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June 17, 2009
April 15, 2009
November 19, 2008
September 17, 2008
June 18, 2008
April 30, 2008
February 27,2008
November 28, 2007
October 24, 2007
September 26, 2007
June 27, 2007
RI Veterans Cemetery, Exeter
In Attendance: Evelyn Wheeler, Edna Kent, Henry Duquette, Judith Fardig, Robert Butler, James Spears, Letty Champion, Pegee Malcolm, Bruce MacGunnigle, Carolyn Crist- Schwab, Paul Robinson, David Kirchner, Lee Teverow
Excused Absences: Sally Small
Meeting called to order at 6:50 pm by Chairwoman Wheeler
1. Introduction of Minutes April 15, 2009
Sally Small submitted a correction via e-mail, which was distributed to members
Motion to accept minutes as amended by Bruce MacGunnigle, with a second by
Judith Fardig
11 – 0 to accept minutes as amended
2. Next year’s meeting schedule
3. Chairwoman Wheeler reported that an Eagle Scout had thoroughly cleaned Lincoln #30. Overgrowth was cleared, poison ivy was killed, existing railings were repaired, donations for new railings were obtained, and a local representative donated $50 for a new sign. The Scout was unable to attend the meeting and do his presentation, but will attend a future meeting. Chairwoman Wheeler encouraged all Commission Members to ask their local representatives for donations for signs
4. Report from RIACHC Purpose and Rules Committee – Lee Teverow
Introduced and read the minutes of the June 8, 2009 meeting
Discussion regarding the fact that the RIACHC is a conduit for passing information
Commission members must bring to the full Commission any issues that are not fully addressed by RIGL, and the full Commission must approve responses involving a dispute
Recommend adding to the Rules and Regulations information regarding duties of officers, commission members, term limits, and procedures for nomination of officers
Motion to request that the Purpose and Rules Committee draft suggested additions to the Rules and Regulations and bring back to full Committee by Bruce MacGunnigle, with a second by Robert Butler
13 - 0 to approve motion
5. Chairwoman Wheeler reported that Heather MacDonald has agreed to a compromise with regard to her original request to renumber two EG cemeteries
6. Report on Rules and Regulations filing by Chairwoman Wheeler
Rules and Regulations have officially been adopted – distributed at meeting
Ted Sanderson from the RI Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission recommended changes via a letter
· Modify Rule !: Purpose to read “The purpose of these rules and regulations is to establish the operating procedures of the Advisory Commission on Historical Cemeteries”
· Modify Rule 2: Authority to read “…promulgated pursuant to Chapter 23-18.3-1…”
7. Report on Archives by Chairwoman Wheeler
Chairwoman Wheeler provided the RI State Archives with copies of the original Commission’s meeting minutes, as well as the last 3 years of the current Commission’s meeting minutes
8. Report on Locust Grove Cemetery (PV004) database by Chairwoman Wheeler
Now complete with the exception of 6 stones that need to be checked. John Sterling has been provided with the information.
9. Gary Alexander, the new Director of the RI Department of Human Services sent letters requesting proposals. Discussion tabled.
10. Report on proposal for website by Henry Duquette
Introduced and reviewed the Proposal
Henry will review with Kenneth Rahn who is currently administering the database website
11. DOT letters received for proposed project in Pawtucket
Discussion regarding possibly drafting a “Form Letter” that thanks the DOT for informing the Commission, and refers them to the appropriate local authority. Henry Duquette and Paul Robinson will develop a draft for review.
12. Other Business
a. Bruce MacGunnigle reported that he found reference to two cemeteries on his street while researching deeds, but that they only appeared to be in use for a very short period before being moved . They have been identified as EG #90 and #91, and he has been able to determine who the likely burials were and where they have been relocated to.
b. Robert Butler discussed a cemetery on Fish Hill Road on West Greenwich/Coventry line that appeared in an 1840 deed but was moved in the 1900’s to Maple Root Cemetery. John Sterling is going to assign a number to it, but the owner of the property, who landscaped the area, says there is no evidence of it
c. Sally Small, via e-mail, suggested that the Commission consider setting up workshops for gravestone photography. The Rhode Island Genealogical Society is doing one in September.
d. Coventry Cemetery Commission had a meeting on June 16, and there were about 15 in attendance. Next meeting July 7th – location TBD
e. Chairwoman Wheeler passed around “In and About Westerly” by Thomas O’Connell, who was in attendance
Bruce MacGunnigle made a motion to adjourn the meeting, with a second by Robert Butler. Meeting adjourned at 8:45 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Emily Corbett, Secretary
Warren Senior Center
In Attendance: Evelyn Wheeler, Edna Kent, Henry Duquette, Judith Fardig, Sally Small, James Spears, Letty Champion, Pegee Malcolm, Bruce MacGunnigle, Carolyn Crist- Schwab, Paul Robinson, David Kirchner, Lee Teverow
Excused Absences: Robert Butler
Meeting called to order at 6:55 pm by Chairwoman Wheeler
Chairwoman Wheeler announced that the meeting would be filmed by someone making a documentary and asked if there were any objections – no objections.
