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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05112023 Historic Preservation Meeting Packet Seward Historic Preservation Commission Regular Meeting ALL�d1 T1 r S � e x� � a . A A May 11, 2023 Regular Meeting City Council Chambers Beginning at 6 00 pm 1 The City of Seward,Alaska HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING AGENDA May 12, 2023 Immediately Following Work Session Council Chambers Tanguy 1. CALL TO ORDER Libbrecht Chair 2. PLEDGE OFALLEGIANCE Term Expires May,2023 3. ROLL CALL Sue Ward Vice Chair 4. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE Term Expires May,2023 ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING[Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak. Time is limited to 3 minutes per speaker Laura Edison and 36 minutes total time for this agenda item.] Commissioner Term Expires May,2023 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA[Approval of Mary Ann Benoit Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated by asterisk (*). Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless a commission member so requests. In the Commissioner event ofsuch a request, the item is returned to the Regular Agenda] Term Expires May,2024 Dona Walker 6. SPECIAL ORDERS,PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Commissioner Term Expires May,2024 A. City Administration Report Art LeMaster B. Chair Report Commissioner Term Expires May,2023 C. Other Reports and Announcements [Reports must be submitted to the city clerk no later than noon on the Tuesday preceding the Monday meeting Vacant for inclusion in the packet. Five(5)minutes speaking time will be allowed for Commissioner each report.] Term Expires May,2024 1. Report on Historic Preservation Facebook Page. pg 3 Stephen Sowell Assistant City Manager Bailey Sayler Library Museum Director Brenda Ballou City Clerk 2 7. NEW BUSINESS A. Resolutions 1. Resolution 2023-002, A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION, RECOMMENDING THAT THE 2023 SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARDS BE BESTOWED TO TIFFANY AND AL SILLER .............................................................................................................. Pg. 20 B. Other New Business Items 1. Approve the January 12, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes. Pg. 25 2. Carry out planned National HP Month activities; Review and Vote on Recipients, HP Award presented by council Pg. 30 3. Discuss Founder's Day activities. 4.Update Historic Guidelines. 5. Report to Council 6. Support Hoben Park/Flowers 7. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS [No Action Required] 8. CITIZEN COMMENTS 9. COMMISSION AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS &RESPONSES TO CITIZEN COMMENTS 10. ADJOURNMENT 3 Facebook Page Report May 112023 HPC Meeting Mary Ann Benoit Overview The data below reflects Facebook activity for three months from January 26 to April 25. We put out 12 posts related to the historic walking tour signs and the benefits of historic preservation.This was up 20%from the previous period.The reach was 1442 people which was down about 24%,but engagement was up about 10%since the previous 90 days.So our audience,even if there are less people being reached are more interested and engaged in our content.Our post reactions,comments and shares were about the same as the previous period. Our audience is primarily women(63%)and people from Seward,although we have people checking our page from a variety of communities in Alaska,especially Anchorage. Our audience includes people of all age groups,but mainly people 35-44. Our most popular posts were related to our walking tour signs,Brown and Hawkins and how historic preservation adds character to a town.The Manthey House sign post has also had a lot of engagement. a Ruch Sr#rrrx�ataa.'S Ar cc•-hpr:p+•'fprr rxe .,�ecw�.rror +5d7D A i 2L77 'A f{y�' k 1Y.it :a4 10 4o K MA,2 LAM 12 n Arl 1 Ape 11 iye 21 way■to krlp draw yvwr rsa,e.M Plom fmclurlrtly and carwitantly Impran Ona`arewrrt far yaar carrtard Try raschlmS nwo poaplo with an ad 0 post-•;: D Fa ebook Pair Ga rd rrat h 4-� 12 O.,., s 0 C', B r imlan past Traci,on!,.cornments an d 0 V VLA I ft 71 a 1Pe 5 Recent content 4. Type Reach O it Likesandreact... O tl Stickerta... O tl Replies O tl Linkclicks O tl Comments O it Share Historic buildings can be affordabl.., Boost unavailable 116 8 — -- -- C Mop Past Historic preservation can provide a... Boost unavailable 141 13 __ _. _. 0 Tue 4p,11.11.00— Past Brown&Hawkins is the oldest mn... 