The Spirit of Acadia. I. Unrutes: 2004 - -2006. Acadia Founder THE SPIRIT OF ACADIA Alice MacDonald Long A group of more than two dozen vol- contribution to the island; and unteers gathered last November at A project studying water quality of Acadia National Park to discuss ways Frenchman Bay and the lakes and ponds to celebrate and carry on the legacy of the on MDI. "Father of Acadia," George Bucknam Dorr (1853-1944). Since Mr. Dorr was a bachelor, Long term plans are being considered, there are no descendants to keep his memo- as well, including: ry alive and the few publications about the A self-guided trail at Old Farm with early history of the park have not sustained brochures, maps, and signs explaining public interest. the property history and George Dorr's George B Dorr The committee, calling itself The Spirit of role in forming Acadia; MAY BE Acadia, shares the common goal of drawing BACHELOR BUT A permanent museum housing Dorr HE'S. MARRIED TO attention to the achievements of Acadia LAFAYETTE PARK artifacts and a scale model of Old Farm; National Park's founders - George B. Dorr, Charles W. Eliot, and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. A biography of George Dorr, current- Joining in The Spirit of Acadia efforts are ly being written by Dr. Ronald Epp, co- representatives from the Abbe Museum, Bar chairman of The Spirit of Acadia; and Harbor Historical Society, Beatrix Farrand Restoration of the Sieur de Monts area Society, College of the Atlantic, Friends of and the Dorr monument at the foot of Acadia, Great Harbor Maritime Museum, Dorr Mountain, already planned by George B. Dorr, circa 1930s, by Ralph O. Yardley, who Jesup Library, Mount Desert Island Historical the park. sketched several National Park Service personages. Society, Northeast Harbor Library, Wild The Spirit of Acadia Committee currently Park Superintendent and, following his Gardens of Acadia, Woodlawn Museum, meets every other month at Park death, married an ornithologist who taught National Park Service staff and former Headquarters on the Eagle Lake Road. science at Mount Desert Island High School. employees, and others. Anyone interested in participating in this With the help of both her husbands, she Volunteers gathered again in January 2005, project may contact Dr. Ronald Epp, developed both knowledge and love of the with Ron Beard from the University of Maine Southern New Hampshire University, 2500 outdoors, especially through hiking the trails Extension Service facilitating discussions. The North River Road, Manchester, NH 03106- of Acadia and camping. She has lived on MDI brainstorming session led to the creation of 1045 or Mrs. Alice Long, P.O. Box 743, for the past 26 years, continuing her interest several sub-committees exploring efforts Bar Harbor, ME 04609. in the park by volunteering and serving on related to: land conservation and steward- the Acadia Advisory Commission. A geneal- ship, education and exhibitions, publications, ALICE MACDONALD LONG, co-chairman logist, Alice has edited Vital Records Of Mount and trails and the Dorr Old Farm. Each sub- of The Spirit of Acadia Committee, grew up Desert Island, Maine; Marriage Records Of committee is working on both short-term and in suburban Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She Hancock County, Maine; and Marriage Records long-term ideas that will promote awareness served in the WAVES as a Hospital Corpsman Of Washington County, Maine; and was of the founders' roles in the history of Acadia in the United State Navy during the Korean Associate Editor of Maine Families In 1790, and MDI. Conflict. She married a Pennsylvania State Volume II. Spirit of Acadia projects under considera- tion include: Heart of the Matter "George Dorr" riding in an antique car in Bar Harbor 4th of July Parade; It is an opportunity of singular interest, so to develop and preserve the A brochure outlining the history of wild charm and beauty of this unique spot on our Atlantic coast that Acadia's early days and founders; future generations may rejoice in it yet more than we. But I trust it will Displays in museums and libraries be recognized that what we have now achieved is a beginning only and describing the efforts of Acadia's first phi- that our needs are many. lanthropists and visionaries; An essay contest for island school chil- - George B. Dorr, The Story of Acadia National Park dren. encouraging research into Dorr's 10 Summer 2005 Friends of Acadia Journal 2005 CELEBRATION : GEORGE BUCKNAM DORR Acadia National Park Minutes from the Initial Meeting November 16, 2004 Twenty-five interested persons gathered at the training room at Acadia National Park headquarters at 10:00 A.M. on November 16, 2004 to discuss the feasibility of developing