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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01302025 Historic Preservation Packet1963 1965 2005 kintual All-Amenca City 1 I I.. The City of Seward, Alaska HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA City Council Chambers, 410 Adams Street Please silence all cell phones and devices during the meeting Chair Tanguy Libbrecht Vice Chair Sue Ward Commissioner Mary Ann Benoit Commissioner Donna Walker Commissioner Art LeMaster Commissioner Laura Erickson Commissioner Todd Mashlan Museum Curator Allison Stacy City Clerk Kris Peck January 30, 2025, Immediately Following Work Session 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT (Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak. Time is limited to 3 minutes per speaker and 36 minutes total time for this agenda item.) 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA (Approval of Consent Agenda passes all routine items listed under Item 7. Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless a commission member requests. In the event of such a request, the item is returned to the Regular Agenda. Marked with *.) 6. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS, AND REPORTS A. Proclamations and Awards - Seward Local Register Plaque Awards B. Proclamation C. City Administration Report D. Chair Report E. Other Reports and Announcements 1) Report on Historic Preservation Facebook Page pg.3 F. Presentations 1)Presentation by City Clerk on City Website and E-Notifications 2)Presentation on City Manager Newsletter 7. CONSENT AGENDA A. Minutes of Preceding Meeting 1)* Approve November 14, 2024, HPC Meeting Minutes .pg.27 8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. Other Items Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Agenda January 30, 2025 1 1 P a g e 1) Hoben Park Updates . pg.31 2) Stucco Johnson Homesite Sign 3) Rotary Park Interpretation Sign 4) Booklet on Jan Van Empel Updates 5) St. Peter's Updates pg.32 9. NEW BUSINESS A. Other New Business 1) Nominate and Select Commission Chair pg.32 2) Nominate and Select Commission Vice -Chair 3) Nancy Drew and Mystery of the Half Moon Painting 4) 2025 CLG Grant Application Review 5) Seward Local Register Nomination Review pg.33 10. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No action required.) A. Reminder of Meetings 1) Regular Meeting and Work Session on April 10, 2025 pg.37 a. All material will need to be submitted Wednesday, March 19 B. Other Items 1) None 11. CITIZEN COMMENTS (There is no sign in for this comment period. Time is limited to five (5) minutes per speaker.) 12. COMMISSION AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS AND RESPONSES TO CITIZEN COMMENTS 13. ADJOURNMENT Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Agenda DATE 2 1 P a g e Facebook Page Report January 30, 2025 HPC Meeting Mary Ann Benoit Overview The data below reflects the statistics for our Facebook page from November 14 to January 15. We had about 3000 views, our page reach was up about 2% and we got 14 new followers, for a total of 1023. Interaction with our posts were down slightly. Our followers are consistently more women than men and they are all age ranges, generally over 25 years old. Most are from Seward and Anchorage. Generally, no big changes in our statistics since the last meeting. It seems our reach and interactions tend to be a little higher in the summer. Views 0 2.9K 800 600 400 200 0 Nov 14 Nov 24 Dec 4 Dec 14 Dec 24 Ian 3 Jan 13 Reach 0 852 11, 400 300 200 1.00 0 --� Nov 14 Nov 24 Dec 4 Dec 14 Dec 24 Jan 3 Jan 13 Follows • 14 T 16.7% 4 3 2 J 0 Nov 14 Nov 24 Dec 4 Dec J4 Dec 24 Jan 3 Jan 13 Audience Demographics Trends Potential audience Followers • Lifetime 1,023 Age & gender 0 20% 15% Top cities Anchorage, AK Seward, AK Bear Creek AK ■ 1.6% Kenai, AK ■ 1.4% Seattle, WA • 1% Soldotna, AK • 1% Wasil la, AK ■ 0.8% Fairbanks, AK 0.7% Jacksonville, FL 0.6% Palmer, AK 0.6% 16-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ Women El Men 64.4% 35.6% 19.6% Top countries United States 32.5% 99.7% Mexico 10.3% Thailand 10.3% France 10.2% India 10.2% 6angladesh 10.1% Bulgaria 10.1% Costa Rica 10.1% Norway 10.1% Ukraine I Q.1% The following posts will be scheduled through November 1, 2024. Any additions from commissioners? February PERFECT TIMING In the summer of 1941, as preparations for World War II were beginning, the military arrived and established Fort Raymond. In October 1940, the lot in front of you was sold by Leon Urbach to construction contractor Ray James for $500. The James Construction Company signed a contract to construct an apartment building by December 1941. It was perfect timing, as the November 23, 1941 fire destroyed at least 16 buildings on the east side of Fourth Avenue, including 56 apartments and 100 rooms. These new apartments came at a good time, when many had lost their home. After the fire, people joked that "when the Japanese fly over they won't bomb us because they will think we have already been bombed." Then, on December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was attacked, drawing our country into war. A January 6, 1942 letter by the National Resources Planning Board stated, "Seward is a pathetic spectacle. The town is staggering under the blows of the 1). The prospective change of the Alaska Railroad Terminus to Whittier, 2). The fire, 3). Quartering here of 3000 soldiers and 4). The war with its blackouts, evacuation orders and virtual taking over of the town by the military, etc." With war at hand, there was a shortage of building materials, with long lines for cigarettes, nylon stockings, liquor, and more. Even worse was the lamented shortage of women! "The Line" (Seward's infamous Red Light District) was just a short walk down the alley from this building. Although it got its start during hard times for Seward, this building still stands today and serves as a home for a wide range of locals and visitors. "° °' '`" ..�wn,,.,,�� ~ `` • ___.�.-w..,..— —_ °° ° ..., w,..° °n •.°, - . 35Third Avenue-.'