Next Commission Meeting will be held June 17th at 6:45pm at the Exeter Veterans Cemetery, Administration Office.
Introduction of Minutes November 19, 2008
Lee Teverow requested that the minutes be modified to reflect that the Rules and Regulations are in DRAFT form Motion to accept minutes as amended by Bruce MacGunnigle, with a second by Judith Fardig
12 – 0 to accept minutes as amended
Paul Robinson discussed his concerns that the Chairwoman had written letters to the DOT in response to their requests for input regarding construction projects in Cumberland, and that the letters had been drafted without consensus of the other members, and went beyond the Commission’s scope and purpose. It was agreed that the Commission is currently limited statutorily to advise only the General Assembly, so should refer such requestors to the City or Town.
Lee Teverow made a motion to form a subcommittee to clarify the purpose of the Commission, who the Commission reports to, who the Commission advises, and on what, with a second by Pegee Malcolm
13 – 0 to form a subcommittee
Subcommittee members: Pegee Malcolm, Jim Spears, Henry Duquette, Paul Robinson and Lee Teverow
Kenneth Rahn provided an update on the cemetery database, and it was noted that he will work on a maiden name index, and entering the stone type information as well. Discussion regarding who owns and is responsible for maintaining the database, and that there needs to be a formal and official process. Henry Duquette agreed to draft an outline of questions and proposals for next meeting.
Henry Duquette discussed that Burriville will be conducting workshops for property owners whose property abuts cemeteries, including information on adoption, caring for cemeteries, legal issues, and rights of way. He requested information on Rights of Way, and was referred to CRMC and RI General Law.
Evelyn discussed S0010/H5231 which increases the fine to $5000 for damage to a soldiers and sailors tomb, monument, or gravestone.
Sally Small reported that the RI DAR chapter continues to work on a project of locating and photographing pictures of the original DAR members; Barrington Cemetery Commission is continuing their photographic inventory project.
Evelyn Wheeler reported that the GIS project has 830 locations recorded, with 61 confirmed. She is coordinating the project and is looking for volunteers.
Edna Kent reported that Ponagansett High School has 16 gravestones on their property that need to be located; Need volunteers with a chainsaw to clear tree growth; Eagle Scout is going to clean the Pain-Martin cemetery.
DOT is requesting the Commission’s input on a project in Little Compton which James Spears didn’t get a chance to take a look at. Commission members agreed that it’s not within their scope.
Developer for a Hopkington truck stop is hiring PAL to do a survey.
Earth Day Events
Judy Fardig: North Burial Ground
Pegee Malcolm: Brayton Cemetery 4/25 and 4/26
Henry Duquette: 3 cemeteries on 4/18
Evelyn Wheeler: Knightsville Cemetery (continued)
Lee Teverow reported that a Brown professor is looking for information on slave cemeteries in RI – Newport, North Burial Ground, North Main Street
Evelyn Wheeler reported that the documentation project for Locust Grove Cemetery in Providence is up to the “M’s”.
Pegee Malcolm reported that the monuments were laid today for the Route 37 reburial project, and that landscaping will be done.
Chairwoman Wheeler reviewed the RIGL amendments that were previously distributed to Commission members and will be introduced soon. Lee Teverow requested that the full text of the laws, as well as an up-to-date copy of the amended sections be sent to everyone prior to approval.
Bruce MacGunnigle made a motion to adjourn the meeting, with a second by Pegee Malcolm. Meeting adjourned at 9:02 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Emily Corbett, Secretary
Commissioners in attendance: Evelyn Wheeler, Margaret Malcolm, Judith Fardig, Sally Small, Edna M. Kent, Henry Duquette, Lee Teverow, Bruce MacGunnigle, Robert S. Butler, Paul A. Robinson, Carolyn Crist-Schwab.
Chairwoman Evelyn Wheeler called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m.
Minutes
Lee Teverow said Goal 1 on development of the Commission’s Web site should be amended to include wording that work continue on the cemetery database linked to the site. The wording is needed to ensure the base is considered the principal, up-to-date location for Rhode Island cemetery data. A motion to accept the minutes as amended was made by Bruce MacGunnigle, with a second by Edna Kent. The motion passed unanimously.
Member reports
Chairwoman Wheeler reported that the Secretary of State has accepted the Commission’s Rules and Regulations (32-18-3.1) and will make them available on the Secretary of State’s Web site.
