Garrettsville – The September 21, 2015 meeting of the James A. Garfield Historical Society saw an influx of visitors from Freedom, seeking information on organizing and operating a historical society, with an eye to possibly establishing such a group for Freedom Township, either as a separate entity or as a semi-autonomous affiliate. This inquiry originated with the Freedom Room Mothers, ladies who had served to support activities of the Freedom School through the period when it operated as an elementary school feeding into the Garfield system and even before. The focus of preservation efforts is likely to be Freedom Station, Drakesburg, the Town Hall, individual histories and artifacts(Storage is always a problem in collecting anything). The discussion will continue; a meeting will be held in the Freedom Town Hall on October 13 at 7:30p.m. for more exploratory talks.
In response to questions, it was stated that the James A. Garfield Historical Society is, indeed, insured for loss and liability for the items in its collections, however, some items are irreplaceable and their loss can never be fully compensated. Cataloging of all items in the collections is ongoing, aided by the capabilities of computers and the new intern, Maya Watkins.
This same intern is helping in preparations for the society’s installation at the Garrettsville Chamber of Commerce Business Showcase on October 15 and a program at Garrett House coming up soon. She has also been reviewing the newly-digitized newspapers and attending a workshop at the Cleveland Public Library. Busy!
It was decided to purchase a projector for digital programs and presentations. Also decided was that future winners of the society’s scholarship will be invited to read their winning essay to the JAGHS. Thanks were extended to Gene Semplak for completing the work on the storm windows for the Mott Building. The Mystery of Our History Tour is still taking shape; it will focus this year on Garrettsville’s mayors and their wives. Individuals with information to contribute or a desire to participate are urged to contact any member.