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Boost unavailable B4 0 — -- -- 0 ue Feb 14.11.M— Past 6 Engagement Post reactions,comments and shares 0 Median post reactions,comments and shares per media type 0 Median post reactions,commentsand shares percontent O �`,�1 F,pcs created in the last 90 days format 164 y 3.5% For postscreated in the1ast90 days magas Total From last 90 days vs 90 days prior 11 Other posts Vice- 0 Live posts 150 I 0 Audio 0 Reels 100 _ _ Text I 0 p Album posts Ip 50 Links 0 360'videc posts Ia 0 90 days prior Last 90 days 360'image posts Ip Top-performing organic poets Here are posts that have performed well over the last 90 days,Understanding what's working can help you decide what to create and share next so you can keep up the great work Highest reach on a post 0 Highest reactions on a post 0 Highest comments on a post0 %&aa ()Facebook post ()Fa bo k Post ()Facebook post lk Brown &Hawkins is the oldest continuously operated 0.1 8raw &Hawkins the oldest cunt nuously operated ovationsRen often uncover clues about a house's history. 4�« b in Seward T W,Hawkins came to Seward in business in Seward.T.W.Hawkins came to Seward in... This propertywas originally owned by Frank Balla ne,a... Apr4,2023,11:00 AM Apr 4,2023,11:00 AM Feld 7,2023,11:00 AM This post reached 38696 more Accounts Center accounts(855 Accounts This past received 280%more reactions(38 reactions)than your median This post received 6 comments compared to your median post(0 Center accounts)than your median post(176 Accounts Center accounts) post(10 reactions)on Facebook. comments)on Facebook, on Facebook. AudienceO ® See audience report Facebook Page followers 0 647 Age&gender Q 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 55+ Women 0 Men 627% 37.3% ti Reach out to new people The more people who fallow your Page,the easier it is for others to discover your brand.Send invites to people who reacted to your Facebook posts to follow your Page,Learn mc"e Send invites See the planned posts for May through the rest of the year through December. The focus is on history of Seward as displayed in the historic walking tour signs,the benefits of historic preservation and heritage tourism,with local examples. Additions from Commissioners? 8 Planned Posts- May through December 31, 2023. May Preservation Month celebrates historic places and heritage tourism,and promotes the 5-1 Preservation IS social and economic benefits of historic preservation. A Joint Congressional Resolution was introduced on February 15,1973,by Sen.Henry M. Jackson(D-Wash.),to designate the week of May 6-12,1973,as National Preservation Week.President Richard Nixon signed the resolution into law on May 5,1973. In 2005,the National Trust extended the celebration to the entire month of May and declared it Preservation Month. This year's Preservation Month theme is"People Saving Places". PRESERVATION MONTH OELE6RATES HISTORIC PLACES AND HERITAGE TOURISM, AND PROMOTES THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DION HISTORIC 9 5-2 Looking for a historic walking tour map?The Seward Community Library and Museum • Lima _ has all you need,as well as many of the local businesses.Better yet,why not just _=- Protect download it on to your phone right now,saving paper and protecting the the environment.Thanks to the Seward Rota Club,Corvis Designs,the Seward — ■� ■ - Environment Rotary g `�K ■m a�■■■M■ �;�a���■:■,■,�■ - Community Library and Museum and the Historic Preservation Commission for qw _ promoting going paperless. 1=; 4��c _ Swe a Tree J 6 Rotary � �Q. IMAGINE ❑ •••� ROTARY � j, 5-3AN ADVENTUROUS,CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHER This building,constructed in 1916,and known as the Generations Building,is often O t referred to as the Sexton House.Sylvia Sexton was a dynamic,creative,and adventurous woman who embodied the Alaskan 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 -- w•=- -• photography with her to Seward.Sylvia moved freely around the town and captured The Sexton House Seward's daily life in pictures during this pioneering time. Her photos made Sylvia one of the most recognized photographers on the Kenai Peninsula and famous for her scenic views.George Sexton bought the Coleman House in 1907,and Sylvia opened her store there,selling curios,confectioneries,and photography. 10 George renamed it the Sexton Hotel in 1913.The Sexton Hotel and her store burned in 1935. While the store was a total loss,Sylvia was undeterred,opening a temporary new store in the former Seward Commercial Company building,a then a permanent location in the Generations Building,which was an annex of the Seward Commercial Company.The store,aptly named"Sylvia's,"operated until 1951. In the picture of Fourth Avenue before the fire,the Generations Building is visible on the right side of the street,with the awning."Generations"pays tribute to how the Sextons and this 1916 building,called the Sexton House,have withstood the test of time,including the 1964 earthquake and tsunami. The Generations Building reflects the spirit of Seward's adventurous photographer,Sylvia Sexton,and her family June Are you interested in learning more about the history of Seward and the Seward 6-1 Sewar� �istoricaj Wa��Cing Historic Walking Tour? Check out this short but fun video on the history and the 26 Tour signs on the tour.