Chairwoman Wheeler announced the Commission’s next meeting will be held April 15 at 6:45 p.m. in the Warren Senior Center, Kickemuit Village housing for the elderly, 20 Libby Lane, Warren.
Chairwoman Wheeler reported she was contacted by the Johnston Historical Society over plans by the developer of a Walgreen’s drug store to build the store up to the wall of an adjacent historical cemetery. Wheeler reported that the Town of Johnston has issued a cease and desist order at the site on Cherry Hill Lane off Atwood Avenue. After much discussion over the role the Chairwoman should play in the controversy, the Commission suggested the Chairwoman act only in an advisory capacity to Johnston officials.
Chairwoman Wheeler reported she has received several calls from people concerned about perpetual care not be being given to grave sites. Bruce MacGunnigle reported there are sections of State Law (23-18-8.3 and 23.18.9) that deal with how perpetual care money is to be use, how it must be kept in a separate account from other cemetery monies, and how it is to be invested.
Chairwoman Wheeler reported she met with her State Representative on re-introducing in January those rules and regulations of the Commission that have not yet passed the General Assembly. She said those include more members from Providence County, and to have a Commission quorum consist of 50 percent of members plus 1.
Paul Robinson reported he had been contacted by Doug Harris, the deputy historian of the Narragansett Indian Tribe, wanting to know if the Commission knew anything about an Indian burial mound having been located on Willow Avenue in Narragansett. Chairwoman Wheeler, who lives in Narragansett, said she would “talk to some of the old-timers in town.”
Margaret Malcolm moved and Robert Butler seconded a motion that Chairwoman Wheeler provide Commission members with a monthly newsletter on her activities, along with issues she knew of that might impact the Commission. The motion passed unanimously.
Lee Teverow reported that she is trying to make the data base more accessible and still trying to get an updated version of the database.
Edna Kent reported that two test holes were dug next to the mounds in Gloucester and they turned up only charcoal and stones.
Chairwoman Wheeler reported that volunteers are still documenting Locust Grove Cemetery in Providence. There is more to do and volunteers are needed.
Sally Small reported that the Daughters of the American Revolution was trying to locate the graves of 760 “real” Rhode Island daughters of the Revolution -- those who were the daughters of fathers who fought in the Revolutionary War. The DAR wants to re-set their stones and mark them. So far, 26 have been done.
Closing
The meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. on a motion from Evelyn Wheeler and a second by Robert Butler.
After-Meeting Presentation
Kenneth Rahn Jr. gave an update of the Rhode Island Historical Cemeteries web site, and the Locust Grove Cemetery project. He also reported that descriptions of individual cemeteries should be added in the next week or so. They also want to add a comment section.
Sally Small had a question about a grave for Amey Evelyth buried in Locust Grove. She was given the correct lot number.
Member report on summer activities:
Warwick or East Greenwich location TBA
April 15, 2009: Warren Senior Center
June 17, 2009: Veteran’s Cemetery Conference Room
September 16, 2009:
Preservation Society Discussion regarding whether a work session needs to be scheduled for October to work on additional legislative modification suggestions. Decision was made to attempt to reintroduce previously proposed legislation for the January 2009 session before working on any new ones.
Demonstration by Kenneth Rahn on the new, searchable website for RI Graves. Following the demonstration, there was a general discussion regarding the future of the current database, and the scope of Kenneth’s project. Motion by Bruce MacGunnigle to offer thanks to Kenneth Rahn for the time and effort he has put into this project.
Report on the Commission’s accomplishments over the past two years:
1. Updated the “black book” and delivered them to all cities and towns to help make them aware of the historic value of our cemeteries
2. Helped several cities and towns to formulate awareness and adoption programs for historical cemeteries including Historical Cemetery Committees
3. Requested cities and towns put cemeteries on their plat maps
4. Put up a website, www.historicalcemeteries.ri.gov with the help of a volunteer webmaster and RI.gov
5. Arranged to have John Sterling and Deby Nunes work on a link to make the website available to all instead of at a few libraries
6. Through news articles in the area newspapers and the NY Times, we have recruited many volunteers to clean up and document many cemeteries – on Earth Day as well as other times of the year.