programs to celebrate the life of park founder, George B. Dorr and his colleagues. The participants were welcomed by Alice Long and she recognized Ron Epp from Merrimack, New Hampshire who is writing an archival-based biography of Mr. Dorr. Each person was asked to identify themselves and the organization (if any) that they represent plus describe their interest in celebrating the life of George Dorr. The group was reminded that because of funding limitations of the park, this would have to be a volunteer effort. Ron Beard, the facilitator, placed the following statement on the board: "What would be happening, what would change in "our" world, if we were wonderfully, wildly successful in our celebration of the contribution of George Dorr?" Everyone jotted their own answer to this question on "post-its" which were then displayed to the entire group who were then asked to suggest conceptual groupings for similar or related responses: the "Tactics of G.B. Dorr"; "George Dorr the person"; "Tangible Results"; "Dorr's connection to other people in his era, that people would see"; and "Extend his vision and replicate". The facilitator then asked the participants to name what they would hope the results of the celebration would be and to place a short statement or word on a colored piece of paper with colored markers and place the paper on the board at the front of the room. The following statements resulted: "Continued preservation"; "People would know that G.B. Dorr placed preservation above exploitation"; "Permanent education of the public"; "Increased awareness and appreciation"; "Inspiration to continue and perhaps build or expand his work"; "Young people would be inspired to emulate George Dorr"; "Continue the history of G.B.Dorr for the next generation"; "His legacy remembered and perpetuated"; "Mr. Dorr's legacy is honored and protected"; "Greater understanding of the collective effort of the many who helped form Acadia National Park"; "Model of political tenacity for public parks"; "We are bold like G.B.Dorr - think Frenchman Bay"; "People would ask if so-and-so Dorr in "this town" was related to G.B.Dorr". 2. Ron then asked the group to write what project they would like to see in 2005 and beyond to celebrate Dorr's life. The following items written by participants were placed on the board: "A self-guided trail thru Compass Harbor area"; "Bus service direct to Storm Beach House"; "Endowed, docent staffed Dorr exhibit at Storm Beach House"; "Buy land in his name"; "Extrapolating G.B.Dorr's vision - between M.D.I. & Schoodic is salt water - make it a Marine Research Area"; "Dorr effort at land acquisition"; "LONG-TERM land protection at Acadia complete all private parcels inside ANP boundaries are preserved"; "Stewardship Conference"; "Conference historical about Dorr and early history of park"; "Lectures/Discussion groups"; "Involve Local educators"; "Develop and implemenet curriculum for local schools re. G.B.Dorr - fall 2005"; "Encourage concessionaires to educate about G.B.Dorr"; "Essay contest in schools"; "A George Dorr chair at COA"; "A dramatic re-enactment"; "Interpretative/Educational signing at 'Old Farm"; "Open Garden Day at Wild Gardens of Acadia"; "Float in 4th of July parade"; "Old Farm" rebuilt as a trail museum/ANP interpretive center"; "G.B.Dorn memorial Nature Center at Sieur de Monts Springs with interpretive signs"; "Dr. Abbe & Mr. Dorr's walking tour "Their view" of the park"; "Walking Tour Guide to historically significant Dorr landmarks"; "Native Plant presentations/cultivation/preservation"; "Dorr Trails defined and interpreted"; The following were recommendations that were also mentioned: "That it would be but the first of ongoing events focused on ANP"; "Let's seet up an ongoing (not a one time) event"; "Family activities in park - a series of events that focus on how one man made a difference"; "Website"; "An article in GEORGE magazine"; "(1) Epp book, (2) Republish "Sieur de Monts Papers"; "Booklet on Dorr's park work"; "Series of articles on Dorr and Accomplishments"; "Publications on Dorr's contributions"; "Brochure with narrative and trail to places G.B.Dorr valued, preserved, created"; "Video/MPBN, etc.". Ron Beard then asked the group to split into committees of interest for participants and to plan future meetings to decide how best to celebrate Dorr's life. The Land/Stewardship committee consisted of Dave Manski, Sheridan Steele, Paul Haertel, Steve Perrin, Stephanie Clements and possibly Lee Terzis who was unable to attend and potential members Ben Emory and Jane Disney. Their next meeting date is Monday, January 10, 2005 at 9:00 A.M. at park headquarters. The Education, Schools, Libraries, Museums/Events and Activities committee consisted of Bob