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD9aUOGRT9M istoric Pr ervation mss o i The pity JSeward '—Ac d by chi A,Lk 51—H,--P---Oft— 11 6-2 From Seward's earliest days,Millionaire's Row(built between 1904 and 1906) represented modern life and progress to a frontier town that still had stump-strewn, muddy streets and board sidewalks.These homes embodied a genteel society during „w a period when Seward started to find its identity.This beautiful row of houses is on the west side of the Seward Highway(Third Avenue)north of Jefferson Street. Many locals believed Seward would become the New York of the Pacific,Alaska's c F capital,and a university town with a million citizens.This sounds far-fetched today,as it also did then to more skeptical visitors and business investors of the time. Holland House The Holland House belonged to Murray B.Holland,the general storekeeper for the Alaska Central Railway.He built the home in 1905 between G.E.Winter's house and J.B. Cameron's.That summer,"the clang of pounding nails must have resounded through the town and echoed off the mountains." These interior photos showing the Holland House represent what must have been the "epitome of civilization"in Seward.These photos are unique because it is challenging to find interior pictures of Seward homes from that era. The Holland House was placed on the Seward Historic Register in 1999 6-3 Historic preservation is safeguarding the existence and appearance of historic elements of the community. ' The Historic Preservation Commission helps do this by offering guidance to the city,by xj Liu�z ' ,y�uw�c c helping to educate our community on history,and by assisting people to find resources to maintain,renovate,rehabilitate or restore their historic properties. �t' P .Ilion i11111111� 1 12 July 7-1 There are many tales of races on Mount Marathon before the first official race in 1915.What is truth and what is conjecture remains a mystery and is what Alaskan stories are made of.Native Alaskans may have conquered this"hill"while hunting or for other purposes long before the arrival of the Russians,the early residents such as the Lowells,or later characters like Al Peel and other lookouts who may have used the mountain to place bets on the arrival time of the steamers.Many have run and won this great foot race,much to their competitors'amazement and annoyance.In 1915, t Seward learned it would be the terminus for the Alaska Railroad.Locals celebrated - this important news with a parade,baseball games,potato sack races,dances,and the first formal race on Marathon Mountain.Runners in that race were James Mount Marathon Race Walters,George Kosmos,Eric Burman,Joe Bolduc,and Doc Daykin.Walters came in first with a time of one hour and two minutes and won$35.00.Kosmos came in second,winning$10.00,and Burman came in third,winning$5.00.Seward businesses donated prize money with the hope to make Seward a Fourth of July destination. After 100 years,Seward has become a favorite place for Alaskans to celebrate the nation's holiday.Alex Bolam broke the hour barrier in 1916,with a winning time of 55 minutes and 12 seconds.His record stood until 1928,when a young boy named Ephraim Kalmakoff defeated him with a time of 52 minutes and 35 seconds.Ephraim was a resident of the Jesse Lee Home and was just 14 when he won with this record time.Ephraim also won in 1929 and 1930.His 1928 record stood unbroken until 1957. Ralph Hatch of Seward was a six-time winner in 1946-1950 and 1953,receiving the first perpetual trophy.Many conquered this"hill"long before the first official race in 1915.It calls to young and old alike,"climb me,I challenge you!".They have taken the mountain's dare,including warrior women and kids like the Jesse Lee boys.They race against themselves and each other;just for the challenge and fun.Even families have made a day of it,as well as solo hikers just looking for a solitary moment alone in the sky.The race is one of the oldest foot races in America and is still going strong today. 13 7_2 �aw� tti8 � �O )gj@@p ¢ Historic elements are Structures,Neighborhoods,Landscapes,Building or landscape d r 4 ,;r features,and Culture. A historic element would be the remains of the old flume that used to contain Lowell r" Creek at the edge of Resurrection Bay.You can see the flume in this old photo,and �9 read about it on the Historic Walking Tour sign."Taming Mother Nature for Now". A few remnants of it can be seen at the water's edge. 