Nominations and Elections for Chairperson and Vice Chairperson:
1. Bruce MacGunnigle nominated Evelyn Wheeler for Chairperson with a second by Robert Butler. Voted 7 – 0 for approval with Evelyn Wheeler and Pegee Malcolm abstaining
2. Bruce MacGunnigle nominated Pegee Malcolm for Vice Chairperson with a second by Robert Butler. Voted 7 – 0 for approval with Evelyn Wheeler and Pegee Malcolm abstaining
Discussion regarding possible goals for the next year:
1. Continue with website development
2. Reintroduce previously proposed legislation for January 2009 session
3. Help cities and towns that still need a cemetery commission (14/39) with a focus on Coventry and Foster first
4. GPS readings for all cemeteries by June 2009
5. Photographs of all slate stones by June 2009
6. Find additional sources for volunteers to assist with cemetery cleanups
7. Work with locations who have the full database to fix printing issues, starting with the RIHS library and asking Roger Beaudry for assistance
Motion to adjourn meeting at 8:35 pm and begin Open Forum by Chairwoman Wheeler
Katelyn Baccari asked for some information regarding what to do with the EG gravestone photos she is taking as they accumulate, and a decision was made to save them on CD or DVD for now. Commission will follow up with John Sterling and Barbara Austin for suggestions. New signs will not be made, as the workshop has been closed down. 80 old signs were found, with 20 still left to be picked up. Discussion regarding the Missing in America Project, an organization dedicated to locating and interring unclaimed cremation remains. Possible new cemetery found in Charlestown on Nature Conservatory grounds A new cemetery (SK 204) has been located in South Kingstown
Open Meeting adjourned at 8:52 pm
Next Meeting: November 19, 2008 at 6:30 pm – location TBA
Minutes of Meeting June 18, 2008
Warren Senior Center, Warren
In attendance: Pegee Malcolm, Judy Fardig, Sally Small, Bruce MacGunnigle, Paul Robinson, Robert Butler, Lee Teverow Excused Absences: Evelyn Wheeler, David Kirchner, Carolyn Crist-Schwab, Edna Kent, Roger Beaudry
Meeting called to order at 6:47 pm by Pegee Malcom, Co-Chair
Recommendation by Pegee Malcolm that the Meeting Minutes include Commission Members who are excused from the meetings
Introduction of Minutes of February 27, 2008 Work Session by Pegee Malcolm Motion to accept minutes by Robert Butler, second by Judy Fardig 7 – 0 to accept minutes
Introduction of Minutes of April 30, 2008 by Pegee Malcom Motion to accept minutes by Lee Teverow, second by Robert Butler 7 – 0 to accept minutes
Any cemetery signs that are on order are on hold as “non-essential” – may know more after July 1st
Narragansett and Cranston are in the process of starting Cemetery Commissions – volunteers are needed to approach the remaining towns/cities: Providence, North Providence, North Smithfield, Foster, Richmond, Woonsocket, Scituate, Jamestown, Lincoln, and Newport
Steps to register new or found cemeteries
Report by Pegee Malcolm on the status of the remains found in the basement of the Potowomut home
Sally Small recommended that the procedure that individuals/companies should follow if remains are found on their property be posted on the Commission’s website to assist people in knowing what to do
Lee Teverow discussed the fact that the computer at the RI Historical Society that has the database on it is not going to last much longer, and that the DOS database only runs on Windows 95, so will need to be converted if a new computer is purchased
Bruce MacGunnigle discussed an out-of-state ancestor of one of EG’s Historical Cemeteries has a meeting scheduled at the Town Hall the following day. She is insisting that her ancestor’s cemetery be re-numbered to be 10. Mr. MacGunnigle did extensive research on the history of the cemetery, and prepared a report to be attached to the minutes
Pegee Malcolm announced that the Route 37 reburial is scheduled for June 24th – June 27th at Knight Street State Institution Cemetery.
Pegee Malcolm discussed that the Cemetery Commission has an Intern, through the Secretary of State, who is working on recording GPS coordinates under Evelyn Wheeler, Chairwoman’s direction
Sally Small discussed that the next phase of grave restoration, for slate markers, has been coordinated by the Barrington Cemetery Commission for August 18th – 22nd
Motion to close meeting at 8 pm and begin Open Forum by Robert Butler, second by Judy Fardig Two members of the Tiverton Historical Cemetery Commission discussed that the Newport Daily News published an extensive story today regarding member Isobel Hart completed project to create and place concrete footstones for 63 identified burials in the pauper cemetery adjacent to the Tiverton Town Hall
Motion to adjourn at 8:15 by Bruce MacGunnigle, second by Robert Butler. Voted 7 – 0 to adjourn.
