Hozas; this will be added to the Avon Store exhibit.
Vail Valley Anglers has been parking large commercial vehicles in the parking area and they are blocking traffic. The board suggests posting signs that read: No Rafting Parking. Four Rivers Historical Alliance may need a fiscal agent.
Ongoing Business:
Marion is working on the membership drive; mid-August is her goal for sending out letters. She requested the current budget, as towns need budget information by mid-August. Marion suggested expanding community/business memberships to banks. She also stated we have very few business memberships. Laura recommended separate letters for $ requests for memberships and capital projects.
The CO Gives website has been updated for 2019; tweaking is still occurring. Kathy notes that CO Gives programs & its website are effective for fundraising. The upgraded PastPerfect database has been launched, but it is not yet public. Marion mentioned this may be ca. $3000 expense. There is a database of the buildings in Eagle and the board feels EVLD should house this resource. A hard copy is located in the History Department of the Eagle Library.
Approximately 2000 to 2500 people viewed the Ute Exhibit at CMC Edwards campus (mid-May to mid-July).
Demolition of the Hahnewald Barn (built ca. 1905) in Avon is imminent.
As of yet, there is no replacement for ECHS Vice-President position vacated by Cindy Jones. Lynn Albers gave her written resignation notice as ECHS administrator effective 15 September 2019 (or museum closing date if after Sep 15).
Mark Your Calendars:
W Aug 7 VBR Eagle County history class
TH Aug 15 ECHS, BFAG & VPL collaboration; Eagle County’s Long History of Ranching & Agriculture lecture
SU Sep 8 Camp Hale history hike with Walking Mountains
SA Dec 14 Minturn history tour
July 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, July 1, 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Willy Powell, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak
New Business
Vice President Position-Cindy Jones has resigned as ECHS Vice President. Added responsibilities with her job in Clear Creek County is taking more of her time. Kathy thanked Cindy for her many accomplishments, including legal advice, museum work, involvement with the Penny Pinch machine and cemetery tours. ECHS will advertise the position among members.
ECHS Profit and Loss Statements-Kathy provided the board with profit and loss statements for September 2018 through May 2019 for the board to review.
Avon Store Staining-Willy presented a bid for power washing and staining the logs of the Avon store. A motion was made and passed to accept the bid. Work will commence after the museum closes this fall.
Hahnewald Barn Requests-The Avon Preservation Committee requested $1,000 from their collected donations for a video update about the dismantling of the Hahnewald Barn. The Sanitation District will be removing the barn from its property and efforts to move the barn to a new location failed. The Knapp Ranch is interested in salvaging the wood and needs to raise $30,000 to do so. They requested a donation from ECHS. The board voted against a donation since the project does not fit the mission of educating the public about the history of Eagle County. Salvaging the barn wood does not fit the definition of historic preservation and its new location is not open to the public.
Barn Roof Grant Pursuit-ECHS grant writer continues to pursue grants for reroofing the museum barn. She requested clarification of the role of the Town of Eagle. The town owns the building. Willy indicated the necessity of getting museum funding into the budget. Presently, any funding would come out of marketing events category, funding should come out of building and grounds. Willy will be meeting with town personnel and will bring up ECHS concerns, perhaps an extra donation for the roof project. The grant writer recommended a high visibility ECHS event to show public support. The board mentioned the two recent previous events, the wolf lecture and the Ute presentation, both highly supported by the public. Increase in the number of members and donations made to ECHS show public support as well. She also suggested the creation of a publicity campaign. Willy will talk with the Eagle Valley enterprise about writing a story about the museum barn’s history.
Ski Film Fundraiser-Film maker Roger Brown proposed showing his film ‘Ski the Outer Limits’ as a fund raising event. The board is considering the offer for this winter.
Continuing Business
Ute Exhibit-The Ute exhibit at the Edwards CMC needs to be taken down after the CMC art show in mid July.
Ranch History Display-A display of Eagle County ranching history is now at the Vail Library and will be on view through September.
History Photo Display at the Airport-Kathy attended a preview showing of the new airport terminal which houses large photos from ECHS’s historic photo collection on its walls.
Membership Update-Marion reported ECHS now has 115 members. Any new memberships in June, July, August will be grandfathered into next year. Marion will send renewal reminder letters to county towns in August and reminders to members in September.
Mark Your Calendars
Garden/History talk in Carbondale-Monday, July 8
Camp Hale History Hike with Walking Mountain-Saturday, September 14 or 21
The next ECHS Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 5, 8:15.
June 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, June 3, 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Willy Powell, Lynn Albers, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak, Laura Thompson
New Business
Museum-The museum opened for the season on May 17. Visitors numbers are sporadic and down from last year’s numbers. Docents are doing well and will be reminded to use the artifact sheet when gifted with a new artifact so that the artifact can be tracked for additional information if necessary. Also, there are wooden nickels that can be handed out to children visiting the museum. Docents will be instructed to call the town if the bathrooms need attention. Charlynn Williams made new identification cards for her adopted cabinet and Lynn and Dennis hung pictures and completed a new exhibit. Since there is only one key for the caboose, Willy offered to get another two made. A fresh list for current book prices needs to be updated so that it matches the docent list. Sandy and Cindy will see that this happens.
The new roof on the Avon store is weathering nicely but Willy noted that the logs are dried and bleached and in need of log oil. Spraying the logs would be the preferable method but there is some question about whether the malleable chinking can be sprayed. Willy will look into this question and see about bids. There was a suggestion that perhaps this could be a boy scout project.
ECHS continues to pursue possible grants for the painting of the barn. The Vail Board of Realtors recently bestowed ECHS with a $1,000 grant. Thank you Nancy Powell for helping us acquire this grant. The grant writer will meet with Kathy and Laura June 13 to discuss progress.
A new brochure about ECHS’s many facets will be available on June 13 in the museum and handed out at the wolf talk that evening.
Upcoming events-
Ute Display-An exhibit on the Ute Indians will be on display at the CMC Edwards campus through the month of June. Metcalf Archeology is sponsoring this display. The display will be picked up in Glenwood and set up at the college in the afternoon of June 4.
Wolf talk-Fort Lewis College Professor Andrew Gulliford will speak on the history of wolves in Colorado and their potential future. Wolf populations in Colorado ended in the 1920s. This fund raising event will take place Thursday evening, June 13, 6:30 p.m. at the old Eagle County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall. Cost of the lecture is $5.00 for ECHS members and $10.00 for non-members. Accommodations for Professor Gulliford have been arranged. Kathy will take care of publishing a feature story and Laura will arrange for an ad in the Vail Daily. Volunteers are needed to help set up the exhibit building at 2:00 p.m., for the entrance table and for clean-up.
Ute Program-A talk on the Ute Indians will take place on Thursday, June 20, 6:30 p.m. at CMC Edwards. There will be a speaker from the Aspen Historical Society and traditional Ute Indian items on display. There is no charge for this event and CMC will provide refreshments.
Vail Library Ranch Display-A team from ECHS will set up display items for a ranching exhibit at the Vail Library in June.
Future Agenda-ECHS board is discussing the possibility of some future events and projects. The town of Minturn has requested a history walking tour of the town in conjunction with their town celebration this fall. Walking Mountain Science center is looking to team up for a Camp Hale walking tour in September. The airport has requested a history photo display for the new terminal and the Vail Board of Realtors would like another Eagle County history class in August.
The next ECHS Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 1 at the Eagle Town Hall.
April 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 1, 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Willy Powell, Lynn Albers, Joanne Cermak
New Business
Museum Opening-The museum will open for the season on Friday, May 17. Cindy will contact BluSky to schedule a spring cleaning and Friday, May 10 will be the work day for the Adopt-a-cabinet team beginning at 10:00 a.m. Docent orientation and luncheon will be held on May 6 at 11:00 a.m. at the museum. Lynn will be contacting the docents about schedules.