=-,,.9.C4 Mkt Historic preservation preserves the historic, architectural, and aesthetic character and heritage of a community and helps to provide a sense of place and continuity. Brown and Hawkins is a great example. It makes a connection to the past as soon as you enter. Brown and Hawkins is the oldest continuously operated business in Seward! T.W. Hawkins came to Seward in 1903, went into partnership with Charles E. Brown and built what would become a general store, clothing store, and the Seward Gambling Hall (now Sweet Darling's). They provided provisions to pioneers throughout the territory and become the first bank, telegraph office and more! in Is\COCliw? 1[[S`I'Olil( - __ - "'L • ,t • ,1 ['li[:11ai\'.\'I70V:, `L i - x) ANU AESTHETIC OR AREAANO HELPS CONTINUITY * TO IT PRESERVES THE H-STORIC. ARCHITECTURAL, CHARACTER ANU HEPITAGE OF A COIAMUNITY PROVIDE A SENSE OF PLACE ANO x ; i U' E One of the sites on our historic walking tour is Jan van Empel's House, built in 1925. Van Emple, 1880-1940, was a famous Dutch/American artist from the early 20th century. He traveled to Seward in 1924. He lived here for two years while he painted his first sacred picture, "The Resurrection" for the back wall of Saint Peter's Episcopal Church. He used Seward residents and himself as models. This site currently does not have a sign, is listed on the Seward Historic Walking Tour. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. See his famous painting in St Peter's Church at https://vilda.alaska.edu/digital/collection/cdmg13/id/2796/rec/81. What is Historic Preservation? Historic preservation means safeguarding the existence and appearance of historic elements of the communil What is historic preservation and why should you care? Historic preservation is the practice of identifying, protecting, and conserving buildings, landmarks, and artifacts of historical importance. It involves recognizing and designating such places, implementing legal safeguards, conserving and restoring them, and often repurposing them for modern use. Historic preservation serves to safeguard cultural heritage, promote sustainable development, and educate the public about the value of preserving the past. March 2025 Do you know someone who has made substantial contributions towards historic preservation in the community of Seward? Please nominate them on this simple one -page form and honor them for their hard work in making our community better for all of us. You can find the form at: https://www.cityofseward.us/home/showpublisheddocument/3243. - u GET YOUR , -;. 1 N AW, %RD! -i 1. ..'A NOW Thank you for caring about our history! #Seward #Alaska #history #historicpreservation ti eifer✓a.v ornsolieeriort- by NOMINATIONS IN Seward's Day is a state holiday in Alaska celebrated on the last Monday in March (March 31). That commemorates the signing of the Alaska Purchase treaty on March 30th 1867. It is named after Secretary of State William H. Seward who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia for $7 million. Since Alaska is about one -fifth of the size of the rest of the it seems a pretty good deal, but he was criticized for wasting money and it was known as "Seward's Folly." The treaty was ratified on April 9th 1867 and the formal transfer of control took place on 18 October of that year. This formal transfer is which is now celebrated as another holiday, Alaska Day. . r.. 'z � �� MARCH J \ P .� SECRETARYBOF STATE, WILL ARYOF IAM ' ' li" • Or i 31, 2025 RNHS 1SEWARD NEW STORE OPENS.One ._._. Leon Urbach, recently of the Se - ward Commercial Company, opened his men's fufnishings and grocery store this morning, in the place form- erly occupied by S. L. Colwell's store, two doors below the Post office. Mr. Urbach has not yet received his full stock but decided on opening today as he stated he would do. Seward Gateway of the sites on our historic walking tour is Urbachs Clothiers, built in 1942. Urbach's has been in business since 1915. While a fire destroyed the original building in 1941, Leon wasted no time and rebuilt it in 1942. Leon was one of Alaska's unofficial leaders. He passed the business on to son, Larry, and his wife Dorothy. Dorothy continues the family tradition of leadership and in 2020 received an award from the mayor for her 30 years of leading the Friends of the Library and her many years of service to the Seward community 26 July 1915 p 6 fi rA ` On the Seward Historic Walking tour, at 1111 Second Avenue, you can see a sign. "Clues To Seward's Past", about Stucco Johnson's Historic Home Site in { ,1- ' , _':,:„ 1916. Look for the sign across the street from Rotary Park. This was the site of master craftsman Stucco Johnson's unique Spanish Mission Style cottage before it was moved by horses to 327 Fifth Avenue � ' :. around 1920. The house slipped through the ropes guiding it down the cliff '" ` < z: on moving day and slid down the hill on its side without developing a crack, cementing Stucco's reputation as a master craftsman. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. April MILLIONAIRE'S ROW M �� ,, ` Eugene (Gene) Hale was instrumental in the founding of Seward. Like the �•idoern��a } ; �. ; fir' _ ;,� ° others in Millionaire's Row, his house was built in 1905 for the prominent citizens in town. The Hale family was a visible feature of Seward's business, art scene, and social life. The family's patriarch, F.G. Hale, was the president .�._ _�_e .� a �., and a founder of the Bank of Seward and the Seward Chamber of Commerce. Mrs. Eugene Hale was the vice president of the Seward Ladies' Auxiliary. " 1 I! i , .._i - — "'" '"` '� , They formed committees on religion, arts and crafts, photography, geology, transportation, wildflowers and fruits, literature, needlework, and - ,e..,.e --- education. ------.