Next Meeting: September 17th at 6:30 pm at the West Greenwich Town Hall
Respectfully submitted by Emily Corbett
Glocester Town Hall, Chepachet
In attendance: Evelyn Wheeler, Judy Fardig, Sally Small, Bruce MacGunnigle, Carolyn Crist-Schwab, Lee Teverow, David Kirchner, Robert Butler
Meeting called to order at 6:35 pm by Evelyn Wheeler, Chairwoman
(1) Chairwoman Wheeler proposed a vote on the Rules and Regulations
Sally Small suggested several small changes in wording, and all members agreed upon those changes
Finalized Rules and Regulations as follows (noted changes underlined):
Meetings will be held on the 3rd Wednesday of September, November, April and June, and at the call of the Chair for special meetings
Follow most recent Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised if there is an issue
Quorum shall constitute 50% of current membership +1, members must be present and voting
Notice of meetings to be posted on the Secretary of State website in accordance with open meeting laws
Approved minutes of meetings will be posted on the Secretary of State website in accordance with open meeting laws
Members will demonstrate a commitment to the organization’s mission as stated in the GL 23-18.3.1
Members will contribute his/her skills and knowledge
Members will inform him/herself on issues that affect the organization’s goals as stated in the GL 23-18.3.1
Members will not miss more than three consecutive, unexcused meetings
Chairwoman Wheeler again called for a vote to approve the amended Rules and Regulations. Voted 8-0 to approve.
(2) Chairwoman Wheeler distributed the proposed modifications to RI GL 23-18.3-2 that were the result of a meeting with Karen Ellsworth
It was noted by the Commission members that the quorum in the proposed legisla-
tion was written as 11, with the understanding that additional members would be added. Commission members requested that Chairwoman Wheeler ask that it be modified to read 50% of current membership +1.
Bruce MacGunnigle moved to endorse the proposed legislation with the amendment noted above, with Judy Fardig seconding the motion.
Voted 8-0 to endorse
(3) Chairwoman Wheeler read Ron Onorato’s resignation letter to the Commission
Bruce MacGunnigle moved to accept the resignation with regret, with a second by Judy Fardig.
Voted 8-0 to accept
(4) Historical Cemetery Commissions and Boards: West Warwick Town Council officially approved the Cemetery Commission; Cranston is looking to begin one under the Historical Society or Planning Board
(5) The Route 37 reburial has been rescheduled to May 31st at 1:00 pm at the North Burial Ground
(6) Discussion of possible committees: Promotional and publicity, Volunteer Coordinators, Recruiters for Historical Cemetery Committees
Discussion centered around concerns about cleanups that might be organized, with or without the Commission’s knowledge, and what can be done if folks are not following the proper notification procedure or the “Do’s and Don’ts”
(7) Motion to adjourn meeting and begin Open Forum at 7:55 pm by Judy Fardig, with a second by Robert Butler
Voted 8-0 to adjourn meeting and begin Open Forum
(8) Discussion of the damage that tree roots can do in terms of naturally toppling stones
(9) Thirty volunteers gathered to help the Friends of Smithfield Cemeteries to repair the stones that were toppled in Greenville Cemetery in Smithfield on April 26th. The vandalized stones were back up in 2 ½ hours!
(10)Benjamin Emerson stone with SAR emblem found in Cumberland
(11)Discussion of a cemetery cleanup in Burriville that is thwarted by neighbors throwing grass clippings into the cemetery repeatedly. Attendees suggested doing an article in the local paper regarding the problem, and having the local paper print the laws relevant to the fines if stones are covered up. Other suggestions included making copies of the laws and mailing it to the neighbors that are doing it
Next Meeting: June 18th in Warren. Location TBA
Respectfully Submitted by Emily Corbett
Buttonwoods Senior Center, Warwick
In attendance: Evelyn Wheeler, Edna Kent, Roger Beaudry, Judy Fardig, Sally Small, Margaret “Pegee” Malcolm, Bruce MacGunnigle, Carolyn Crist-Schwab
Meeting called to order at 6:35 pm by Evelyn Wheeler, Chairwoman
1. Report from members on Historical Societies or Conservation Commissions
Below are 24 out of 39 cities/towns:
Charlestown: Charlestown Conservation Commission – Francis Fenner – 364-9964, Appointed by Town Administrator
Coventry: Charles Vacca
Cumberland: Lester Hilton and Michael Scalzi
Exeter: Town oversees, and Town Council president has to give permission for cleaning
Pawtucket: DPW
Smithfield: Friends of Smithfield Historical Cemeteries
Tiverton: Historical Cemetery Commission under Town Administrator
Warren: Warren Cemetery Commission – chartered – Judy Fardig
West Greenwich: West Greenwich Cemetery Commission – Charlene Butler
Westerly: Westerly Historical Society
Little Compton: town oversees
South Kingstown: town oversees through the Town Clerk
Warwick: Warwick Cemetery Commission under Planning Department
Bristol: Bristol Historical Cemetery Commission board
East Providence: East Providence Historical Society – Ray Batcher
Cranston: City Planning Department
Middletown: Middletown Historical Society
Burrillville: Burrillville Historical Society – Ron LaPierre
Barrington has a Cemetery Commission
Hopkinton – Laurie Arruda
Narragansett – Evelyn Wheeler
Block Island/New Shoreham – DPW looks after
Portsmouth – no official group but Herb Hall and Skip Grinnel of Water Dept
West Warwick – soon through Planning Board and Carol Rogers
Sally Small recommended that a complete and updated list (including contact information) be compiled and posted on the website. A volunteer recruiter is needed to approach the other towns not listed above.