Nimon-Walker Award-Jaci Spuhler is the 2019 recipient of the Nimon-Walker Award. Jaci served as the local history librarian for the Eagle Public Library from 2006 until her retirement in 2015 and continues to volunteer for ECHS. The event will take place at the Avon Public library on Sunday, April 28, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and feature guest speaker ‘Doc Susie’ presented by Kathy Naples, Media Director and Literacy Intervention Librarian for the East Grand School District. Matthew Mickelson fro EVLD attended the meeting to request help from board members setting up and taking down the room before and after the event. Matthew also updated the board on the restoration procedures for ECHS’s materials damaged by the library basement flood.The damage was not as bad as at first suspected and the materials should be back at the library sometime in April. He spoke briefly about the progress of the library’s remodeling project with respect to the history collection and he plans on holding a workshop in October on using the archives. He is also looking into a grant for monies for more digitization of historic records.
County Request-A request has been made for an airport history exhibit to be placed at the airport’s expanded new terminal. Kathy will meet with the assistant county manager on April 11 to discuss this project.
Minturn Request-The town of Minturn has inquired about a walking tour of downtown Minturn this fall. Kathy will find out more about what they might want.
Continuing Business
Re-roofing of Avon Store and Barn Museum-The board discussed at length the re-roofing projects. A motion passed to go ahead with re-roofing the Avon Store this year. A decision was made to use the rusting galvanized metal material. Re-roofing the barn museum will be set at a later date after funds can be acquired for this huge project. Grant writer Ellie Caryl led a discussion about possible grants and has been hired by ECHS to pursue such grants.
Mark Your Calendars
FRHA Meeting- Monday, April 15 at the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood
Docent Orientation and Luncheon-Monday, May 6 at the museum
VBR History Class and Horn Ranch Hike-Thursday, May 30
Ute Exhibit at CMC-Early June set up in Edwards
Andrew Gulliford Wolf History in Eagle County-Thursday, June 13, Eagle County Exhibit Hall
Ute Program-Thursday June 20 at CMC Edwards
The next ECHS Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 6, 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall.
March 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, March 4, 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Lynn Albers, Joanne Cermak
New Business
Nimon-Walker-Kathy will invite library archivist Matthew Mickelson to the April board meeting to see how we can assist him in setting up the Nimon-Walker Award event. This year’s event honors Jaci Spuhler and takes place at the Avon Library on Sunday, April 28. Guest speaker will be ‘Doc Susie’ presented by Kathy Naples.
Museum Roof Replacement-Cindy contacted several grant writers about obtaining a grant for the barn roof replacement. Cindy will contact one of the proposed writers so the process for searching out and applying for the grant can begin. It was also decided that the budget for hiring a grant writer should be increased.
Wolf History Talk-The ECHS fund raising event for this year, a talk by Fort Lewis College professor Andrew Gulliford on the history of wolves in Colorado, will take place on Thursday, June 13 at a yet to be determined place. Program costs were reviewed.
Ute Exhibit and Presentation-Kathy has arranged for the Aspen Historical Society’s exhibit on the Ute Indians to be set up at the CMC campus during the month of June. This exhibit will be accompanied by a presentation on Ute history, Thursday, June 20.
Colorado Ski & Snowboard Museum-The board will tour the newly renovated Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum in Vail in March and discuss collaboration and cross-promotion between the two organizations.
Betty Ford Alpine Garden-Kathy will speak at a presentation in August at the Betty Ford Alpine Garden on the history of agriculture in Eagle County. BFAG also requested a display for the Vail Library on this topic during August. The board will develop a display for the display cases in the library’s entry.
Continuing Business
Museum-Opening day for the museum this year will be Friday, May 17. Lynn will be working on hiring and scheduling docents for the season, and will be contacting those on the docent list. Docent orientation will take place in early May. Cindy will contact Blue Sky about cleaning the museum before it opens. Look for some new exhibits and updates on existing ones.
Past Perfect Pursuit-The board is still waiting for the release of the new software and is ready to go when it becomes available.
Mark Your Calendars
Nimon-Walker Award-Sunday, April 28, Avon Library
Andrew Gulliford Wolf Talk-Thursday, June 13
Ute Indian Presentation-Thursday, June 20, Colorado Mountain College, Edwards
The next ECHS Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 1, 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall.
February 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, February 4, 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Willy Powell, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Lynn Albers, Joanne Cermak
New Business
Nimon-Walker-The Nimon-Walker Award honoring Jaci Spuhler will take place on Sunday, April 28 at the Avon library. Guest speaker will be “Doc Susie” presented by Kathy Naples. Kathy and Lynn will make arrangements to meet with local history librarian Matthew Mickelson to see how ECHS can best assist the library with this program.
Library Archive Flood-Kathy reported on the damages to ECHS archives caused by a broken water pipe from construction work. Jeff Sandoval from SteamMaster responded with dehumidifiers and called Colorado Art Restoration in Denver. Action needed to be taken within 72 hours in order to prevent permanent water damage. Materials were taken to Denver where they will undergo restoration work. The contractor is responsible for costs incurred. Kathy met with the Library Board to inform them of the importance of the collection housed at the library and to thank them for the library staff’s efforts to rescue the materials. It was determined that it is time to review the agreement that ECHS has with the Eagle Valley Library District concerning historical materials.The board will take a look at the Memorandum of Understanding at the next board meeting.
Continuing Business
Barn Roof Replacement-The board reviewed bids for replacing the barn roof. Since the roof of the Avon Store is in worse condition, Willy is tasked with obtaining bids for the building. ECHS received a grant from the Eagle River Foundation which can be put toward the cost of a new roof for the store. After the bids are reviewed, the board will make a decision hopefully in March so that work can begin in April before the museum opens. Meanwhile, Cindy will contact the grant writer to look into a grant that might be obtained for the larger barn roof.
Hahnewald Barn-ECHS supports the Avon Historical Preservation Committee’s efforts in preserving the historical barn. Kathy attended the Avon Town Council’s meeting to speak of the historical significance of the barn.
Pursuit of PastPerfect-Membership in the American Association for State and Local History has been secured and this will enable ECHS to receive a discount for the new PastPerfect software when it becomes available.
Museum-Jaci continues to work on cataloging. New items received are Hume White’s top hat and Stanley’s Grocery thermometer. Some new volunteers have been added to the docent list for the 2019 season. The following people have committed to work on upgrades to exhibits: Lynn will work on the Ute exhibit, Cindy on the Horn Ranch exhibit and Kathy on Ice harvest.
Four Rivers Historical Alliance-The alliance is working on a new website.
Upcoming Events-Watch for two exciting events coming this spring. Andrew Guilliford, Fort Lewis College professor, will be scheduled to talk on the History of Wolves in Colorado at an ECHS fund raising event some time in late May. Location and fee not yet determined. The board also plans to rent a Ute Indian exhibit owned by Aspen Historical Society. This sizable exhibit is accompanied by a dramatic presentation on Ute history.
The next ECHS Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 4 at 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall.
January 2019
Eagle County Historical Society
Annual Meeting Minutes
Monday, 7 Jan 2019
Present: Kathy Heicher, Sandy Van Campen, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Lynn Albers
New Business: The election of ECHS Officers for 2019 – 2021 was held. Kathy Heicher and Cindy Jones continue as President and Vice-President, respectively. Willie Powell and Marion Laughlin continue as Financial Officer and Membership Executive, respectively. There were no nominees for Events Executive.
Programs for 2019 were discussed. Possibilities include a late May program on the History of Wolves in Colorado by author and Fort Lewis College professor, Andrew Gulliford. Cowboy poetry was another option discussed. In lieu of Doris Daley and Doc Mehl (already booked in Feb at 4-Eagle Ranch), Lynn will contact Crestone rancher, Peggy Godfrey, about her cowboy poetry program.
Kathy noted that an outstanding Ute History exhibit (owned by the Aspen Historical Society) may be rented for $250. Since the exhibit is somewhat sizable, CMC – Edwards campus academic building was considered as possible host. An accompanying historical dramatic presentation on Ute history is also available. Lynn will contact CMC Librarian, Katy Walker, about the possibility of CMC housing the exhibit in 2019.