'i Lowell Creek used to rage down through Seward wreaking havoc,destroying bridges, ° - and blocking access to the north side of town.It was such a problem that in 1927 the Alaska Railroad constructed a small diversion dam and flume(or wooden tunnel)that ran down what is now Jefferson Street to empty into Resurrection Bay.The flume Structure,%,Neighborhoods,Landscapes,Building or couldn't handle the debris and a diversion tunnel was later driven through the btrolseape features,Culture adjacent mountain to carry the stream in 1940.The exit is where you see our big waterfall.It was such a feat of engineering and so significant to Seward's history that it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. 7.3 Historic preservation includes four possible activities: Preservation is preserving a place as it is in the present Rehabilitation fixes up a deteriorated historic property,often for a use other than its Y original one Restoration means putting a building or landscape back the way it was originally,or at a historically significant time in its past 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 "s period. 14 August $-1 In 1903,Seattle developer John BaIlaine and a group of settlers landed in(what would N� become)Seward to build a railroad.Before long,the Seward townsite was neatly laid out and the Fourth Avenue wharf that you could once see from here was built and buzzing with activity.The wharf included a railroad dock,which allowed ships to unload goods immediately onto trains that served Anchorage and Interior Alaska.If you look west toward the Seal-ife Center,imagine there was once a busy dock serving commercial boats,ships,and trains.All kinds of goods were unloaded and loaded for Seward and Interior Alaska.Passengers would disembark to stay in Seward or continue further into Interior Alaska by train.The green building to the right is the Seward Depot,established in 1917.The Great Alaska Earthquake of 1964 destroyed Fourth Avenue Wharf warehouses,docks,and intersecting railroad tracks.You can see remnants of a pier, boat ramp,and the old rail tracks if you look closely in the water.All along the shoreline that stretches from here to the current harbor,you can see the rail tracks and old piers.It's fun to investigate,and you may feel grateful that you were not here to experience that quake and tsunami!The Fourth Avenue wharf and the railroad serving it were a vital part of Seward's history and economy.With the destruction of the wharf and the railroad,Seward's economy and character were forever changed. 15 8_2 , Founders Day.On August 28,1903,Seattle developer John Ballaine and a group of settlers landed in(what would become)Seward to build a railroad.Before long,the Seward townsite was neatly laid out and the Fourth Avenue wharf was built and buzzing with activity.The wharf included a railroad dock,which allowed ships to unload goods immediately onto trains that served Anchorage and Interior Alaska. This photo shows the Ballaine House on Third Ave built in 1905 by prominent Seward businessman Frank Ballaine,who was the brother of John Ballaine,who is considered the founding father of Seward. $_3 MIX&MIRIN OVER It really takes all of us to encourage historic preservation.Our public officials and planners have the power to enact change to preserve our history,but they need to hear from us that we want that in your community.Make your voice heard. s °i • 16 September 9-1 This building was created by a lady for the ladies,and upon its completion,was declared THE CLASSIEST STRUCTURE ON TH TIRE "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 3 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 Orlander Building 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 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. 17 9.2 1 Historic preservation brings business to town.Heritage tourists spend money while they , , are here.Historic preservation is just good business. As a business owner,consider how it might benefit your business. 9-3 Historic preservation preserves the historic,architectural,and aesthetic character and heritage of a community and helps to provide a sense of place and continuity. This photo of the"Second Annual Hunt,Kenai Peninsula,Seward,Alaska,Nov.1,1911" taken by Rev.L.H.Pedersen gives a feeling of the character of the town at the time. 18 October 10-1 This beautiful historic Hotel has played host to a legendary game,ghosts,and famous W:ru. 2 _, pilots.From Kellogg,Idaho,E.L.Van Gilder purchased the lot for$4,000 from T.W. _ Hawkins and constructed the Van Gilder office building in 1916.The building changed hands(and uses)frequently in its early years,but in 1921 was sold to Joseph Badger, who began operating it as the Van Gilder Hotel.Over the decades,the Hotel has 1A ,_ changed names and uses and even played host to a legendary,ongoing pinochle game that visitors could watch from the front windows.Since as early as 1921,the Hotel has - been