2. Rules and Regulations that were voted on last time were reviewed, and modifications were recommended
1. Modify to read: Meetings will be held on the 3rd Wednesday of September, November, April and June, and at the call of the Chair for special meetings
4. Modify to read: Follow most recent Roberts Rules of Order Newly
Revised if there is an issue
5. It was noted that RIGL 23-18.3.2 states that a quorum shall constitute 11 members. Chairwoman Wheeler was urged by the Commission members to recommend that the law be changed to 50% of membership +1
3. Discussion of the Commission’s role when “new” cemeteries are discovered, and what “registering” means. It was agreed that the Commission’s role is advisory only.
4. Item (i) of Title 23 states that a chairperson shall be elected annually, and makes no mention of a Vice-Chairperson. It was agreed that Chairwoman Wheeler will recommend the inclusion of an elected Vice-Chairperson. Further, the Commission members in attendance agreed to table new elections until September of 2008
5. Discussion of Ron Onorato’s resignation deferred to next open meeting
6. Discussion of possible Committees (Promotional, Volunteer Coordinators, Recruiters for each town, School Mentoring) was deferred until a further discussion with Karen Ellsworth on Bylaws can be scheduled
7. Chairwoman Wheeler discussed RIGL’s that are in the works. Chairwoman Wheeler, Pegee Malcom, Sally Small, and Carolyn Crist-Schwab will attend a meeting with Karen Ellsworth – date to be determined
8. Chairwoman Wheeler announced that the Newport County cemetery information index will soon be on the website, thanks to the help of John Sterling and Debbie Nunes
9. Discussion of Mission and Purpose tabled until further discussion regarding Bylaws
10. Next Earth Day cleanup is scheduled for April 19th, with a rain date of April 26th. Chairwoman Wheeler is participating in a large-scale clean-up of Pocasset Cemetery in Cranston, and Cranston has offered dumpsters and volunteers. Carolyn Crist-Schwab discussed the need for oversight and responsibility of volunteers.
11. Commission appointments end in September of this year, and members interested in remaining on the Commission should draft a letter of intent. Chairwoman Wheeler to determine who the letters should be sent to, and will notify Commission members.
Work session adjourned at 8:25 pm on a motion by Chairwoman Wheeler and a second by Bruce MacGunnigle
Next meeting: April 30th at 6:30 pm in Chepachet at the Glocester Town Hall in the Council Chambers
Respectfully submitted by Emily Corbett
Meeting called to order at 6:07 pm
In attendance: Evelyn Wheeler, Edna Kent, Roger Beaudry, Sally Small, Rosemarie Mello, Pegee Malcom, Bruce MacGunnigle, Paul Robinson, Lee Teverow, Dave Kirchner
Old Business: Meeting minutes from October 24, 2007 – several minor corrections were noted Motion to approve minutes with corrections noted: 9 – 0 in favor Next meeting confirmed – April 30th at the Chepachet Senior Center or Town Hall
New Business:
Regular meeting adjourned 8:33 pm Open Forum
Meeting adjourned 8:45 pm
Respectfully submitted by Emily Corbett
Old State House, Providence
Present Chairwoman Evelyn Wheeler called the work session to order at 6:40 p.m. Other Commissioners present were Roger Beaudry, Robert Butler (RI League of Cities and Towns), Daniel Evangelista (Veterans Affairs), Judith Fardig, Edna Kent, Margaret “Pegee” Malcolm, Paul Robinson (RIHPC), and Sally Small. Bruce Frail, grant consultant, was also present.
Discussions A discussion was held on the possibility of requesting that each city or town or local historical society contribute $425 each that would be used for a statewide data base benefiting each city and town. The data base would lead to cemetery improvement through graves registration, cemetery documentation, etc. Edna Kent will draft a letter for discussion at the next regularly scheduled meeting.
Chairwoman Wheeler mentioned that the Commission is proceeding with an application for a grant from Preserve Rhode Island, administered through Citizens Bank. Chairwoman Wheeler said such grants are matching and usually total $300 to $1,000.
Bruce Frail submitted a four-page report to Commission members on plans of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War/Department of Rhode Island to restore the St. James/Bernon Cemetery in Woonsocket. Mr. Frail, who serves as graves registration officer and project manager for the SUVCW/Dept. of Rhode Island’s Graves Registration Committee, discussed the report in detail. He estimated the total restoration cost at $139,491 for the 2+-acre cemetery, which had 232 internments, including Henry C. Davis, 17, the first Rhode Island soldier to die in the Civil War.
Chairwoman Wheeler announced that Ron Onorato of Newport has resigned from the Commission.