Pyle, Sue Leiter, Barbara Cole, Brook Childrey, Nancy Howland, Ken Cline, Maria Yarborough, Joshua Torrance, Deb Dyer. This group will meet at the Jesup Library on January 4, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. The Trails/Interpretation and Old Farm committee will meet December 7, 2005 at 10 A.M. at Park Headquarters in the Conference Room. The members are Mary Jones, Deb Wade, Ken Coulter, Marla O'Bryne, Tom St. Germain and Alice Long. The Publications and Media committee consists of Ron Epp, Patrick Chasse, Peter Bachelder, Charlotte Singleton and Raymond Strout. The committee will meet at Garland Farm at Patrick Chasse's on Route 3 in Bar Harbor on December 15, 2004 at 1:00 P.M. 3. Those who were unable to attend this meeting will receive a copy of this report. Thanks to all those who attended the November meeting and we look forward to seeing you at the entire Dorr Celebration 2005 committee meeting at Park Headquarters at 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, January 11, 2005. Sincerely, Alice MacDonald Long Ronald Epp Attended or Interested Parties(*) Peter Bachelder P O Box 367, Ellsworth 207 667 4296 pdb@acadia.net Ron Beard UMaine Ext, 63 Boggy Brook Rd. Ellsworth 207 667 8212 Len Bobinchuck ANP 207 288 3338 Ext. 8701 Dennis Bracale 91 Ledgelawn Ave, BH 207 288 9324 Earl Brechlin The Islander, Bar Harbor 207 288 0556 news@mdislander.com Patrick Chasee P.O.Box 118, B.H. 207 288 2415 MossKing@ad.com Brooke Childrey ANP 207 288 8729 prooke_childrey@nps.gov Stephanie Clements POBox 45, 43 Cottage, BH 207 288 3340 stephanie@friendsofacadia.org Ken Cline 31 Ledgelawn Ave.,BH 207 288 3381 ksc@ecology.coa.edu Barbara Cole P.O.Box 896, BH 207 288 3400 bacsc@adelphia.net Ken Coulter 1014 Route 3, B.H 207 460 4502 Baahaba46@yahoo.com Debbie Dyer 26 Hancock St., BH 207 288 3807 debdyer@acadia.net Ronald H. Epp 47 Pond View Dr, Merrimack,NH. 603 424 6149 r.epp@snhu.edu Ann Funderburk (*) P.O.Box 146, Seal Harbor 207 276 3301 Ron Gilles (*) Cousins River Productions 207 865 9569 25 Old County Rd., Freeport crpl@suscom-maine.net Judith Goldstein Somesville jsgsp@ix.netcom.com Michael Graves (*) Albert Meadows, BH 207 288 3830 Paul Haertel P.O.Box 1431, SWH 207 244 0262 phaertel@prexar.com Nancy Howland Jesup Library, Bar Harbor 207 288 4635 nhowland@jesup.lib.neus Mary Jones HC33, Box 3, Bass Harbor 207 244 5461 seascapebass@prexar.com Steve Katona (*) Pres. COA 207 288 5015 Koffman, Ted (*) COA/State Representative Diane Kopec (*) Abbe Museum 207 288 3519 Sue Leiter 60 Spring St., BH 207 288 3265 sleiter@prexar.com Alice M. Long P.O. Box 743, Bar Harbor 207 288-5809 Nan Lincoln (*) Bar Harbor Times, Bar Harbor 207 288 3311 Doug MacBeth (*) Jax Lab Librarian 207 288 6164 dtm@jax.org David Manski ANP 207 288 8720 david_manski@nps.gov Keith Miller (*) 62 Spring, BH 207 288 3057 5. Doug Monteith (*) ANP Advisory Board Marla S. O'Byrne P.O. Box 45, BH 207 288 3340 marla@friendsofacadia.org Steve Perrin P.O. Box 585., BH 207 288 8240 earthling@acadia.net Bob Pyle N.E.Harbor Library 207 276 3995 rpyle@acadia.net Henry Raup (*) 27 Somes Ridge Rd. Mt.D. 207 244 9009 haraupmd@acadia.net Tom St. Germain 8 Eagle Lake Road, B.H. 207 288 0355 tom@bhmaine.com Rick Savage (*) Northeast Harbor, ME 207 276 3883 Charlotte Singleton P.O.Box 653, Mt Desert 207 276 9323 mdihistory@gwi.net Sheridan Steele NPS 207 288 8700 sheridan_steele@nps.gov Toby Strong 207 244 9102 Raymond Strout 2 Cadillac Avenue, Bar Harbor 207 288 3126 Joshua Torrence P.O.Box 1478, Ellsworth 207 667 8671 jtorranceldhotrail.com Tom Vining 219 Dead River Rd. Bowdoin, ME 04287 Info@vfthomas.com Deb Wade ANP 207 288 8802 deb_wade@nps.gov Marie Yarborough POBox 286 207 288 3519 educator@abbemuseum.org 6. Education, Schools, Libraries, Museums/Events and Activities Subcommittee Last meeting Tuesday January 4, 2005, 10:00, Jesup Library In attendance were: Marie Yarborough, Joshua Torrance, Sue Leiter, Barbara Cole, Nancy Howland, Deb Dyer. Absent: Bob Pyle, Brook Childrey, Ken Cline. The following is a list of committee members' current programs/events/exhibits/places that connect to George B. Dorr AND are currently accessible to the public. We brainstormed these current programs/events/exhibits/places as a starting point to help us highlight current, on-going connections to GBD. Our hope is that we would generate a brochure or listing of these current programs/events/exhibits/spaces to be handed out and/or available on the website. After we meet with the larger group, we will discuss the development of new programs as related to GBD. We also discussed using the 4th of July parade as one high-profile "kick-off" for the GBD 2005 celebration, with a possible theme of "The Spirit of Acadia" and a possible GBD impersonator as the Master of Ceremonies (like "Champlain" was last year.) 1. Bar Harbor Historical Society- Has a permanent exhibit about GBD, including personal artifacts from his life. 2. The Wild Gardens of Acadia- Sue Leiter/Barbaba Cole will supply a brief blurb about the connection. 