-_ ".,. he Hale House . �' � (tm- � - F.G. Hale had three sons. Eugene (E.E) Hale worked at the Bank of Seward, Dr. C.L. Hale was a local dentist, and Fred M. Hale also worked at the Bank of Seward. Fred became active in the Seward Gun Club, the Volunteer Fire Department, the Seward Commercial Club, the local school board, and the Arctic Brotherhood. The Arctic Brotherhood was a fraternal organization organized in 1899 by Gold Rush stampeders. As a member of Seward Camp 21, Eugene was "keeper of the nuggets" in 1906. The Hales were hunting enthusiasts. One such hunt happened in 1911, where Eugene and his brother Fred competed with teams of other well- known local citizens. The Hale family's photo collection (F.G. Hale Collection housed at the Resurrection Bay Historical Society within the Seward Community Library and Museum) provides an insightful window into early Seward society life. __ iL Y_ k H - Historic preservation can provide an opportunity for the imaginative or creative use of a building that has stood empty because it outlived its previous use, and at the same time solve a community problem. For example, The Seward Depot was no longer used as a train station after the 1964 earthquake destroyed the tracks. It was later restored and has 1 ELM ni ' r 1 been used for several purposes since then, most recently serving as the site - —_ _ daii for several and restaurants. Photo ra her unknown. shopsPhotographer Why encourage historic preservation? It can be a good investment. Historic WIIT ENCOURAGE InsTom, PRI SBRVA NN _. __ buildings can be affordable for businesses to rehabilitate because of the possibility of tax incentives, grants, and other support for that activity. - ``. They attract business, simply because people are often fascinated by them. 4. J'''���^�''''''��� Setting up a business in a historic building is a great way to build a unique , j• '` 1, , ' ry`R 5^}jM.'P,•. ,.III .�. , 1, character for your business and attract customers. e. II M .�•w" 11 .,,' ,. =''- - X" ' For example, the Van Gilder Hotel's historic character, as well as it's ghost stories attracts business. . \:ui (.iIdo. MINI I IT CAN BE A GOOD INVESTMENT -., f11 "p \ ! 1 1c ry-,, Another site on the Seward Historic Walking tour is The Wayne Blue House, built in 1920, at 319 Third Ave. Wayne Blue purchased this lot in 1916. He was a manager at the Alaska Transfer Company, an agent for the Seward Water and Power Company, and a business manager for the Seward Gateway paper. This is currently the site of Alaska Coastal Properties, and we hope to get a walking tour sign for this property in the future. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. May 4 't - PRESERVATION MONTH CELEBRATES AND PROMOTES THE � HISTORIC SOCIAL AND PRESSSEERVVATTION.. ' ds'G ECONOMIC RV MAY IS ate i PLACES AND HERITAGE TOURISM, BENEFITS OF HISTORIC +/ Cava �2.""4 ' Historic Preservation Month, celebrated in May in the U.S., is dedicated to promoting historic places and cultural heritage. Initially started as National Preservation Week in 1973, it expanded to a month -long celebration in 2005. Organized by groups like the National Trust for Historic Preservation, events during the month include architectural tours, lectures, and festivals to raise awareness of the importance of preserving historical sites and artifacts / 5ewaf c historical Tour Walking i May is Historic Preservation Month! What better time to learn about Seward's history by listening to this video on the Historic Walking Tour, and then getting out in our nice (fingers crossed) weather for a walk to check out the signs. See the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD9aUOGRT9M. Pick up a map at the library, or better yet, download one to your phone from the decal on the library door or on the Historic Preservation webpage. Tlie 5ewarJ hiatoric rr.5ervation Commission THe [it,, oR5cward Fundedby tke,jasica State historic rceservation Office 41) ONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY, SHARING OUR STORIES-- ::''''''-= Seward is located within the ancestral homelands of the indigenous Sugpiaq people (also referred to by the Russian -derived term "Alutiiq"). The area was colonized by Russian explorers who in 1792 built a fort and shipyard at Resurrection Bay. The Russians abandoned the fort in the 1840s as the fur trade declined. Between 1883-1884, Franklin G. (Frank) Lowell and his wife Mary Forgal Lowell settled in the Seward area. Mary, born of an Alaska Native mother and Russian father, was raised in English Bay. Frank, who came from Maine, was a fur trader and entrepreneur. Frank and Mary established a trade station in Resurrection Bay, but by 1892 the fur trade had declined and Frank left to lead a different station on the Alaska Peninsula. Mary stayed at her Resurrection Bay homestead, hunting, fishing, and gardening with six of her children in what would become the southern section of the Seward townsite. In 1903, Seattle developer John Ballaine and a group of settlers landed in Seward with the hope of building a railroad that would open up Interior Alaska to ships from the lower 48. In 1903, Mary Lowell relinquished her rights to her homestead claims to Frank Ballaine for $4,000 and 37 city lots, and the community of Seward began to take shape. _�- t, __ ° .. - _:.z "T"' :-:; it �._. ,� �� . e,,, ,,,,;,- — —�— 1 .+yj;' ===; _„ -. m. a • ur Community Library & Museum < . 4 r As the gateway city for construction of the Alaska Central Railway (which would become the Alaska Railroad), Seward saw a rapid influx of people. Seward churches, businesses, and the local paper participated in a "circulating library." This community library effort was formalized and incorporated in 1930 as the Seward Community Library Association (SCLA), which was run by volunteers. As the library grew, it moved in 1938 and 1962. Through great community support, the library found a home in 1968 in a former grocery store on the corner of Adams and 5th Avenue. Funded in large part by Viola and Elwyn Swetman, a children's wing was constructed in 1968. In 1988 the library became a city department. The Seward Museum opened in 1966 with objects, documents, and photos collected by the Resurrection Bay Historical Society (RBHS), and was run by volunteers. Originally located in the basement of City Hall, it was moved 1989 into the remodeled former Post Office at 3rd Avenue and Jefferson. Volunteers