Chairwoman Wheeler, at the urging of the Commission, will discuss with the state Representatives who filed the bill setting up the Commission the possibility of adding up to four (4) members to the Commission from Providence County. The additional members will be of help with the large amount of historic cemeteries in Providence County. She will also ask the Representatives about the possibility of amending the law creating the Commission to allow for staggered terms and longer terms for members.
(2)
Chairwoman Wheeler discussed a suggestion from the Attorney General’s Office that the Commission adopt rules and regulations. Among the suggestions discussed by Commission members were: having a quorum equal fifty (50) percent of Commission members, plus one (1); and for the removal of any Commissioner who misses three (3) consecutive meetings.
Daniel Evangelista discussed Rhode Island Public Law 30-25-12 that calls on the General Assembly to appropriate money from time to time to care for the neglected graves of veterans. He said there might be the possibility of obtaining money for the clearing of graves and their surroundings through the law. He said he will try to determine the last time money was appropriated for such purposes, if ever, and whether money is still in that account, if ever appropriated.
Pegee Malcolm asked about the possibility of obtaining a sign for State Institutional Cemetery #2, where internments are being re-buried. Mr. Evangelista said he would find out.
Adjourment The work session was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. on a motion by Judith Fardig and a second by Daniel Evangelista.
Next Meeting The Commission will meet on Nov. 28 at the Buttonwoods Senior Center, West Shore Road, Warwick. The Commissioners will meet in public from 6:30 to 7 p.m. An executive session will be held at 7 p.m. An open forum session will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Meeting called to order at 6:35 pm
Members present: Evelyn Wheeler, Edna Kent, Roger Beaudry, Judy Fardig, , Pegee Malcom, Bruce MacGunnigle, Carolyn Crist-Schwab, Rosemarie Mello, Sally Small, Charlotte Taylor, Robert Butler
Old Business
I. Minutes of Regular Open Meeting June 27, 2007 • Approved 9 -0
New Business
I. Upcoming meeting schedule (all regular meetings will be held the last Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm)
- Work Session: October 24th at RIHPC (150 Benefit St. Providence) to coordinate statewide clean-up, discuss rules and regulations for the Commission, and to complete Citizens Bank “Preserve RI” grant application
- November 28th at Buttonwoods Senior Center, Warwick
- April 30th: Chepachet Senior Center?
- May 28th: Warren Senior Center?
- Sept 24th: West Greenwich?
II. Next statewide clean-up is November 3rd
- Keep Blackstone Valley Clean and Environmental Services in Providence have offered the use of tools, gloves, bags, etc… to aid in the clean-up
- Commission is taking suggestions for cemeteries that need cleaning
III. Charlotte Taylor from RIHPC
- Federal law protects cultural resources of states, but cemeteries are often not eligible for the National Register
- The RI Cemeteries Act protects cemeteries, but RIHPC does not have direct authority – the Act gives the towns and cities authority
- RIHPC will write letters to towns/cities regarding the preservation of cemeteries, but their main role is to assist in ensuring that the archaeology is done properly
IV. Discussion regarding Citizens Bank “Preserve RI” grant application ($500 - $1000 match required) due by October 29th
- State House can help to set up a bank account
V. Report on Book deliveries
- The general consensus was that the Book was well-received by the majority of the recipients
- Bristol and Barrington almost complete – need 2 more big books and 1 more small book
- Burriville, Scituate and Foster are almost complete – 2 more to deliver (Burriville HS and Foster Library)
- Johnston City Clerk, Portsmouth, Middletown, New Shoreham, Jamestown, Glocester, East Greenwich, Cumberland, Woonsocket, Lincoln, Smithfield, North Smithfield, Barrington, Coventry, Exeter, West Greenwich, Warwick, West Warwick, Cranston, East Providence, North Providence, and South Kingstown are completed
- Bruce included information on East Greenwich Cemeteries in all the books he delivered
VI. Upcoming Events
- Senior Fair at Warwick Mall on October 10th 9 – 4 – looking for volunteers to help staff the booth
- Cultural Fair at Foxwoods on October 20th – looking for volunteers to help staff the booth
VII. Report on West Greenwich Cemetery GPS coordinates project
- 103 of the 153 recorded cemeteries have been done
- Work should be completed within the next two months
- John Sterling and others are assisting with the project
VIII. SUVCW report: Bruce Frail
- St. James Cemetery in Woonsocket restoration project going well
- To date, 180 burial locations, including all 14 veterans, have been identified
- The owner of the property is interested in donating the land, and the hope is to restore the property into a park and cemetery
IX. Individual Town and City Cemetery Commissions
- Warwick, Tiverton, Coventry, Barrington, Warren, Westerly, Narragansett, Smithfield, Cumberland, and Charlestown all have either a Commission, or a division of their Historical Society that focuses on cemeteries