3. NEH Library-Bob Pyle has a collection of photographs from GBD times; he may be able to set up a small display (will have to contact Bob.) 4. Jesup Library- Can pull together a section of books relating to GBD and the people who helped create ANP. 5. The Abbe Museum at SDM- the current exhibit is about the beginning of the museum in 1928, and may easily be adapted to reflect the strong relationship between GBD and Dr. Abbe at hat time. 6. The Dorr Museum at COA was the first ANP park headquarters. 7. There is a traveling exhibit about the HCCT, put together by Joshua Torrance & Brooke Childrey. It used to be located in the 2nd floor of the gift shop at Jordan Pond. It could easily be relocated.- need to fin out where it is and where it might go. 8. MDI Historical Society is planning an exhibit on GBD-must talk to Charlotte Singleton. Other sources of information about George Dorr: The Woodlawn Museum had archival material for research, with an appointment. ANP had some larger artifacts of GBD, not currently on display and may or may not be available for research. Ron Epp put together and shared an extensive finding aid for researching GBD. 7. The Publications and Media Subcommittee of the 2005 Dorr Celebration Project met December 15, 2004 at 1:00 P.M. at Garland Farm. The meeting was hosted by Patrick Chasse and attended by Ron Epp and Charlotte Singleton. Unable to attend were Peter Bachelder, Marla O'Bryne, and Ray Strout. Patrick discussed the importance of finding a local web host for the creation, development, and timely updating of both narrative and graphic information about the Dorr Celebration. State-based organizations with server capacity and web development experience were discussed. Ron will contact Steve Katona at the COA and Marla at FOA to determine the feasibility of their involvement, especially at the COA where the availability of work-study students might minimize the impact of a new project on existing organizational staff. The Maine Historical Society, Maine Historic Preservation Commission, and the Woodlawn Museum were also considered as possible hosts. It is too early to be specific about web site content. The subcommittee members were confident that the character of the web site would become clearer after subcommittee reports are discussed at the full committee meeting scheduled for January 11th, 2005 meeting (at 1:00) at Park HQ. Copyright issues were addressed. On the one hand, media that is in the public domain (i.e., published prior to 1923) can be freely used. Permissions will needed for other published and archival documents. Charlotte stressed the importance of having the P&M Subcommitee generate informative publicity announcements about Dorr Celebration plans and planners as frequently as possible, beginning in January 2005. The Mount Desert Islander, Bar Harbor Times, and Ellsworth American will receive copy to encourage public awareness about this project. The town news columnists for these publications should also be provided with information about developments that impact on their specific communities. There was a concluding discussion about how to "anchor" this project. What would be the appropriate centerpiece that would solidify and sustain interest in the unique origins of Acadia National Park? Among the topics considered were several of the 2005 anniversary events that Ron Epp distributed as well as the organizations or institutions that were the manifestations of Dorr's generosity or creativity (e.g., HCTPR, Jesup Memorial Library, MDIBL, Wild Gardens of Acadia, etc.). Do we need to focus our efforts on a particular "location" such as Old Farm as the incubator for not only the park itself but other derivative projects? Or shall we be emphasizing the diversity of island locations where the imprint of conservation supporters such as the HCTPR Incorporators as well as Abbe, Farrand, Rockefeller and others can be represented through exhibits and other forms of public education? Where will our attention be focused in 2005? Can this Celebration be sustained as we move toward the 2016 Centennial of the National Park Service and the Centennial of the Sieur de Monts Monument? It was clear that these issues warranted extensive discussion at the next full meeting. 