Rancher Jim Yust (Trough Road in southwestern Grand County) would like ECHS to partner with him on a homestead tour of his ranch. Yust mentioned to Kathy that Zane Grey wrote in Eagle County and Grand County. A spring visit to the Yust ranch was discussed.
ECHS Museum exhibit and display upgrades were discussed. Kathy mentioned moving the space-taking snow sleigh out, but storage is an issue. Due to considerable interest, the enlarged photo of a Camp Hale snow trooper (and upgraded exhibit) will be returned. Eagle County ice collection, including ice tongs and narrative, was another display discussed. Cindy will offer some interpretation of the Horn Ranch, Leonard Horn and a camp kitchen display. Lynn will look into revamping the Ute exhibit.
Nimon-Walker Award candidates were discussed. Jaci Spuhler was nominated. The event will be held at the Avon Library and coordinated by EVLD Local History Librarian.
Other New Business: Deb Earle will help with ECHS school programs at Eagle County schools. In association with Betty Ford Alpine Garden, Kathy will offer a summer program on Eagle County agriculture. Kathy mentioned that the Eagle Valley Art Guild and Vail Symposium programs also have agricultural and ranching themes in 2019.
ECHS received a $1200 grant from the Town of Eagle. An $1100 donation to ECHS (via the Eagle Valley Rummage Sale) was given by David and Sue Mott. There is a Colorado minimum wage increase (to $11.10 hr.) that will affect the ECHS Museum docents in summer 2019.
Continuing Business: Kathy would like to create a historical blog on the ECHS website. The library district has a history blog, but it has not been particularly active since the retirement of Archivist Jaci Spuhler. Marion reports that the museum database, PastPerfect, still being upgraded. Marion also noted that ECHS memberships are down slightly from 2018.
The website PayPal feature needs upgrading (separation of taxable goods – namely book sales – versus non-taxable donations and memberships). Lynn and Kathy will discuss the PayPal issues with Mick Bird, the website designer, and Justin Petersmeyer, the accountant.
December 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, December 3, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Willy Powell, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Laura Thompson, Lynn Albers, Joanne Cermak
New Business
New Positions-The board was introduced to Lynn Albers ECHS’s new administrator. A motion was made and passed to purchase a gift certificate for outgoing administrator Anne Kerrigan to thank her for her hard work. Kathy announced that Justin Petersmeyer of All Mountain Tax would serve as bookkeeper.
Library Archivist-The board was also introduced to the new library archivist Matthew Mickelson. Matthew works with ECHS navigating archives and is open to offering a class about the process to help individuals do this on their own. He spoke briefly about the library’s new addition and future plans to better protect stored documents. His first few months at the library have gone well and he looks forward to getting to better know Eagle County. The board took the opportunity to discuss preliminary plans for next year’s Nimon-Walker Award with Matthew.
Colorado Gives Day-Plans were made for December 4 Colorado Gives Day activities. Representatives of ECHS would attend the rally in Avon Monday evening and an ECHS crew will be at the Eagle Diner roundabout for the Honk and Wave Tuesday morning at 7:45. Marion will man a table at City Market Tuesday evening to hand out bags and remind people to donate.
Eagle County Support-Eagle County commissioners have made an annual commitment for a $7,500 ECHS membership and $2,500 research fee. ECHS works with the county to lead Horn Ranch hikes as well as offer support with other county projects.
Annual Meeting-ECHS will hold its annual meeting at the next board meeting on January 7, 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall. Officer positions to be filled are Vice President, Financial Officer, Membership Executive and Events Executive. Nominations are welcomed.
2019 Programs-Possible programs for the coming year were discussed. Author and college professor Andrew Guillford is available in late May. He has programs on the history of wolves in Colorado and on the history of sheep and cattle rancher conflicts in Colorado. He charges $100 plus expenses. The Ute history display from the Aspen Historical Society could be coordinated with a talk on the Ute Indians by Nina from AHS. The large display could be set up at the Vail Hospital or the Shaw clinic and costs $250 plus speaker fees. The previously discussed Eagle Ranch bicycle tour is postponed to another year and it is an off year for a cemetery tour. ECHS is scheduled to work with Betty Ford Alpine Gardens for a summer program on agriculture in Eagle County.
Continuing Business
Membership-Marion reported ECHS has 55 memberships and 71 paid members. She requested permission to delete names from the Constant Contact list that have not been in touch with ECHS for longer than three years. The board passed a motion to delete the names.
Past Perfect-Jaci and Marion have sent in ECHS accession records and are waiting for the data conversion person to convert the records into the new Past Perfect software.
Brush Creek Schoolhouse-Americorp engineers have completed work on the Brush Creek Schoolhouse stabilization project. The project was made possible through a GOCO grant applied for by Sylvan Lake State Park and supported by ECHS.
Next meeting:The next ECHS Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 7, 2019 at 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall and will serve as the annual meeting election of officers.
November 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, November 5, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Willy Powell, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak
New Business
New Administrator-Lynn Albers has accepted the administrator position. Lynn is a ECHS member and is familiar with the accession program Past Perfect. The bookkeeping position has not yet been filled. Some possible ideas for 2019 fund raising events were discussed including another antique show and tell, a bike rally around Eagle Ranch with stops at street corners with historic names, and a Mitchell Creek history hike.
2018-2019 Budget-The board approved the proposed budget for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. It was decided that the barn roof replacement project would be postponed for the year in order to allow time to apply for grants for this large capital improvement.
Colorado Gives Day-Colorado Gives Day this year is Tuesday, December 4. Promotional activities will lead up to the date. A proclamation will be given at the Eagle Town Council, November 13 at 5:50 p.m. and at the Gypsum Town Council at 6:50 p.m. An Eagle County Gives Rally will take place on Tuesday, November 27 and ECHS will man the Eagle Diner roundabout for the Honk and Wave on December 4 at 7:45 a.m. Kathy has already written a news release and members can sign up for additional activities such as putting up posters or manning store giveaway tables.
Continuing Business
Membership Drive-Marion reported ECHS currently has 57 members. Membership has changed to September through August to coincide with the fiscal year.
Past Perfect-ECHS will join the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) in preparation for the purchase of the new Past Perfect software in January. The membership will give ECHS a discount on the cost of the program. Data conversion of records from our current system to Past Perfect has not been scheduled.
Mileage Reimbursement Policy-The board approved a policy regarding speaker fees and mileage. A speaker may request a fee and receive mileage reimbursement. The fee will be a percentage of the fee paid to the Historical Society and mileage will be given at the standard rate. Requests must be submitted to the ECHS administrator within 60 days of the speaking event.
Highway Sign-A restroom sign will be placed under the highway’s Visitor Center sign. Hopefully, it will help attract visitors to the Visitor Center and to the museum. Visitor numbers were down this summer after the removal of the rest area sign.
Advertisement-Marion will put out an email reminding members of the great books ECHS has available for Christmas presents and Kathy will see about promoting Colorado Gives Day on the ECHS Facebook page.
The next ECHS Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 3 at 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall.
October 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Monthly Meeting Minutes
Monday, Oct. 8 – Eagle County Historical Museum
Present: Kathy Heicher (president), Cindy Jones (vice-president), Willy Powell (financial officer), Sandy Van Campen (publications officer), Marion Laughlin (membership officer), and Jaci Spuhler (member).
New Business
Meeting day change: In order to better accommodate the work schedules of Board members, the Board agreed to change the regular meeting date to the first Monday of every month, 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall (unless otherwise noted).
Final Budget numbers 2017-2018 Fiscal Year: The Profit & Loss statement for the fiscal year shows a net income of $10,911.75. Kathy noted that part of that profit was carry-over from the approximate $3,000 that was budgeted for acquisition of PastPerfect, the accession records program.
Administrator position: The Board agreed to split the bookkeeper position from the administrator position. Kathy will work with Anne to determine the average number of hours per month are involved in bookkeeping, and then will seek cost quotes from some accountants. Willy will assist.
Annual report: The Board approved the annual report, which will be posted on the website. Marion will send out an e-mail directing members to the report.
