Marcus Historical Society Meeting

January 23, 2008

The Marcus Historical Society met Tuesday, January 23 at the Reed Center.

The minutes of the November meeting were approved as published in the Marcus News.

The treasurer reported balances of $4,662.54 in checking and $1,705.40 in savings.  The major source of income for the last two months has been the sale of playing cards and calendars.  Membership dues and donations have also been received.  The last two utility bills were $123.95 and $161.74 respectively.  Members voiced their concern at these amounts as the thermostat is turned low and the building is not entered most days.

Four members who were able to tour Aurelia's historical society building made a report on the displays they found there.  They also made inquiries about the Aurelia society's policies and operating procedures.  The Aurelia tour guide stressed the importance of documenting items.  Their group uses an accessions book, index cards, and an accessions number placed on or with each item.

The forming of an accessions committee was discussed.  Faith Specht and Sherree Ogren are the first appointees.

A membership committee will consist of Mary Peterson, Bonnie Husman, and Sherree Ogren.

A tentative grand opening date was discussed.  This would probably take place on the Friday of the Marcus Fair.  Will check with the Fair Board and will also see how much progress has been made with preparing the building and acquiring items to display.

President June will contact Judy Bowman who heads the LeMars museum and ask her to speak at the next meeting which is set for February 26.  (If this date does not work for Ms. Bowman and another date does, members will be notified.)

Several of the members present decided that after adjournment they would tour the basement.  Meeting adjourned.

Members present:  Faith and Don Specht, Mary Peterson, Brian Nelson, Bonnie Husman, Sherree Ogren, June Pallesen, Linda Spieler, Fern Clarkson, and Maxine Shea.

Respectfully submitted,