maintained the Museum until a new library and museum facility was proposed to celebrate Seward's centennial in 2003. A combined facility for Seward's museum and library was brought to life through a joint project with the Resurrection Bay Historical Society, the Seward Library Association, Seward citizens, and the City of Seward. The Seward Community Library & Museum opened in January of 2013, celebrating ten years of community effort. It continues to collect our stories and connect our community. We hope you that you will visit our Library & Museum, and enjoy this Seward Historic Walking Tour throughout our city. -_ - -- - . " �+ t r-, 4 ^ ,' ' :. .,., ‘}i l � I _ r - .ham . k!1� �(. . b __ ' " ... =II. - . - . IT PRESERVES OLD METHODS OF WORKMANSHIP Historic preservation preserves old methods of workmanship. Many modern buildings are built to last a short time - 25 to 30 years. Workmanship and building methods are often not as careful or durable as methods used in the past, when buildings were expected to last indefinitely. By working on historic buildings, new generations of craftsmen learn the techniques to improve modern buildings as well. q p g Seward has many stucco buildings still standing by locally renowned craftsman Gerhard "Stucco" Johnson. The Swetmann house, considered a jewel of Seward architecture, slid down and hill, tipped over and survived in one piece. It was built as his residence in 1916. He was famous for his beautiful and long-lasting exterior stucco work during the early 1920s and beautiful 1930s. His stucco is beautiful and has preserved the wood underneath for many of our historic structures. Photographer unknown. June THE CLASSIEST STRUCTURE ONTHE STREET This building was created by a lady for the ladies, and upon its completion, was declared "the classiest structure on the street." Mrs. Jessie Ellsworth was industrious. In 1916, she had Architect C.W. Winstead design and construct her new cement building to become Ellsworth's millinery shop and sell women's clothing and accessories. To keep the ladies happy, this was a necessary service in a pioneer country. The Ellsworths were not all work and no play; they were a musical family. Mr. Ellsworth worked as a chemical assayer, and in 1916 was the town bandmaster while Mrs. Ellsworth sang in the quartet and played the piano. In May of 1920, she and a group of Seward musicians performed in Anchorage to "a large and appreciative audience" and received a favorable review by the Anchorage Daily Times. In 1927, Ellsworth's was sold to the first in a series of owners who continued the tradition of keeping the ladies happy by selling women's clothing, accessories, and fabrics. After 1937, Carl Orlander opened Orlander's in the old Ellsworth's building to sell fine jewelry for women and men. Orlander was a kind man and a loyal KK - Orlander Building ;:; r 4 's , a ' ... - ,. I 1 41* Mi®il -,.. l ...,�~°~- •W-• `f JR- 'r w,w II=----- «: � �� ,�E~�.w. ' T.,— `` � 7,--7.=-7-- = friend. After the 1964 earthquake, with his valuable jewelry exposed through broken storefront windows, his only concern was caring for the safety of those around him. A friend recalls that when he entered his shop with another friend, Bill Miller, he picked up a watch from the broken glass on the floor and gave it to Bill, telling him that it made him feel useful, not like an old man of no value. At that moment, the building was no longer the classiest structure on the street. But Carl Orlander certainly showed others what genuine kindness and class were all about. "' k.. ;:::,- `4. `_----- T. Aattorney, I _. 1 VIM" \, kT .. Another site on the Seward Historic Walking Tour is the L.V. Ray Building at 500 Adams Street, built in 1916. Built by the Harriman Bank of New York, it served as a bank until 1922, then as the local high school from 1925-28. L.V. Ray, a prominent pioneer bought the building or his home and office and lived there until his death in 1946. His wife, Hazel, converted it into apartments. https://vilda.alaska.edu/digital/collection/cdmg2l/id/21497/rec/6 1 _. "- .x, Alaska State Library -Historical Collections Owners of historic properties, here's why you should care about preservation: It honors our cultural heritage. Boosts property values and tourism. Saves the environment. Adds unique charm. Offers tax incentives. Strengthens community identity. Provides education and pride. Protects against unsuitable development. Drives economic growth. Legal obligations may apply. Preserve the past for a brighter future! ul #HistoricPreservation #CommunityPride WHO SHOULD ENCOURAGE HISTORIC PRESERVATION? ti64vI9RRvATio .` +� of sk 'vg a t °spsrt" • ,,. 1 '.' A.,, Q I 11 OWNERS OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES One of the sites on the Historic Walking Tour is the International Order of Odd Fellows Hall, built in 1918, at 504 Adams Street. The IOOF hall was completed and opened to the public with a dance and basket social in 1918. It was one of the favorite dancing and grand ball locations in Seward through the 1940s, and served as a community center for many years. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. raw ` 11111 i.o.o.F r, imull _ 1, _. -`--- i r I rf 1 i` 4i - '1I 1 1 ,� July cauoFTHeMouNTaiN = Mount Marathon Race """ There are many tales of races on Mount Marathon before the first official ra what Alaskan stories are made of. Native Alaskans may have conquered this Russians, the early residents such as the Lowells, or later characters like Al P the arrival time of the steamers. Many have run and won this great foot raci learned it would be the terminus for the Alaska Railroad. Locals celebrated t dances, and the first formal race on Marathon Mountain. Runners in that ra Daykin. Walters came in first with a time of one hour and two minutes and v third, winning $5.00. Seward businesses donated prize money with the hope become a favorite place for Alaskans to celebrate the nation's holiday. Alex and 12 seconds. His record stood until 1928, when a young boy named Ephr Ephraim was a resident of the Jesse Lee Home and was just 14 when he wor record stood unbroken until 1957. Ralph Hatch of Seward was a six -time wir conquered this "hill" long before the first official race in 1915. It calls to you mountain's dare, including warrior women and kids like the Jesse Lee boys. fun. Even families have made a day of it, as well as solo hikers just looking fc races in America and is still going strong today. -- ;.