Annual meeting: The Board agreed that the regular monthly meeting in December would be the annual meeting, with election of officers. It was decided to keep a history program separate from the annual meeting business. Kathy will look into bringing in a program in January. Possible programs include historian/author Andrew Gulliford or a program about the Utes from Aspen Historical Society.
Museum season summary: Cindy noted that museum visits were down from 9,910 in 2017 to 6,066 this year. The decrease is directly related to the removal of the “Rest Area” sign from I-70. Donations decreased from $4,700 in 2017 to $4,076. The Board agreed that the numbers will decrease even more next summer, unless the sign situation changes. Kathy said Roxie Deane has advised her that the town is working on correcting the sign situation. E-mail inquiries to the town have gone unanswered.
Continuing Business
Membership drive: Marion reported that 30 regular members and 4 government members have renewed memberships. She will send out monthly to the current membership.
Acquisition of PastPerfect: Marion reported that the PastPerfect people have indicated the program will be available in January or February. She has requested that the ECHS be placed in the queue for conversion of records from our current system. The Board agreed that a membership in the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) is worthy both for the significant discount in the PastPerfect services and for the expertise and help they can offer. Marion will communicate with the Past Perfect people regarding the right time to sign up.
Museum roof replacement: The Board agreed that replacement of the museum roof is a priority for 2019, however supplemental grant funds will be necessary. Grant write Kim Mitchell has agreed to help seek grants; the Board also suggested approaching the Town of Eagle and Eagle County. Estimates gathered by Willy put the price of the project in the $40,000 – $60,000 range. Willy and Cindy will work with the grant writer and with the Board on seeking financial support for this project.
Mileage reimbursement policy: After consulting with Aspen Historical Society, the Board agreed to develop a policy allowing members doing official business to either seek mileage compensation at the standard mileage rate (not the non-profit rate), or to turn in the mileage as an in-kind donation at the accepted rate. Cindy will draw up the official policy.
Town of Eagle Master Plan Committee: Kathy will represent the Historical Society on this project, as time allows.
Four Rivers Historical Alliance: Kathy reported that the group is working with a consultant who can present a program on effective use of social media.
Colorado Gives Day: Tuesday, Dec. 4 (very likely the first miserable snow day of the year). Members will be asked to help with the various activities.
Work session: Board members put the museum to bed for the winter.
Next meeting: Monday, Nov. 5, 8:15 a.m. at the Eagle Town Hall.
August 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, August 30, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Joanne Cermak, Sandy Van Campen, Marion Laughlin, Laura Thompson, Anne Kerrigan
New Business
Administator-Anne has resigned the administrator position, effective October 15. Thanks Anne for a wonderful job. She will be greatly missed.The board discussed next steps in finding a new administrator. It was suggested that the position be split into two postions, bookkeeper and administrator, since the positions seem to require different skill sets. Kathy will alert the Colorado Gives group that we are looking for a bookkeeper in the possibility another non-profit organization has a part time bookkeeper that we could share.
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour-Kathy reported that despite the early rain, the cemetery tour was a success. ECHS made $3,531 in profit for the day, $255 was from book sales
The Caboose-Some recent vandalism in the caboose prompted a discussion about whether or not to keep the caboose locked. It was decided to leave it open and to report any vandalism to the police.
Membership Drive-Marion has sent out government membership requests and will begin the new membership campaign. ECHS’s fiscal year has changed to September through August. She has had some difficulty obtaining addresses from the membership forms from the new website and will strive to work this out.
Honky-Tonk Night-The event will take place Friday, September 7 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the museum to unveil the newly refurbished player piano and recently donated antique whiskey still. Cost for the event is $5.00 for members and $10.00 non-members and western or honky-tonk attire is encouraged. Linda Carr will provide some patriotic music on the piano and there will be a presentation by Jere Debacher, the piano’s restorer, on player pianos and the restoration process. Kathy has arranged for a feature story in the Enterprise and Laura has arranged for ads in the Vail Daily. Marion will send out email reminders about the event to members. Popcorn, pretzels and other snacks will be provided along with a cash bar of wine and beer. Laura will contact 10th Mountain Distillery to arrange for some whiskey tasting. Sandy, Marion and Joanne will pick up supplies Friday afternoon and meet to set up the area at 4:00 p.m. Additional helpers are needed and Marion will send out requests.
2nd Grade Museum Tour-A request was made for a 2nd grade tour of the museum on October 6. ECHS is now requiring a $5.00/person fee with a minimum of $75.00
Old Business
Golf Pass-The donated golf pass to the Frost Creek Golf Course was autioned off for $250.00.
Artifact Accessioning-Jaci is progressing with the difficult job of accessioning artifacts. Thank you, Jaci!
Electrical Outlets-Bill Jones has agreed to work on the addition of electrical outlets upstairs in the museum in order to improve lighting in the barn loft. Thank you Bill!
Mark Your Calendars-
Community Rummage Sale-September 14 and 15
Mining Program at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens-Thursday, September 20
Walking Mountain History Hike at McCoy fossil beds-Tuesday, September 25
Possible Horn Ranch Hike-Saturday, October 6
Horn Ranch Hike-Thursday, October 11
July 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, July 5, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Joanne Cermak, Willy Powell, Marion Laughlin, Laura Thompson
New Business
Player Piano-This month the board meeting was held at the museum in order to introduce the board to the newly refurbished player piano. After instruction on how to operate, several board members took a turn playing the piano. A policy will be developed determining when it is to be played and Cindy will offer docents training in its operation. A motion was made and passed to send the final adjusted payment to repairman Jere Debacher, and to invite him to speak at a celebration event at the museum. It was decided the event would be held on September 7 and revolve around the acquisition of the antique still and the return of the piano.
New Website-The new ECHS website is up and working. Final details, such as transfer of the domain, getting email to work and posting on the site, should be complete soon. ECHS wants to get the word out and to invite the public to check it out. Kathy will write a news release, and as well as posting it on Facebook, we are asking the libraries, towns and Walking Mountain Science Center to announce it in their newsletters.
Rummage Sale-ECHS has been informed that a new rummage sale event has been planned and will take place this fall.
Colorado Gives Day-December 4, 2018 has been designated as this year’s Colorado Gives Day.
GOCO Grant-A GOCO grant has been awarded for the stabilization of the Brush Creek School House at Sylvan Lake State Park. The project was granted $20,000, and work will be handled by Historicorps. Last winter, ECHS held a public interest event at the school house and pledged $1,000 toward the project.
Hannewald Barn-A group hoping to move the Hannewald Barn in Avon to Nottingham Park, for use as a local pavilion, has asked for support from ECHS. Anne will consult an accountant for some questions about 501c3 status. ECHS expresses a willingness to help the project and will pledge a donation to the group.
New Roof-The barn’s roof is in need of repair. Various roofing materials were debated. Willy will inquire about costs and obtain some bids.
Continuing Business
Museum Operation-Cindy reported that 3500 visitors have already been through the museum this season. Comments have been complimentary.
Interim Curator-Jaci has volunteered to serve as interim curator archiving recently donated artifacts.
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour-Tickets for the August 18 cemetery tour were set at $20 for advanced sale and $25 day of event. ECHS members can purchase advanced sale tickets for $17, but all tickets purchased on the day of the event will be $25. Purchased tickets must be printed out and brought to the event as there is limited cell coverage at the venue. The event will begin at 10:00 a.m. and conclude by 4;00 p.m. and tours will last about 90 minutes. Laura Thompson will work on getting sponsors for the event.
Mark Your Calendars-
Walking Mountain Science Center History Hikes-
Sweetwater Indian Cave-Tuesday, July 31
McCoy Fossil Beds-Tuesday, September 25
Horn Ranch Hikes with Eagle Valley Land Trust-
Saturday, August 25
Thursday, October 11
Vail Board of Realtors Local History Class-
Thursday, August 11
Red Cliff Town Board Cemetery Tour Update-Tuesday, August 7
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour-Saturday, August 18
The next ECHS Board Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 2 at 4:00 p.m.