haunted with sightings including will-o'-wisps and orbs,two men wearing bowler r hats standing behind the front desk,and three children running from room to room giggling.However,the most famous ghost is"Fannie,"a guest from room 202 killed by Van Gilder Hotel her husband in 1950.The local newspaper published an account of the April 5,1950 murder of Fannie Baehm by her husband.The Van Gilder is an integral part of the early Seward fabric,documented on their walls.It contains pictures of characters like Seward settler Eva Lowell and her pet porcupine and scenes of the railroad workers who lived and worked close by during World War I.There are even scenes of President Warren G. Harding's visit,who came to Seward in 1923 to drive the final gold spike in the railroad connecting Seward and Fairbanks.Guest rooms are ornately furnished in period decor. The lobby,lit by antique Victorian fixtures,has a front desk fashioned from an old oak saloon-style bar with a brass foot rail.Early guests to the Hotel included salespeople, railroad and government officials,and,in 1923,U.S.President Warren G.Harding's territorial executives.In 1924,the Van Gilder was a stop for the Army Air Service Team that made the globe's first aerial circumnavigation.Known as the"Round the World" pilots,when the Army Air Service Team's floatplanes landed in Resurrection Bay,it was the first time that many of Seward's 1,000 residents saw an airplane.In addition to being a place to stay,the Van Gilder has housed Masonic and Odd Fellows lodge rooms, the Seward Gateway newspaper,doctor and attorney offices,Christian Scientists,and the Seward Women's Club.The Van Gilders were active in Seward,but only lived here for a short period.Their daughter Florence was a member of the Athenaeum Literary Society and won a high school debate promoting"Examinations should be abolished"in January of 1916.That sounds like a great idea!The Van Gilder Hotel is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. 19 10-2 It is an efficient use of resources and ultimate recycling.Historic preservation conserves resources,reduces waste,and saves money by repairing and reusing existing buildings instead of tearing them down and building new ones. Resurrect Art Coffee House is a great example.Re-purposed from a church to a business,it is still connecting people in the community.This building was constructed in 1917 to serve as the new Methodist Church.The Methodists eventually outgrew the building,and in January 1949,they sold it to the Lutherans.In 1992,the Lutherans sold it to Mike and Deborah Olson,who turned it into the Resurrect Art Coffee House Gallery.The Olsons passed the beloved property to Mike and Raylene O'Connor,who loved and cared for it,and then sold it to Micheley Kowalski and Michael Steward in 2015.This old church shows us that historic buildings are often best preserved when IT IS AN EFFICIENT USE OF RESOU R[ES. occupied by a thriving business with owners who love It. IT IS THE ULTIMATE RECYCLING! See the historic walking tour sign,"Dreaming and Connecting"out front for more history. 10-3 WI IV E\COURAGE HISTORIC PRESERVATION? Historic preservation adds character and/or charm to a community,and emphasizes its uniqueness.Our old buildings make Seward unique,give Seward a lot of character ® and attract tourists.We are one of the few towns on the road system that still retains VAN GILL DER our historic character. Did you know that the Van Gilder Hotel,built in 1916, has played host to a legendary HOTEL A game,ghosts,and famous pilots?It used to host to a legendary,ongoing pinochle game that visitors could watch from the front windows.Since as early as 1921,the Hotel has been haunted with sightings including will-o'-wisps and orbs,two men wearing bowler hats standing behind the front desk,and three children running from y� room to room giggling.However,the most famous ghost is"Fannie,"a guest from room 202 killed by her husband in 1950.The local newspaper published an account of IT CAN ADD CHARACTER AN11 HARM TO A p Y" the April 5,1950 murder of Fannie Baehm b her husband. D/O R C COMMUNITY.AND EMPHASIZE ITS UNIQUENESS. The Van Gilder is an integral part of the early Seward fabric,documented on their walls with pictures of many famous Seward characters.See the Historic Walking Tour sign on the front,"Games,Ghosts,and History". 20 November 11-1 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 x 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 1 time,to a perfect time. After the fire,people joked that"when the Japanese fly over they won't 235 Third Avenue 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. 21 11-2 XVIIY RNCOUR-\GR HISTORIC PRESERVATION? 