- --r =- �-' ; - — VA r-:'~ : 4> .•�f: s ��' ' \. This little cottage at 338 Fifth Avenue is one of the sites on the Historic Walking Tour. It was built in 1930. This 405 square foot cottage was a typical size for many homes in the 1930s. Its two neighbors to the south are also similar. We don't have much history on this one yet but have heard these houses were used to house military officers at one time. If you have any history information on this one, we would love to hear it. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. ' . One of the sites on our Historic Walking Tour is the huge, beautiful open - grown Sitka Spruce tree at 212 Fifth Avenue. Likely over 70 years old, it is the most outstanding tree in Seward for its history, exemplary shape, beauty, and size. Note the sidewalk curves around it. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. - • Heritage tourism is a branch of tourism focused on the cultural heritage of the location where tourism is occurring. Cultural tourists spend 60% more, stay longer and take more trips. How might that benefit your business? Heritage tourism, involves travelers visiting places of historical, cultural, or natural significance. It offers several advantages to a town, including economic benefits, preservation of cultural heritage, increased awareness and education, community development, cultural exchange, support for local artisans, sustainable tourism, improved infrastructure, revitalization of historic areas, and the promotion of cultural identity. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. lleritagc Tourism %= - a. 711100'-''Vin. E°E'°R^E T°Lhls'° SPEND MURE ,I4Y LONG, f.^° MORE TRIPS. HOW MIGHT THAT 9ENEFIT YOUR E . . ^t?S' ,.,^E August MILLIONAIRE'S Holland ROW .. 4....... -,-„, " i TrL .01 p i1 v�•-"""^ ,. From Seward's earliest days, Millionaire's Row (built between 1904 and 1906) stump -strewn, muddy streets and board sidewalks. These homes embodied a This beautiful row of houses is on the west side of the Seward Highway (Third Many locals believed Seward would become the New York of the Pacific, Alask fetched today, as it also did then to more skeptical visitors and business invest The Holland House belonged to Murray B. Holland, the general storekeeper fo Winter's house and J.B. Cameron's. That summer, the clang of pounding nail These interior photos showing the Holland House represent what must have b because it is challenging to find interior pictures of Seward homes from that e The Holland House was placed on the Seward Historic Register in 1999. Jot, rr.0 �y R9f j� ,..,� .-'_ , a House d FOUNDERSDAY! AUGUST 28, 1903 eg=- �- Founders Day! Save the Date! August 28. Note Founders Day community events. LET'S CELEBRATE OUR HISTORY 1 t r � i. 1' 125 Third Avenue was once the Mary Lowell Homestead, The Line, and Alaska Transfer Company. This corner, which is part of the Historic Walking Tour, was once a bustling center of activity. It originally was the site of the Mary Lowell homestead. Frank Ballaine had a house built for her here. Later the house was the home of Lydia and Al Peel and known as the Peel House. He was a manager of the Alaska Transfer Company, located where the parking lot is now. His wife was associated with Seward's notorious red-light district known as The Line, where the line of cottonwoods now stands. Behind the cottonwoods there once were 21 little houses owned and operated by local businesswomen. The Line closed down in the mid-1950s. Photo by Mary Ann Benoit. • ....= e 4 See the beautiful old 1943 Norway Maple at 420 Third Ave, one of the sites on the Historic Walking Tour. Mrs. Amend bought this beautiful tree through the Sears catalog in the late 1930s and planted it as a sapling. It may be the largest Norway Maple tree in Alaska. Photo by Carol Griswold. September Historic preservation adds character and charm to a community and emphasizes its uniqueness. Our old buildings make Seward unique, and give Seward a lot of character and charm that attracts tourists and attracted many of us to move here. Businesses in our old buildings, such as Zudy's and Primrose Provisions in the old train station, oftenprovide a unique experience p that attract locals and visitors alike. WHY ENCOURAGE I '` IT CAN COMMUNITY. HISTORIC PRESERVATION? b u u `I l l l l �liq ram. TO A l n.. 1 I:ainmunlry I ihrary Axoinlion ADD CHARACTER AND/OR CHARM AND EMPHASIZE ITS UNIQUENESS. If Walls Could Talk- The Malloy House- 313 Sixth Ave Named for its original owner, Bessie M. Malloy, this house had a previous life on a hill above Second Avenue. After avalanches buried some of the neighboring houses, Malloy purchased this lot for $250 and moved the house here. This house has seen a lot, including an influx of more than 3,200 soldiers in Seward during World War II, Alaska statehood in 1959, and the most exciting of all: the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake. During the earthquake, the Anderson family (who lived in the house at the time) had to run for their lives, leaving the front door wide open as the Standard Oil tanks a block away exploded and the earth shook. In 1970, the National Research Council described the devastation of that day by saying, "probably nowhere in south central Alaska on March 27, 1964, were there more hairbreadth escapes than among the 2,300 inhabitants of the seaport town of Seward...". Owner Susie Anderson White was 9 years old when she wrote, "All of a sudden everything broke loose, and we were shaking real bad. I started to scream, and my sister Sharon told me I didn't stop screaming. We saw a huge explosion. It was the Standard Oil tanks going up in flames. When we went past the boat harbor, we could see boats being lifted up by the tidal wave." Her father, Val Anderson, wrote, "We spent the night listening to the Standard Oil tanks exploding, the tidal waves coming in and watching the great red glare of the fire lighting the skies and mountainsides. We didn't think there was a chance in the world our house could survive." But the house did survive and kept adapting to changing times. Today Seward depends more on tourism, and this house offers nightly lodging to these travelers. It hears their stories, and now they hear its story. WHY ENCOURAGE HISTORIC PRESERVATION?It can add character and/or charm to a community, and emphasize its -, 4,. +`<<° a,1L 1 .