May 31, 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, May 31, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak, Anne Kerrigan, Willy Powell, Jaci Spuhler
New Business
Eagle Library Expansion-Linda Tillson, EVLD Director, and Diane Levin, Head of Technical Services, reported to the EVHS board on the progress of the Eagle Library Expansion Project, scheduled to break ground this fall, and on the status of the archivist position. Thirty-two applicants applied for the position and Skype interviews would begin this week leading to personal interviews.
Eagle Ranch Social Hour-Eagle Ranch homeowners are scheduled to hold their social hour at the museum on Friday, June 8, 4-6 p.m. Attendees will tour the museum.
Vail DAR Meeting-ECHS will present to the newly formed chapter of the DAR on Thursday, June 14, 6 p.m., informing the group of its mission and programs.
New Donation-The Eagle Valley Community Fund closed its account and made its final donations. ECHS received a $1,500.
New Website-The new website is ready to go as soon as some last minute details regarding PayPal are resolved.
Continuing Business
Museum Operations-A big thank you goes out to BluSky! Once again the company donated cleaning services to get the museum spic and span and ready for opening day. And, thank you to our own Sandy Van Campen who cleaned the caboose. One-thousand visitors have already viewed the museum. The board would like to add the names of a few more people to the list of docents, those willing to serve as back-up docents when a need arises.
Player Piano-The repaired player piano is scheduled to return to the museum the week of June 18. The board is planning to hold a celebration party and to invite piano repairman, Jere DeBacher, to deliver an instruction program. Details are in the works.
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour-The Red Cliff Cemetery tour will take place Saturday, August 18. Character actors, docents and helpers are being recruited. The event is planned for 10:00-3:00 and each tour would take approximately 90 minutes. Jaci Spuhler will man the Red Cliff museum and sell ECHS books during tour hours. Ticket costs and transportation needs are being discussed.
Administrator Report-Anne updated the board on current financial business and reported that the Colorado Gives Report necessary for 2018 has been completed.
Mark Your Calendars
Eagle Ranch social group museum tour-Friday, June 8, 4-6 p.m.
Walking Mountain Science Center History Hikes-
Sweetwater Indian Cave-Tuesday, July 31
McCoy Fossil Beds-Tuesday, September 25
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour-Saturday, August 18
Horn Ranch Hikes with Eagle Valley Land Trust-
Saturday, August 25
Thursday, October11
Vail Board of Realtors Local History Class-
Thursday, August 11
The next ECHS Board Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 5 at 4:00 p.m.
May 3, 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, May 3, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak, Anne Kerrigan, Willy Powell, Laura Thompson
New Business
Ute Indian Exhibit-Kathy and Joanne traveled to Rifle for the installation of the Ute Indian Traveling Exhibit. The exhibit was provided through a grant received by the Aspen Historical Society. It will make the rounds to the various communities in the 4 Rivers Historical Alliance and will have a turn in Eagle County. The exact schedule is yet to be determined.
Board Meeting Times-The monthly ECHS board meeting has changed from 8:15 to 4:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month beginning with next meeting in June.
Museum Opening-The museum will open for the season on May 19. In preparation, there will be a docent training on Friday, May 11. Sandy Van Campen will organize the lunch and Marion will be in attendance to help out. The docent schedule is in the works. Cindy is working on hiring a cleaning crew and the board will hold a work day immediately after the board meeting to organize exhibits. The board voted to purchase 12 folding chairs and Willy will pick these up at Costco. It was decided to wait on updating the museum brochure since there are still some available and there are plenty of bookmarks. The player piano is scheduled to return to the museum by June 8, in time for the Eagle Ranch property owner’s visit.
Policy Development-The board discussed a rough draft of a policy that would address reimbursement fees for presentations and research work. After much discussion, the item was tabled. Kathy will talk to the Aspen Historical Society to see what their policy is.
Program Requests-
County Fair-A request was made for a display for the county fair. A display on agriculture on Brush Creek was suggested.
Piney River Ranch-Owners of the Piney River Ranch are holding a John Wesley Powell Day. Since there is little information on Powell’s fleeting time in Eagle County, Kathy referred them to other sources.
DAR-The newly formed 10th Mountain chapter of the DAR requested a program on June 14, 5:00 p.m. at the Vail Library so that they could familiarize themselves with the ECHS.
Library Archivist Position-EVLD is advertising for the position of archivist. Laci Dunlavy is leaving for a position at the Carbondale Library. Linda Tillson, EVLD director, will meet with board next month for an update on the position and news on planned library expansion.
Continuing Business-
Website Update-The new website will be live soon!
Penny Press-Cindy continues to work on contacting airport administrators to obtain permission to locate a Penny Press machine at the airport. The company is offering free shipping in May.
Membership-Because ECHS currently changed its calendar year from January-December to September-August, any new memberships for 2018 will be active until August of 2019. If you need to renew membership, take advantage of this one time offer.
Eagle Ranch Visit-Eagle Ranch residents will gather for a social and to tour the museum on Friday, June 8 from 4-6 p.m.
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour-Actors and helpers are being recruited for the cemetery tour on Saturday, August 18.
Mark Your Calendars
Eagle Ranch Museum Tour-Friday, June 8, 4-6PM
Walking Mountain Science Hikes-
Sweetwater Indian Cave-Tuesday, July 31
McCoy Fossil Beds-Tuesday, September 25
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour-Saturday, August 18
Horn Ranch Hikes with Eagle Valley Land Trust-
Saturday, August 25
Thursday, October 11
The next ECHS board meeting will be Thursday, May 31 at 4:00 PM Eagle Library (note time and place change) .
March 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak, Anne Kerrigan, Willy Powell
New Business
History Program-ECHS supports Sylvan Lake State Park’s effort in applying for a GOCO grant for Upper Brush School preservation and will present a history program on Saturday, March 3 at the park. Historic photos will be exhibited at the visitor’s center, information about the old building and ranching in the area presented at the schoolhouse, and snowshoeing to the Coulter barn. Former students from the school may attend and tell stories of days at the school.
Albertson Book Beanies, Stick Horses, Marbles and Mean Chickens, Growing Up in Burns, Colorado in the 1940s by Verne Albertson is nearly sold out. Kathy and Sandy made the decision to reinvest the money already made from the book sales and ordered a second printing of 250 more books.
Collaboration with BFAG-Betty Ford Alpine Garden education director contacted Kathy about a possible collaboration focused on farming in Vail and Eagle County. They are applying for an EPA grant for 2019 and would like ECHS to participate by offering a Powerpoint presentation, brochure and display signage. ECHS would receive some funding from this grant. They have also requested a mining exhibit this July through September. Marion will look into providing the traveling case with artifacts.
Administration Business-Anne brought up the need for secure storage for sensitive materials such as payroll records. A safety deposit box was suggested. Storage of accumulating paper records could still be in the museum. A move to a paperless record system was discussed-Dropbox, thumb drives, other options. Quickbooks online backup is also needed and opening a free Dropbox account was suggested.
Fee Policy-There is a need for a policy regarding requests for researched information and programs. A fee schedule will be developed.
Continuing Business
Website-ECHS’s new website is progressing and looking nice and may be complete by the end of March.
Piano Repair-Kathy has been in touch with the Jerry and hopefully repairs will be done by May.
Penny Machine-Cindy continues to try to make contact with the airport about placing a Penny Machine permanently at the remodeled structure.
Golf Tickets-The board discussed placing the Frost Creek golf tickets ECHS received on the Flight Days auction. A minimum bid would be established.
Past Perfect-Marion reported the new software is still not ready.
Membership Drive-Marion reported ECHS has 39 memberships and 50 members. She will send out renewal reminder notices.
Museum Opening-May 19 will be the opening day for the museum this year and closing date on or about September 16. An email will be sent to last year’s docents to check on availability. Cindy will make up the schedule. A museum workday will be scheduled for accessioning new artifacts, sprucing up displays and adding written interpretation. Blue Sky will be contacted about the annual cleaning and Adopt-A-Cabinet volunteers organized.