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. Look at the beautiful craftsmanship of the Resurrect Art Coffee House on Third Avenue, F' that used to be the Episcopal Church,built in 1916 as an example. — ;jog i R Sed.fZ EP�scoPa( C/�„reh ri Parssnape.Seward A� IT PRESERVES OLD METHODS OF WORKMANSHIP / 11-3 WHY ENCOURAGE HISTORIC PRESERVATION? Historic preservation can attract investment and change the nature of a deteriorating neighborhood or area. The Government Cable House for example,was once a run down home,but was lovingly restored,and now operates as a successful vacation rental property. Tim The Government Cable House is on the Historic Walking Tour and has an interpretive " sign in the front with it's interesting history.This property and its interpretive sign was the inspiration for the Seward Historic Walking Tour. IT CAN ATTRACT INVESTMENT AND CHANGE THE NATURE OF A DETERIORATING NEIGHBORHOOD OR AREA 22 December 12-1 WI4YENCOURAGF HISTORIC PRFSFRVATI Historic 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.Setting up a " business in a historic building is a great way to build a unique character for your business and attract customers. For example,Zudy's and Primrose Provisions both offer fun places to eat or shop in the Seward Depot,or old train station,built in 1917. This building was moved to its current location following the devastating flooding of Lowell Creek in 1928.It was initially built at what is now Adams Street and Ballaine Boulevard to serve the railroad line that ran downtown at that time. Seethe walking tour sign with it's history on the SW side of the IT CAN BE A GOOD building,"Saved from the Flood". INVESTMENT 12-2 Eugene(Gene)Hale was instrumental in the founding of Seward.Like the MILLIONAIRE'S ROW 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 p business,art scene,and social life.The family's patriarch,F.G.Hale, j was the president 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. They formed committees on religion,arts and crafts,photography, geology,transportation,wildflowers and fruits,literature,needlework, and education. The Hale House 49J." 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 23 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 wellknown 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 12-3 1 1 1 Are you a history buff?You know the importance of history to our community.Be a champion for preservation by sharing your knowledge,excitement,and stories. 24 CALL TO ORDER The January 12,2023 regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Tanguy Libbrecht. OPENING CEREMONY Tanguy Libbrecht led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. ROLL CALL There were present: Tanguy Libbrecht presiding and Sue Ward Mary Ann Benoit Dona Walker Art LeMaster comprising a quorum of the Commission; and Bailey Sayler, Library Museum Director Kris Peck, Deputy City Clerk Excused—None Absent—None Vacant—Two CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING—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: Approval of the November 10,2022 Historic Preservation Regular Meeting Minutes. SPECIAL ORDERS,PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS Proclamations & Awards —None Other Reports and Announcements 25 Chair Report Libbrecht reported that the city council has an upcoming special meeting on January 23,2023 to discuss the roles and responsibilities of the boards and commissions. This year the Historic Preservation Commission would not be applying for a CLG Grant,but rather supporting others who might be interested in the program.The due date for Historic Preservation Award nominations would be March 31, 2023. Report on Historic Preservation Facebook Page. Benoit said that HP had posted seven times since their last meeting on November 10,2022. Historic Preservation's Facebook audience was primary women located in Seward.There was also a fair number of people checking the page from Anchorage. The page was drawing attention from all age groups, but mainly people over the age of 35. Benoit felt it was important to provide more education and she wanted to add posts on HP awards,grant opportunities,and the importance of the downtown historic district in regard to receiving grant money. Presentations—None NEW BUSINESS Other New Business Items Resolution 2023-001,A Resolution Of The Seward Historic Preservation Commission 2023- 2024 Priorities Motion (Ward/LeMaster) Approve Resolution 2023-001 Libbrecht wanted to read through the resolution and make amendments as needed. Motion to Amend (Ward/Walker) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Reporting in the second bullet by adding "If applicable" to read, "Annual Certified Local Government (CLG) grant report to the State Historic Preservation Office. (February) (If applicable)" Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous Motion to Amend (Ward/Walker) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Public Outreach in the fifth bullet by striking the words "Maintain" and "presence" and replacing them with "Promote" and "and in the media" to read, "Promote the Seward Historic Preservation Commission online and in the media." 