-- uniqueness. The preservation of old buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes can determine the look of a community, and may be an attraction for tourists as well. If these elements are historically significant or unusual, they can also be a source of community pride, and lead to other improvements. sin nmvniryLiLnrylLBealanon IT CAN ADD CHARACTER AND/OR CHARM TO A COMMUNITY, AND EMPHASIZE ITS UNIQUENESS. Historic preservation includes four possible activities: How Can You Preserve History? Preservation is preserving a place as it is in the present *i Rehabilitation fixes up a deteriorated historic property, often for a use other than its original one i! Restoration means putting a building or landscape back the way it was originally, or at a historically significant time in its past ` . ` ' ti : ,^ Reconstruction is the creation of a historically accurate copy of either a specific historic property that no longer exists or an example of one from a chosen historical period. 115 Axhe4,11wnm N11W176M LWnry6MWnw Preservation, Rehabilitation. Restoration. Reconstruction October �re.._..• AN ADVENTUROUS, CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHER This building, constructed in 1916, and known as the Generations Building, is often referred to as the Sexton House. Sylvia Sexton was a dynamic, creative, and adventurous woman who embodied the pioneer spirit. One of the most popular young businesswomen of Seward and a prominent Alaskan photographer, her beautiful images capture the essence of the daily life of her friends, family, and the outdoor activities she enjoyed. She was well known, loved, and active in the community. Sylvia moved to Seward in 1904 from Sunrise when her father, George Sexton, was transferred to be Seward's first deputy U.S. Marshal. She brought her passion for photography with her to Seward. Sylvia moved freely around the town and captured Seward's daily life in pictures during this pioneering time. =:� .. I. , ., , , _ r•Alaskan == _.o.____.. = ' s pays °M;bAa Genera,"`111 _ M .. t`, rl The Sexton House �:3',• Sylvia Sexton liked to get out in the field to get her beautiful photos of Alaska that give us a glimpse into our history today. She looks like she is having fun! This photo is available through the Seward Community Library Association. SCLA-1-584. ,,, . �" _ ,,. ' F '7 r1 ))) 4 lip kF � .. I t Sylvia Sexton in a field with two men and her camera bag. SmxirJ t: ommunirc I.iMary Association, Spkia SeR[nn C of le vun. St:I.A tea. Here is a photo of Sylvia Sexton out on one of her photo excursions. Notice the outfit, camera gear, and what I imagine as her no-nonsense, "Come on, let's go, I have pictures to take" look2 . 7+. S -. x Sylvia Sexton on a photo excursion. Seward Community Library Association,Sylvia &x[on Colltttian, SCLA 1-55L e-Warol tic- The Seward Historic Preservation Commission is a group pf dedicated volunteers from our commumity that care about our history and historic buildings and sites. Membership on the Commission is open to citizens of The City of Seward and surrounding areas. Contact the City Clerk's Office to inquire about applying for this commission. We meet quarterly on the second Thursday of each month, except for July when they are on hiatus, the commission meets at 6:00 p.m. with a work session followed by a regular meeting. Stop by and listen or watch us on YouTube. Learn more. �. . a i 9 I'=6 `- 81se, 5!.i.7 !nr,rdtr rlatlinr!!xus. 2017 SI WC lala px..; City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes September 12, 2024 Volume 3, Page CALL TO ORDER The November 14, 2024 meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order at 6:57 p.m. by Chair Tanguy Libbrecht. OPENING CEREMONY Commissioner Art LeMaster led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. ROLL CALL There were present: Tanguy Libbrecht, presiding, and Sue Ward Dona Walker Laura Erickson Mary Ann Benoit Art LeMaster Todd Mashlan comprising a quorum of the Commission; and Allison Stacy, Museum Curator Ashleigh Lipsey, Executive Assistant to the City Manager Kris Peck, City Clerk Excused — None Absent — None Vacant — None CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT — None APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Motion (Ward/Benoit) Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed Unanimous The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items: The September 12, 2024 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes September 12, 2024 Volume 3, Page SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS, AND REPORTS City Administration Report Museum Curator Allison Stacy explained the new rolling deadline for the Historic Preservation Award had been updated and was now posted on the city website. Stacy noted she had been very busy lately as Acting Library Director. Chair Report Chair Tanguy Libbrecht said the work session tonight had been very productive. The Historic Preservation meeting dates had been selected for 2025: January 30, April 10, September 18, and November 13. Libbrecht noted St. Peters Episcopal Church would be a recurring agenda item. Libbrecht also spoke about CLG grants, Hoben Park, and raising awareness of historic preservation. Other Reports and Announcements Historic Preservation Facebook Page Report Benoit said there were no big changes since the last meeting. There was a bit more activity in the