Mark your calendars
Nimon-Walker Award, Sunday, April 29
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour, Saturday, August 18
The next ECHS board meeting will be Thursday, April 5, 2018.
February 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, February 1, 2018
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak, Anne Kerrigan, Willy Powell
New Business
Annual Report-The 2017 Eagle County Historical Society’s annual report was pre-sented. The report will be emailed to members and can also be viewed on ECHS’s website.
Financial Officer-The board confirmed Willy Powell as ECHS’s new Financial Officer. It also approved a change of wording in the By-Laws, replacing ‘Treasurer’ with ‘Fi-nancial Officer’.
Upper Brush Creek School-The board voted to support Sylvan Lake State Park in its effort to obtain a GOCO grant for Upper Brush School preservation. The building is in need of stabilization. The board agreed to carry over its commitment from last year of a $1000 donation for the project if the park receives the GOCO grant. Community com-mitment to the project would help in obtaining the grant, so ECHS will work with the park to create a ‘people’ event focusing on the school house. A history hike or snow-shoe was suggested.
Summer Invite-Summit County Historical Society would like to invite ECHS members to Dillon this summer as a ‘thank you’ for the help they received from ECHS with school history programs. Summit County members attended an elementary school ses-sion to see how the program is delivered.
CPA Services-ECHS will continue to use a CPA for a year end review.
Continuing Business
Website Development-Changes to the ECHS home page have been completed add-ing a new logo with a more prominent font and a colorful main picture. The publica-tions and membership pages have been upgraded. Descriptions and pictures of books for sale are now featured.
Past Perfect-The new Past Perfect software has hit some snags and will not be avail-able until summer. ECHS is eager to obtain this program in order to update accession records. Funds have been set aside for its purchase.
Penny Machine-The Penny Crunching Machine is more profitable at the airport dur-ing the winter months, and more profitable at the Visitor’s Center in summer, but it is difficult to move between the two locations. The board agreed to purchase a second Penny Crunching Machine for permanent placement at the airport. Cindy will contact airport personnel to request permission.
Player Piano-Repairs to the player piano are expected to be completed by May. The board discussed insulating the area behind the piano’s museum location to help pro-tect it from cold.
Museum Opening-The museum is scheduled to open mid to late May. Cindy will pre-pare a list of tasks that need to take place in preparation. Work days in April or May will be scheduled for cleaning, improving displays and cataloging. The museum brochure will also be revised for reprinting.
Mark your calendars
Nimon-Walker Award, Sunday, April 29
Red Cliff Cemetery Tour, Saturday, August 18
The next ECHS board meeting will be Thursday, March 1, 2018.
January 2018
Eagle County Historical Society
Monthly meeting Jan. 4 2018
Minutes
Present: Kathy Heicher, president; Cindy Jones, vice president; Marion Laughlin, membership director; Sandy Van Campen, publications director; Anne Kerrigan, administrator.
New Business
Budget approval: The Board unanimously approved the budget for fiscal year 2017-1018. Budget highlights include the upgrade of the ECHS website, repair of the Nottingham Player Piano, and acquisition of the PastPerfect software for acquisition records.
Quarterly Profit & Loss Statement: Anne Kerrigan presented the quarterly P&L report for Sept. 1, 1017 through January 1, 2018. The net income for the period was $7,612.74.
CPA Consultant: Kathy has authorized Anne to consult with local CPA Justin Petermeyer with questions about budget, tax filings, etc. The Board agreed with that decision.
Albertson book sales: The newly published “Beanies” book by Verne Albertson proved to be a popular item. Book sales in general during the first quarter went well, with $2,700 in revenue (the Albertson book was the big seller).
New Financial Officer: Marion has obtained the names and contact information for a couple of people who might be willing to serve in the position. She will follow-up on this.
Museum Curator: Kathy reminded the group of the need to fill the museum curator position. There was general agreement that we need to get the PastPerfect software on line before approaching somebody about volunteering for the job. There was some talk of dividing up the duties amongst Board members for the coming museum season.
Moving the linotype: Kathy has contacted the plant manager (Bill) at Colorado Mountain New Media who is willing to come and help us figure out how to shift the linotype around in the museum.
Buchholz donation: Kathy reported a generous annual donation from ECHS member John Buchholz. The money was placed in the museum improvement fund.
Continuing Business
Website Development: Website designer Mick Bird has produced a draft home page, which the Board was enthusiastic about. Kathy will compile a list of feedback comments for Mick.
Past Perfect Status: Marion reported that the Past Perfect developers might be able to give us a status update next week.
Penny Machine: The Board agreed to explore the possibility of acquiring a second penny-squashing machine for permanent location at the Eagle County Airport. Cindy will contact the airport administration to inquire about the possibility.
Grant writing: The Board suggested that now is the time to pursue grant funds for upcoming projects such as the Red Cliff cemetery tour, museum exhibits, etc. Kathy will contact the grant writer, Kim.
Upcoming dates to note:
•
Nimon-Walker Award Sunday, April 29, Avon Library
Nimon-Walker Award Sunday, April 29, Avon Library•Red Cliff Cemetery tour Saturday, Aug. 18
Red Cliff Cemetery tour Saturday, Aug. 18Next meeting:
Thursday, Feb. 1
December 2017
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Thursday, December 7, 2017
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak, Anne Kerrigan
New Business
Colorado Gives-Anne reported donations for Eagle County Historical Society on Colorado Gives Day totaled $1920, an increase over last year’s donations of $1654.
New Artifacts-ECHS received two depot signs from the Glenwood Railroad Museum, one from Gypsum and the other from State Bridge. A roll top desk was also received from the Eagle Valley Enterprise.
Financial Officer-A search is on for a new financial officer.
Potential Events for 2018-ECHS will be planning a Red Cliff Cemetery Tour in conjunction with the town of Red Cliff’s planned art tour. The preferred date is August 18. A Player Piano celebration is also in the works around the time of the museum’s opening in May.
Continuing Business
Albertson Book-A new book Beanies, Stick Horses, Marbles and Mean Chickens, Growing Up in Burns, Colorado in the 1940s by Verne Albertson is now available for sale at Batson’s Corner, the Visitors’ Center and the Bookworm.
Website Development-Laura Thompson has taken over this project and is working with the website developer. They are reviewing content and welcoming input. The updated site will be available for viewing and approval before the old site is shut down.
Past Perfect-The board is still waiting for the release of the new Past Perfect software in order to update accession records.
2018 Budget-The board worked on creating a new budget for 2018, entering estimates into the budget document. A motion was made and passed to modify the membership year so that it would be consistent with ECHS’s fiscal year September to August.
Penny Machine-Moving the Penny Machine to the airport for the winter season was discussed. It is a difficult move but so much more profitable at the airport during the winter than at the Visitor’s Center. The board may consider purchasing another Penny Machine at some point so that one can be permanently located at the airport.
The next ECHS board meeting will be January 4, 2018.
November 2017
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Nov. 2, 2017
Present: Kathy Heicher, president; Cindy Jones, vice president; Marion Laughlin, membership director; Sandy Van Campen, publications director.
New Business
2017-2018 Budget: The Board worked on creating a budget for Fiscal Year 2017-1018. Cindy supplied a form; Board members split up the categories and will make their best guess estimates for the upcoming year. The numbers will be brought back at our Dec. 7 meeting. Possible special events for the coming year would be a Red Cliff cemetery tour, perhaps a farm-to-table event at the museum; or a player piano party when the repaired piano is returned next spring.
Colorado Gives Day: The ECHS is once again participating in Colorado Gives Day on Tuesday, Dec. 5. Marion will send out a notice of related activities, offering members an opportunity to participate. Last year’s effort raised $1,500 for the ECHS.
Frost Creek donation: Kathy reported that Frost Creek Golf Course donated $100 to the Historical Society plus a round of golf for 4 in the 2018 season, to be raffled off or given away. The gesture was in thanks for the ECHS work in helping to create a mining exhibit for a recent golf tournament. Board members discussed the possibility of raffling off the passes at t future event.
