Does Caroline County need a museum? New panel will look into the question

Date published: 7/28/2008

By COREY BYERS

A new committee in Caroline will be taking a look at the county's historical artifacts and the possibility for opening a public museum in the future.

The Board of Supervisors recently appointed five residents to the committee, one from each district in the county. Tourism Director Kathy Beard, the county's staff assistant for the committee, said the group will have its first meeting in August.

Beard said she doesn't have predetermined ideas for the panel, but they will "investigate the opportunities of a museum."

Board Chairman Floyd Thomas said last week that the main goal for the committee is to identify and inventory the historical assets and artifacts available. He said the group should also bring back ideas and concepts for what a museum could encompass.

"We believe there are many, many assets and artifacts in possession of private citizens," Thomas said.

He noted another resource, the prehistoric whale bones found in Carmel Church.

HISTORIC PRESERVATION PANEL BEING CONSIDERED

In a separate action last week, Planning and Community Development Director Michael Finchum presented information to officials on establishing a Historic Resources Advisory Board.

Finchum's written report said an ordinance is needed to form the preservation group, which would be advisory, not regulatory.

Supervisors did not take any action or discuss the proposal, but could take it up again next month.

According to the 2004 Comprehensive Plan, identifying and preserving sites of architectural, cultural and historical significance "can enhance the county's attraction to tourists and visitors, further boosting the local economy."

The plan also says that rehabilitating and preserving properties that may otherwise fall into disuse will allow them to remain functional and be an economic asset to Caroline.

Corey Byers: 540/735-1976
Email: cbyers@freelancestar.com

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Date published: 7/28/2008