summertime. There were 6 new followers for a total of 1,012 followers. She was looking for ideas for additional posts and content. Presentations - None UNFINISHED BUSINESS - None NEW BUSINESS Resolutions - None Other New Business Hoben Park Updates Benoit said she had talked with the Parks & Recreation Department about purchasing lilacs. There was also discussion about planting tulips. Benoit wanted to come up with a list of flowers that had been planted in the past. Benoit also provided an update on a historic fence that Parks & Recreation was going to restore. The fence was a small decorative metal fencing with vertical and horizontal struts. Stucco Johnson Homesite Sign Benoit had worked with local enthusiasts Carol Griswold and Colleen Kelly on updating the sign. City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes September 12, 2024 Volume 3, Page Seward Plaque Updates Libbrecht said he was planning to present the plaques to the recipients in January. The idea was to invite the recipients to an Historic Preservation meeting to receive the award in council chambers. St. Peter's Episcopal Church Discussions Mashlan described the artwork above the altar. He wanted to feature the new research and information from local historian Doug Capra. The copyright would be transferred so St Peter's Church could re -print as needed. They were looking into a self -publishing company and Mashlan hoped the first run would be around $1,000 for 100 books. Booklet on Jan Van Empel No comment. Preservation Plan Work Session Updates & Approval No comment. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS HPC Regular Meeting and Work Session 2024 Schedule Wrap Up Other Items City Administration will work on 2024 HPC Report for January 2025 meeting. CITIZEN COMMENTS -None COMMISSION AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS & RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS Erickson was pleased to see the full commission and thanked everyone for the collaboration Walker recalled a unique half-moon painting that was stored in a basement downtown. She hoped the artwork could be found and rescued. Ward thanked both Benoit and Mashlan for all the work they were doing. She was excited about taking the time to work St. Peter's Church. Seward was at risk of losing an iconic building. Libbrecht thanked city administration and the commissioners. It was great to have a full commission. He thanked the museum curator for the great meeting packets. Libbrecht asked about the CLG grant that was due in February. Regarding the application for more walking tour signs, he noted there were a lot of competing projects. It would become an ongoing discussion to go through the entire process. City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes September 12, 2024 Volume 3, Page Benoit said the walking tour signs would be easier this time around since they were something that had already been developed. She thanked Mashlan for his work and dedication to St. Peter's Church. She felt that steps were being taken to make things happen. LeMaster was encouraged by the efforts to restore St. Peter's Church. There needed to be people in the building using it. Mashlan said the Episcopal Diocese of Alaska had taken action that would help streamline local efforts for the church. Libbrecht thanked Stacy for her efforts as Museum Curator and Acting Library Director. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m. Kris Peck City Clerk (City Seal) Tanguy Libbrecht Chair HPC Meeting—1-30-25 Ongoing and New Business M. Benoit Hoben Park Updates Melanie Hauze has brought the Hoben Park fencing into their shop to begin efforts to repair it (straighten, sand, paint) to prepare for putting it up this year. Tanguy has suggested we consider applying for a grant for the sanding and painting and to re-create any pieces that may be missing. I began reviewing old photos to see where the fencing originally was located. The area needs to be measured and compared to the footage of the existing fencing to see if all the pieces are present. Collaborative Project -Stucco Johnson Homesite Sign A draft sign design was completed and reviewed by Colleen at RBHS, Carol Griswold and Melanie Hauze. A few minor edits were suggested, and these were sent into Corvus designs. The final proofs are being created and I will share when they are done. Collaborative Project -Rotary Park Interpretive Sign Sign design for the sign to be placed at the end of the boardwalk on Third Ave with a summary of the Rotary Park project is underway. The interactive whale art, which will direct attention to our joint project, received a grant extension and will be installed in May so the weather will be better for a public unveiling ceremony in late May or early June. Booklet on Jan van Empel The church has agreed to pay for the publishing costs for the booklet. The book narrative work by Doug Capra and the editing and title designs by Mary Ann Benoit will begin in March/April. • St. Peter's Updates (Mashlan & Stacy) o Gathering quotes for a HABS report on St. Peter's o Alaska Remote Imaging is interested in scanning & producing 3D Models for Historic Preservation Buildings in Seward • Seward Local Register Plaque Awards (Libbrecht) • Chair & Vice -Chair Nominations (Clerk) • Nancy Drew and Mystery of the Half Moon Painting (Clerk) • 2025 CLG Grant Application Review (Libbrecht) Docusign Envelope ID: E530B739-9781-4E23-8891-AF2BF3E1AAB5 CITY OF SEWARD LOCAL HISTORIC REGISTER APPLICATION FORMAT ** Prior to completing this form please review the Seward Historic Register eligibility criteria 1. Name of Property historic name Thorn's Showcase Lounge other names/site number Flamingo Lounge 2. Location street &number 208 4th Avenue, Seward, AK, 99664 legal description T 1S R 1W SEC 10 SEWARD MERIDIAN SW 0000001 ORIGINAL TOWNSITE OF SEWARD LOT g p 21 & 25 BLK 9 Kenai Peninsula Borough tax parcel number 14911003 3. Owner of Property name Seward Showcase Suites LLC (Matt cope and KellyAnn Cavaretta address 1809 Jesse Lee Drive (Po Box 233) city Seward state AK zip 99664 