Close Avon Store for winter: Cindy suggested closing the Avon store for winter months. The Eagle Visitor Center reports low visitation during the cold months of the year, and indicated it would not be a problem. Kathy will check to see if the caboose should also be closed for the winter.
New Artifacts: Kathy reported numerous donations of artifacts during recent months. The most recent acquisitions include to boxes of photos, journals and memorabilia from the Al Borah family, dating back to his homestead on Brush Creek in the late 1800s and early 1900s; a vintage post card of Eagle River Canyon; a croquet set from Camp Hale, and several 1924 town election ballots from the town of Eagle.
Continuing Business
Verne Albertson book: Kathy reported that the Verne Albertson book is proofed and ready for printing. It should be ready by mid-November. Estimated printing cost is $1,500. Books will sell for $15 each.
Website development: The Board voted unanimously to pursue website development with Mick Bird of True Compass Designs, who designed of the Aspen Historical Society website. Board members are drawing up a list of the items they would like to see included on a website. Marion will contact Mick to ascertain what information he needs from us. Board members are encouraged to look at the existing website, and make a list of priorities for web pages (i.e. use of our historic photos, a clear indication that we are in the book-selling business, etc.)
Next meeting: Thursday, Dec. 7, 8:15 Eagle Town Hall.
October 2017
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2017
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak, Anne Kerrigan
New Business
New Administrator-The board approved the hiring of Anne Kerrigan as the new ECHS Administrator. Anne comes well qualified for the job and the board looks forward to working with her.
Final Numbers for the Museum-It was a great season at the museum this year. A total of 9910 people visited, increasing by 5040 visitors over last year. Visitor donations totaled $4,873.96, an increase of $736.96. Cindy will compile visitor comments from the sign-in sheet and has asked docents for suggestions on how to improve the experience. The second grade class visit in September went well with a rotation of 4 stations, and this may be the format to use in the future. The board will be looking at any changes and exhibit improvements over the winter. The first task will be to accession the artifacts recently received. A work date was set for organizing the new artifacts, Wednesday, October 11.
Eagle Valley Community Rummage Sale-ECHS received $1,900 from Rummage Sale Community Fund. This year was the final year for the rummage sale.
Website Development-The board plans to upgrade ECHS’s website. Marion has agreed to be the leader for the project and has been in contact with one web designer and will be on the lookout for other possible designers. The board will try to define exactly what is needed on the new website, what that might cost to design and what fees will be associated with it. ECHS has received $2,000 in donations for the upgrade and is prepared to match this amount if need be.
Vail Board of Realtors Education Program-ECHS received a $300 payment for the August program from VBR bringing the total for the year to $1,050. The board approved a speaker fee of $30 to Kathy. Cindy will work on a policy for ECHS addressing speaker fees.
Walking Mountain Science Center Hikes-The history hikes offered through partnership with Walking Mountain Science Center were a huge success, and ECHS received a total income of $1260. ECHS would like to continue the partnership with Walking Mountain and offer more hikes next year. The possibility of partnering with other organizations for history walks was also discussed.
New Artifacts-ECHS received old photographs, Lady Belle Mine journals and a 1912 Methodist Ladies cookbook from the Alfred Borah family.
Ongoing Business
Past Perfect Pursuit-Marion received word that the new expected date for release of the Past Perfect software is early December.
New Memoir-The memoir of growing up on a ranch in the 1940s is now in the proofreading stage. Hopefully it will be ready in time for the holidays.
2018 Budget Planning-Kathy is working with Maggie to get a document for Hector so that work on next year’s budget can begin.
Next ECHS Board Meeting-November 2, 2017, 8:15, Eagle Town Hall
Dates To Remember-Hannehwald Barn Tour and Avon Town Council Meeting addressing approval for the barn’s move, Wednesday, October 11, 2017
September 2017
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
Sept. 7, 2017
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Hector Ordonez, Joanne Cermak, Greg Earl
New Business
Museum Business-The museum saw 8,507 visitors as of August 31, compared to 3,644 for the same period last year. Donations to date were $3,884. The museum closing date is Sunday September 24.
The player piano is in Denver and is awaiting parts.New artifact donations have been received. A whiskey still from the Elliot Ranch was donated by Ella Burnett and a metal lumber mill chain from the lumber mill was acquired.Greg Earl presented the board with ideas for some museum programs.He suggested creating a flow chart for viewing displays as well as developing a scavenger hunt.Administrator search-The search continues for an administrator. The job requires book keeping skills, is part time and offers flexibility.
Budget-The board reviewed the fiscal year 2016-2017 year-end budget numbers. Hector will take a look at the template previously used from past years to create a guide sheet for next year’s budget planning.
Book Bids-The board discussed quantity and price of publishing a new book that Kathy had a part in editing. The book is a memoir of growing up on a ranch in the 1940s and contains 40 photographs. The Library District has contributed $500 to the effort to get this book published.
Past Perfect Software-The board is awaiting availability of the new Past Perfect software, expected to be out soon and will be renewing its membership in AASHLA prior to purchasing.
Continuing Business
Website Upgrade-Marion shared some information about the Aspen website designer. Cost is about $40 per hour.
Colorado Gives-Laura Thompson will attend the next Eagle County Gives meeting.
Miscellaneous-On Tuesday, September 19, ECHS partners with Walking Mountain Science Center for a history tour of Red Cliff. Friday, September 22, second graders visit the museum. Monday, September 25, Joanne represents ECHS at Battle Mountain High School for the Community Fund check hand-out.
Next ECHS Board Meeting-October 7, 2017, 8:15 a.m., Eagle Town Hall
Dates to Remember
Thursday, October 5-Horn Ranch Hike
April 2017
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
April 6, 2017
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Sandy Van Campen, Joanne Cermak
Election of Officers (two year term)
Vice President Cindy JonesFinancial Officer Hector OrdonezMembership Exec Marion LaughlinA motion was made, seconded and passed approving the slate of officers.
New Business
Old West Gambling Night-Plans for April 28’s fund raising event, Old West Gambling Night, were initiated. Board members will be contacting individuals requesting volunteer help for positions as Dealers, Bartenders and Ticket Takers. Doug Cubbison will train dealers the afternoon of the event. Notices of the event have already been posted on the ECHS website and on Facebook, and Kathy has arranged for a news release for the paper. Wooden nickels with the ECHS logo have been ordered. Cindy and Sandy will take care of purchasing snacks and drinks and board members will be setting up and taking down the event venue. Door prizes will be offered throughout the evening, such as ECHS books and merchandise. ECHS is in need of sponsorships for the event.
Museum Business-The museum will open its season on May 19. Jeri has a draft of the docent schedule. A professional business will be hired to do the major cleaning.The necessity of an annual adopt-a-case cleanup was discussed stating that the interiors of the cabinets may not need to be cleaned every year and the volunteers could instead work on museum repairs and exhibit upgrades. A list was made of areas in need of repairs, including the Avon Store and the caboose. Exhibits due for upgrading were Holland Ranch, Horn Camp kitchen, Sophie Knight painting and the text in the Avon store.
The docent luncheon will take place on Wednesday, May 3 at the museum. This mandatory meeting for docents will orient docents with museum procedures and Kathy will give a tour demonstration. Sandwiches will be provided and Jeri will send out a reminder of the date.Memorial Donations-ECHS received $1610.00 in memorial donations for John Bronn. The board will be looking into acquiring a special artifact or display for the museum to honor John’s exceptional dedication to ECHS and the museum.
Ongoing Business
River Park Plan-Cindy reported on the progress of the Town of Eagle River Park Plan. This park will have an impact on Chambers Park and the ECHS museum. A public input gathering will be held April 12, 6-8 p.m. at the Eagle Town Hall Council Chambers. You are invited to visit the plans and leave your comments with a sticky note for consideration by the committee.
Grant Requests-ECHS applied for the Bessie Minor Swift grant from the Bessie Minor Swift Foundation but was rejected. However, this denial lead to an invitation from Colorado Mountain Media to apply for an El Pomar Foundation grant. ECHS was awarded $2500 for the repair of the Nottingham player piano and additional projects.