26 Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous Motion to Amend(Libbrecht/Walker) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Seward Historic Structures & Sites in the fourth bullet by striking the words "assisting with planters and"so that is reads,"Support the historic Hoben Park by working towards restoring its historic character." Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous Motion to Amend(Libbrecht/Walker) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Seward Historic Structures & Sites in the fifth bullet by striking the word"Engender"and replacing it with"Support"so that it reads, "Support the preservation and use of the Jesse Lee Home properties for Park use." Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous Motion to Amend(Ward/LeMaster) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Seward Historic Structures & Sites in the sixth bullet which reads,"Track and monitor the progress of the Fort Raymond Subdivision" by striking it in its entirety. Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous Motion to Amend(Benoit/Ward) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Seward Preservation Plan in the first bullet by removing the word "Promulgate" and replacing it with "Encourage" so that it reads "Encourage economic incentives, historical preservation and education." Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous Motion to Amend(Benoit/Ward) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Seward Preservation Plan in the first bullet by removing the word "Promulgate" and replacing it with "Encourage" so that it reads "Encourage economic incentives, historical preservation and education." Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous 27 Motion to Amend (Benoit/Libbrecht) Amend Resolution 2023-001 under Other Commission Tasks in the first bullet by adding "If applicable" so that it reads, "Generate ideas,set priorities,and submit an application for consideration, and take action on CLG grand opportunities that stimulate knowledge of local history, heritage tourism and cultural awareness. (If applicable)" Motion to Amend Passed Unanimous Main Motion Passed Unanimous INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS 2023 Historic Preservation Priorities 2023 Historic Preservation Meeting & Work Session Schedule CITIZEN COMMENTS Rissie Casagranda, inside city limits, said Brown&Hawkins building recently received a grant for a new gutter system. Another historic building, the Van Gilder hotel was also in need of some upgrades. The current owner was made aware that the windows were not up to code and he has been working with a historical architect to replace the windows. This project had been especially difficult with the global supply shortage due to the pandemic,however she expected work to resume in the spring. Casagranda mentioned how she enjoyed meeting local history enthusiasts who reside and work inside these historic buildings. She thanked the commission for all their work and dedication. COMMISSION AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS & RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS LeMaster thanked Casagranda for her kind words. Benoit said that Rotary Park had potential to be a nature park for fish and wildlife viewing. She wanted to make signs that looked similar to the historic walking tour and provided a history of Rotary Park and the lagoon. Situated near the lagoon,these signs would also have information about lagoon ecology and ways to protect the environment. The city manager would be providing a letter of support for the project. Benoit also reported the Rotary Club was interested in a walking audio tour to promote Seward history. There would be a small fee to download the audio program and the funds would go to the Rotary Club. Each sign along the walking tour would feature a professional audio recording. A Seward radio show was also in the works and could generate sound riles for the 28 walking tour. Benoit compared her radio show idea to the popular Car Talk radio show, except the topic would be about Seward's history. Libbrecht wanted to dispel the idea that history was boring and make historic preservation cool and fun. Ward announced that both her and Walker would be gone in April which would create a quorum issue for their April 13, 2022 meeting. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:06 p.m. Kris Peck Tanguy Libbrecht Deputy City Clerk Chair (City Seal) 29 Sponsored by: Seward Historic Preservation Commission CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA RESOLUTION 2023-002 A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION, RECOMMENDING THAT THE 2023 SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARDS BE BESTOWED TO TIFFANY AND AL SILLER WHEREAS, City Council Ordinance No. 2011-001 established the Seward Historic Preservation Award in order to annually recognize an outstanding contribution made by dedicated individuals and/or organizations to preserve the tangible aspects of Seward's heritage; and WHEREAS, the Seward Historic Preservation Commission has chosen Al and Tiffany Siller as the 2023 Seward Historic Preservation Award recipients; and WHEREAS, Tiffany Siller has researched records at the Seward Community Library, the City of Seward, the University of Alaska, and the Seward United Methodist Church for death certificates and family histories for all the people interred at the Woodlawn Cemetery and the Jesse Lee Home Cemetery; and WHEREAS, Tiffany, along with her family, compiled two books of factual details containing family histories and causes of death, and donated them to the Seward Museum; and WHEREAS, histories of the Jesse Lee Home Cemetery were donated to the Seward Historical Society and the Qutekcak Tribal Organization; and WHEREAS, Al Siller constructed wooden handmade crosses and installed them at the Woodlawn Cemetery; and WHEREAS, Al marked each cross with the name of the decedent, the date of birth, and the date of death; and WHEREAS, in addition, Al built and installed small fences around some of the graves; and WHEREAS, Tiffany credits her parents, John (dec.) and Marie Gage, with inspiring her to get involved with this research when she was only 15 years old; and WHEREAS, Tiffany has kept on the family tradition of honoring those who passed by including her husband and daughter, Isabella; and WHEREAS, in great appreciation and recognition of Tiffany and Al Siller's contributions to preserving Seward's history, the Seward is pleased to present them with the 2023 Historic Preservation Award. 30 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA that: Section 1. Tiffany and Al Siller have volunteered their time, expertise, and resources to preserve Seward's history and honor those residents who have passed away. Section 2. The Seward Historic Preservation Commission is pleased to recognize Tiffany and Al Siller by selecting them as the recipients of the 2023 Historic Preservation Award. Section 3. The 2023 HP Award will be presented to Tiffany and Al Siller at a City Council meeting. Section 4. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption. PASSED AND APPROVED by the Historic Preservation Commission of the City of Seward, Alaska, this 1 lth day of May, 2023. THE CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA Tanguy Libbrecht, Chair AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: Brenda J. Ballou, MMC City Clerk (City Seal) 31 RECEIVED 2023 SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARD FEB 0 $ 2023 NOMINATION FORM OFFICE OF THE Nomination forms are due to the City Clerk by: eirY CLERK March 31, 2023 Person you are nominating for this�award: (self-nominations are acceptable) Name: Nominee's contributions towards historic preservation in the community of Seward: Please check all the applicable boxes listed below and include a brief description of the nominee's contributions. (You may use the back of this form) Survey and inventory work of historic architectural and archaeological resources in the community, ❑ Development and submission of National Register of Historic Places nominations for properties within the community. Contribution towards education of citizens regarding local historic preservation and community history. Research and documentation of the history of the community of Seward. Publications about the history of the community of Seward. Reconstruction and restoration work towards historic preservation in the community. Curatorial, historical records, photo collections, or museum contributions which contribute to the community's historic heritage. r Organization of historical records for easy reference for others to gain a better understanding of Seward's historic heritage. Contributions towards historic preservation planning. ❑ Oral history contributions towards preserving Seward's historic heritage. u Progress towards having a climate controlled centralized historic collection in Seward. l Any other contributions related to historic preservation (please explain). Nominee has been notified of nomination: El Yes No Nominee contact info: Phone:�bTYJj r"Q)/a E-Mail: /I(C Ar,2 2,y �. cr)ro ,r? _316 Submitted baiL-VJLPhone: �! 3.JL--I` For more information,contact the City Clerk's office at 907-224-4046 or clerk@cityofseward.net 32 A-`T" �i - 2._.I 13MIk --Il,c- L¢I`tV `b r-���,�-,�1�­71 �kmial n'1 '- kcc �,� � ��i'�`'�� `r!4] ,qY! r z.ra-rt1 Oh /4kE AL �at� k-tu A-;r Wnc�N lAm C0-Av,-o- moo scut L 'C ( dv 1 4/� Ste -tjP4c �- r i 33