telephone 7606854935 4. Category of Property x building(s) district site structure object 5. Description (Describe the historic and current condition of the property on one or more continuation sheets.) Docusign Envelope ID: E530B739-9781-4E23-8891-AF2BF3E1AAB5 6. Significance Applicable Seward Historic Register Criteria (Mark "x" in one or more boxes for the criteria qualifying the property for the Seward Historic Register) x A. Property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to our history. B. Property is associated with the lives of persons significant in the past. C. Construction/architecture... D. Property has yielded, or is likely to yield information important in Seward's prehistory or history. Criteria Considerations (Mark "x" in all the boxes that apply) A. owned by a religious institution or used for religious purposes B. removed from its original location C. a birthplace or a grave D. a cemetery E. a reconstructed building, object, or structure x F. a commemorative property G. less than 50 years of age or achieved significance within the past 50 years Significant Dates Significant Person Cultural Affiliation Architect/Builder Narrative Statement of Significance (Explain the historical significance of the property on one or more continuation sheets). Docusign Envelope ID: E530B739-9781-4E23-8891-AF2BF3E1AAB5 7. Title History of Property 8. If approved may the property be placed on the Historic Walking Tour? X yes no 9 . Major Bibliographical References (Cite the books, articles, and other sources used in preparing this form on one or more continuation sheets.) 10. Form Prepared By name/title Matthew Cope organization date Owner - Flamingo Lounge 12/14/2024 address 1809 Jesse Lee Drive seward city 11. Photographs (attach one color photograph of the property at the time of application and if available one black & white photograph identifying the property to be at least 50 years old) Question #5: We believe the Thorn's building holds historical significance in the city's cultural and social scene, dating back to 1952. Although a fire in 1971 destroyed the original interior, to this day the 1970s interior is mostly upheld. With its red padded seating, string lighting and erstwhile decor, the interior is like a trip back in time with its dimly lit retro vibe delightfully filled with the community's character,.We recently refurbished the original bubble lettering on the building, originally installed in 1972, but it is best known for the hundreds of Jim Beam whiskey decanters adorning the wall-to-wall showcases represent only part of a larger collection by Gene Thorn. His massive collection encompasses several decades worth of the specialty bottles, that we as the new owners have organized and preserved for history. Question #7: The lounge is tied to another place, Gil's Lounge, which was established in 1946 or 1947 in the Palace Cafe Building by Harley "Hal" Otto Gilfilen (1903-1989) and his wife Clara or Clair. A few years later in 1950, Gil's Lounge relocated to 208 Fourth Avenue. The Gilfilens operated Gil's Lounge until 1961, until it became Thorn's Showcase Lounge. Thorn's is listed in A Guide to the Notorious Bars of Alaska by Doug Vandergraft. In March of 1952, Louis Eugene "Gene" Thorn arrived in Seward and shortly thereafter started employment as a bartender. He was professionally associated with several notorious bars including Palace (1904-1917, 1933-1985) at 133 Fourth Avenue in 1962; Solly's (1956-1980) at 406 Washington Street in 1966; and Gil's Lounge in 1967. In 1960, Thorn met and married a nurse who had moved to Seward from New York in 1959, Patricia "Pat" Ann Clancy Thorn (1937-2017). The Flamingo , also a historical establishment in Seward, opened in February 1953. The papers called it a "beautifully appointed, completely modern establishment" with coral hues and mahogany paneling. "Ultra modern is the only word to describe the new cocktail bar, Flamingo." It had huge upholstered chairs in flamingo red. Originally established in the side street of the Liberty Theater, patrons would not know of its existence except for the neon lighted flamingo on the street corner. The Flamingo, over the course of its 30 year original existence, transformed into an establishment with survived by scandalous gossip and stories full of history. Bibliography: Thorn's is listed in A Guide to the Notorious Bars of Alaska by Doug Vandergraft. Resurrection Bay Historical Society 1 2025 Historic Preservation Commission Priorities and Meeting Schedule Updated on 1/21/2025 DATES WS-MTG Business Priorities Results Jan. 15 HPC MATERIAL DEADLINE: Turnover to Admin. Jan. 30 WS - Discuss properties for Seward Local Register Nomination: Flamingo Lounge - Review of CLG Grant Application to SHPO: Hoben Park - Enhance and educate on Historic Preservation (FB Posts and Potential Events). MTG Facebook Page Report; Approve November Meeting Minutes; Share Historic Register Plaque Awards; Nominate Chair & Vice Chair; St. Peter's Updates; Painting Discussion; Hoben Park Updates; Stucco Johnson Sign; Rotary Park Interp Sign; Booklet on Jan Van Empel -Submit CLG Application - Admin to begin 2024 CLG Report - Upload new Social Posts and Engagement via Facebook Mar. 19 HPC MATERIAL DEADLINE: Turnover to Admin. Apr. 10 WS - Discuss plan for Historic Preservation Month. - Draft Plan for Historic Preservation Month; City Admin send Commission Annual Report & publish to Website MTG - Approve January 2024 Minutes - Approve National HP Month Activities - Discuss Updates on St. Peter's - Updates on CLG Grant Application SUMMER No Work Session or Meeting Hiatus Sept. 3 HPC MATERIAL DEADLINE: Turnover to Admin. Sept. 18 WS - Training/Workshop Activity -Schedule Workshop - Potential Visit from SHPO Office MTG - Approve April Minutes - St. Peter's Updates - Ongoing Grant Projects Updates (CLG or Peter's) - Submit NR Application Oct. 29 HPC MATERIAL DEADLINE: Turnover to Admin. Nov. 13 WS - Draft 2026 HPC Priorities and Meetings MTG -Approve September Minutes - Begin Discussions on 2026 Projects - Work on Annual Report