- West Warwick is looking at creating a Commission
X. Other New Business
- Newport Daily News: September 25th did a story on the photographic documentation of the Common Burial Ground in Newport
- Volunteers are needed for GPS readings of cemeteries to be submitted to RIGIS
- Planning on coordinating with Hendricken Community Service to get volunteers to help with cemetery clean-ups, etc…
- Eugene Card (Scituate) looking for volunteers to help get cemetery clean-up debris loaded in a dumpster this weekend – volunteers can contact him by phone
Open Forum
- Discussion of the smallpox cemetery located on Naval War College property – attendees were seeking advice on who to contact regarding this cemetery, which is now covered by a tennis court
- Common Burial Ground Commission – discussed placement of new sign in 2005 and Newport’s Park Warden involvement
- Scituate Library is looking for the full RI Historical Cemeteries database
- Attendee interested in doing a documentary on historical cemeteries in RI – requesting advice and contact person suggestions
- Barrington Cemetery Commission has a retired teacher who has offered to take photographs of stones
- General discussion on the need to document the stones in cemeteries; including transcriptions, photographs, mapping; as much as possible since the stones that are legible now may not be legible 25 years from now
- Discussion of a property owner in Newport whose driveway appears to be encroaching on a historical cemetery
Meeting adjourned 8:05 pm
Respectfully Submitted by Emily Corbett
Meeting called to order at 6:35 pm
Members present: Evelyn Wheeler, Edna Kent, Roger Beaudry, Judy Fardig, Pegee Malcom, Bruce MacGunnigle, Carolyn Schwab, Rosemarie Mello, Robert Butler.
Old Business
I. Minutes of work session on May 30, 2007 • Approved 9 -0 to waive reading of the minutes, Accepted 9-0
II. Report on findings for contacts at town halls regarding cemeteries 1 Distributed form for noting any additional contacts, returned to Evelyn
New Business
I. Discussion regarding next year’s meeting schedule 1 Approved 9-0 to continue moving location around state 2 Approved 8-1 to continue holding the meetings at 6:30 pm on last Wednesday of the month
II. Books are ready for commission members to be delivered to their counties. • A copy will go to each Town/City Clerk, Assessor, Planner, Historical Society (if applicable), and Library. • Separate copy to each Town/City Department of Public Works and Police Department • Books will be delivered to the above personally and each commission member will make note of the delivery.
III. Discussion regarding opening a checking acct for Tax Exempt app • Voted 9-0 to go through the Secretary of State and check into Certified Local Government status
IV. Discussion on a Fall Cleanup state-wide • Approved 9-0 to schedule one for the first week of November
V. Report on State House visit by Pegee and Evelyn • 9 Ordinances were presented to Karen Ellsworth, Counsel for the Finance Commission • Informed that ordinances involving giving descendants right of way to pass and re-pass on private property were not going to be approved • Two were on the calendar, but were passed over and will be reintroduced next session. Others will be reintroduced also.
VI. Other New Business • Bruce MacGunnigle distributed References to Cemetery, Cemeteries, Burial, and Burials in East Greenwich, RI, Charter, Comprehensive Plan and Ordinances
Open Forum
Representation from Chepachet, Pawtucket, Johnston, Smithfield, North Smithfield, East Greenwich, Cumberland
I. Don Gagnon, Chair of the North Smithfield Conservation Commission thanked the Commission and Edna for their assistance with helping to get the “mystery mounds” registered and stopping a developer from building on the site
II. West Greenwich Town Planner working on recording all historical cemeteries on Plat maps, and considering making the cemeteries a separate lot, having separate ownership for them, or including deeded access to them
III. Coventry is developing a Historical Cemetery Commission similar to the existing Warwick Historical Cemetery Commission
IV. Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War are working on a clean-up and fixing 90 stones at Intervale Cemetery North Providence.
V. Offer to assist by publishing article/photos regarding vandalism and needed clean-ups
VI. Representative from Rhode Island Historical Society Library brought a patron request for information on Potters Fields in RI – many attendees provided information
VII. Discussion regarding the work that the Friends of Smithfield Cemeteries is doing with cleaning up cemeteries, documentation of before and after photos, and logging GPS coordinates
VIII. Question from a Chepachet resident regarding a cemetery that abuts her backyard and impact on a property owner behind hers request to build an access road to his property through hers because his property is land locked and the access road would go right next to the cemetery.
IX. Blackstone Valley Tourism, as part of “Project Clean America” will provide loaner equipment and supplies to assist in cemetery cleanups
Next Meeting: September 26, 2007 6:30 pm at the Newport Public Library Meeting adjourned 7:55 pm
Respectfully Submitted by Emily Corbett