Dates to Remember
Next ECHS Board Meeting-Thursday, May 4, 8:15 a. m. Eagle Town Hall
Eagle River Park Plan-Public input gathering Wednesday, April 12, 6-8 p.m.
Frontier Gambling Night-Friday, April 28, 7-10:00 p.m. Eagle Ranch Pavilion
John Bronn Memorial-Sunday, April 30, 2 p.m. Red Sky Ranch, Wolcott (lower club)
Nimon-Walker Award-Sunday, May 21, 2 p.m., honoring John Buchholz
Vail Board of Realtors History Class-Wednesday, May 31 and August 30
ECHS partnering with Walking Mountain Science Center-Fulford Tour Tuesday, July 18 and Red Cliff Tour Tuesday, September 19
August 2017
Eagle County Historical Society
Minutes
August 3, 2017
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Hector Ordonez.
New Business
Museum
•Numbers: Cindy reported that 2,818 people visited the museum in July, bringing the total visitors for the year-to-date to 6,114 (compared to 4,871 for the entire 2016 season). The Board generally attributed the increase to the placement of a new banner on the outside of the museum. Lower gas prices and more travelers are probably also a factor. To date, museum donations tally $2,174.
Numbers: Cindy reported that 2,818 people visited the museum in July, bringing the total visitors for the year-to-date to 6,114 (compared to 4,871 for the entire 2016 season). The Board generally attributed the increase to the placement of a new banner on the outside of the museum. Lower gas prices and more travelers are probably also a factor. To date, museum donations tally $2,174.•Nottingham Player Piano: Kathy reported that the piano had been safely moved to Denver and is in the process of being repaired at Jere’s Player Piano. The cost of moving and repairs is being paid for by a grant from the El Pomar Foundation, donations from the John Bronn memorial, and individual gifts. Sandy said that a wood restoration product could be purchased at the Antique Armadillo in Denver. Jere Debecker recommended Kramer’s polish and 0000 steel wool. When the piano returns, the Board will consider staging a celebration at the museum.
Nottingham Player Piano: Kathy reported that the piano had been safely moved to Denver and is in the process of being repaired at Jere’s Player Piano. The cost of moving and repairs is being paid for by a grant from the El Pomar Foundation, donations from the John Bronn memorial, and individual gifts. Sandy said that a wood restoration product could be purchased at the Antique Armadillo in Denver. Jere Debecker recommended Kramer’s polish and 0000 steel wool. When the piano returns, the Board will consider staging a celebration at the museum.•Rainwater leak at door: Cindy reported that a fierce rainstorm allowed water to come into the top of the big barn door. She will speak with Bill Jones about repair options. Repairs would likely take place after the museum closes for the season.
Rainwater leak at door: Cindy reported that a fierce rainstorm allowed water to come into the top of the big barn door. She will speak with Bill Jones about repair options. Repairs would likely take place after the museum closes for the season.•Curator: The Board agreed on the need for a curator. A Board workday will be set up in September to update accession records.
Curator: The Board agreed on the need for a curator. A Board workday will be set up in September to update accession records.•Artifact donations: Kathy reported the donations of the following items:
Artifact donations: Kathy reported the donations of the following items:oOld postage scale
Old postage scaleoAdam’s Rib files and artifacts
Adam’s Rib files and artifactsoWhiskey still from the Elliott homestead on Gore Creek
Whiskey still from the Elliott homestead on Gore CreekWebsite Improvements
•Kathy reported a total of $2,000 in donations for website improvements. Marion suggested that the Board explore the possibility of upgrading the existing site. She will also check with the website designer for Aspen Historical Society for costs and suggestions.
Kathy reported a total of $2,000 in donations for website improvements. Marion suggested that the Board explore the possibility of upgrading the existing site. She will also check with the website designer for Aspen Historical Society for costs and suggestions.Administrator update:
•Janet Hester has accepted the position of administrator for the ECHS.
Janet Hester has accepted the position of administrator for the ECHS.Continuing Business
Fulford hike: This joint project with Walking Mountain Science Center drew 19 people.
Frost Creek Golf Course mining display: Kathy created a small mining display for Frost Creek Golf Course to use during a tournament. Frost Creek will make a donation to the ECHS.
Rummage Sale Work Day: Marion will send out a notice for one more rummage sale workday on Aug. 9.
Membership numbers: Marion reported the ECHS now has 102 members. Five new memberships came in with the Fulford tour.
Verne Albertson book: Kathy continues to work with Verne on the publication of his memoir. The ECHS will make a fiscal contribution to this project.
Upcoming events:
oAug. 14 (Monday) Rifle Heritage Center new exhibits + Rifle Falls FRHA
Aug. 14 (Monday) Rifle Heritage Center new exhibits + Rifle Falls FRHAoAug. 26 (Saturday) Horn Ranch Hike
Aug. 26 (Saturday) Horn Ranch HikeoAug. 30 (Wednesday) Vail Board of Realtors local history class – Kathy
Aug. 30 (Wednesday) Vail Board of Realtors local history class – KathyoSept. 19 ((Tuesday) Red Cliff History Hike with Walking Mountain
Sept. 19 ((Tuesday) Red Cliff History Hike with Walking MountainJuly 2017
Eagle County Historical Society
Board Meeting Minutes
July 13, 2017
Present: Kathy Heicher, Cindy Jones, Marion Laughlin, Sandy Van Campen, Laura Thompson, Joanne Cermak
New Business
Museum Business-Visitors to the museum are up this year as are donations. Approximately 60 to 70 folks visit per day. A tentative closing date was picked, September 24, but this date will be reviewed and adjusted dependent on weather and visitor numbers.
The museum is still in search of a volunteer curator. ECHS has acquired some new artifacts and the curator is needed to handle the accession. The board discussed ideas on how to proceed. Ultimately the board would like to create a paid position but currently does not have the funds to do so. ECHS would need a dedicated source of income to increase operating expenses.Kathy has been in contact with the man who can repair the player piano, but the piano needs to get to his shop in Denver. Laura will call some moving companies to explore costs. The repair will be paid for by an El Pomar grant and John Bronn memorial donations.Several artifact donations have been received. A roll top desk used in the Enterprise newspaper office was donated by the Reynolds/McCain family. It would make a nice addition to the existing display of Enterprise machines but space can be an issue, so Cindy will do some measuring in the barn. A display case and some clothing was donated by the Williams/Olsen family. The Leonard Horn bridle will be taken to the leather repair shop for some minor repair, then displayed along with pictures and story.Administrator search-The search continues for an administrator. The scope of the job was discussed, perhaps the job could be divided into two positions, bookkeeping duties and administrative duties.
Books-Kathy is helping Vern Albertson with his book about growing up in Burns. She will also inquire whether the booklet she wrote, The History of Sylvan Lake State Park, might be updated and published for public sale by the historical society. Presently, only a few copies of the booklet exist.
Continuing Business
Membership-Marion reported ECHS has 98 members.
Memorial Donations-Two-thousand one-hundred and thirty-five dollars were donated in memory of John Bronn. After discussing ways in which to use this money, it was decided to use some of it to complete the cost of the player piano repair.
Website Upgrade-ECHS plans on upgrading its website and has had some donations earmarked for this project. The board was tasked with visiting the websites of some other local historical societies, Aspen, Georgetown, Colorado Springs and the Museum of Western Colorado. Kathy will be visiting the Aspen Historical Society next Monday and will ask about how they developed its site.
Colorado Gives-ECHS has updated its information for Colorado Gives Day 2017. Sandy attended the meeting held by the Eagle County Colorado Gives organization which works on marketing efforts for the non-profits.
Next ECHS Board Meeting-August 3, 2017, 8:15 a.m., Eagle Town Hall
Dates to Remember
Fulford History Hike with Walking Mountains-Tuesday, July 18
Gardeners On the Go walking tour of Eagle-Wednesday, July 26, 9:45
Red Cliff History Hike with Walking Mountains-Tuesday, September 19