8. The Trails/Interpretation & Old Farm Subcommittee of the 2005 Dorr Celebration met December 7, 2004 at 10 A.M. at Park Headquarters The meeting was attended by Mary Jones, Marla O'Bryne, Deb Wade and Alice Long. Ken Coulter had announced previously that he would be away and therefore unable to attend. Mary Jones passed a photograph of a sign in a western national park which had the history , description and photograph of an historic site that had been destroyed by fire to show what we might consider doing at "Old Farm" since there is no house. Deb Wade passed out copies of several studies which have been done by the park in the past regarding interpretive programs and the park plans including historic sites. There was discussion regarding the long term and short term park plans which include "Old Farm". This historic site is not at the top of the priority list in the park due to lack of funds and more urgent needs in the park. There was discussion about the possibility of charging a fee for interpretive programs such as is done by private historical societies. Deb walked the committee through the historical interpretive program that was done in 1995/96? at "Old Farm" and Sieur de Monts and explained the problem with cars, traffic and lack of parking. It was suggested that a brochure could be handed out at "Old Farm" to visitors telling about other historical sites in the park that the visitor could see on their own. Marla will approach the Friends of Acadia to see if funding is possible for purchasing signs and brochures to be placed at Old Farm. There was discussion regarding the scale model of "Old Farm" that was created by a student at the College of the Atlantic and is now in the park. Mary Jones asked if the Mount Desert Island Historical Society could borrow it this coming year to have in their display. She will approach the society to see if they could house the exhibit in 2005. Deb discussed the use of Storm Beach cottage as an interpretive center where Mr .Dorr's things could be exhibited and the problems entailed. There was discussion about where an exhibit might be displayed since the Visitor Center is too crowded in the summer A work day at "Old Farm" was discussed to make the area safe for park visitors. A plan would be required and work leaders would be assigned by the park to carry out the plan. This would involve Gary and Jonathan Gormley who would help decide when the work day could be held. It was stressed that this would be a volunteer effort rather than using park employees thus saving park funds. The park is planning to build a gazebo in the area of the nature center at Sieur de Monts in 2005 and a sign near the Dorr monument for interpretation by park personnel and the guides on the buses. No date was set for the next meeting until after the entire committee meets on January 11, 2005. Spirit of Acadia Minutes 2 1/11/2005 2005 CELEBRATION GEORGE BUCKNAM DORR Acadia National Park Minutes from the Second Meeting January 11, 2005 Twenty-four participants-including more than a half dozen new faces--gathered in the Acadia National Park HQ training room to further discuss ways in which these volunteers could further the legacy of George Bucknam Dorr and the other key figures responsible for the establishment of Acadia National Park. Ron Beard, as facilitator, discussed key procedural guidelines that promote productive group meetings. Following the introduction of new participants (whose named are appended in the updated distribution list), each subcommittee spokesperson summarized the results of their group meeting. In order to avoid redundancy, their minutes are attached. Participants discussed opportunities for collaboration across subcommittee lines as well as ways in which the efforts of a particular subcommittee could reinforce the efforts of another. Steve Perrin suggested that in deliberating about which events and programs are worth our efforts, we should be guided by a central question: What would George Bucknam Dorr want? While this questions remained unsettled, consensus was achieved on several matters: That the legacy of Acadia is the product of several key historic figures and that the contributions of George B. Dorr should be situated within the context of his peers That "The Spirit of Acadia" would be the most resonate name for our collaborative efforts, focused on the men and women who inspired and made manifest ANP That a draft mission statement will be developed by the Publications and Media subcommittee and distributed for revision That "boilerplate" Spirit of Acadia language is needed SO that the participants can speak with one voice That projects should be spread over several years, prioritized within an initial three year timeframe That a "Kick-Off" event of some magnitude is needed to draw attention to our efforts That Spirit of Acadia presence in the Bar Harbor July 4th Parade, Earth Day, the Friends of Acadia Trail and Carriage Road Volunteer Projects, National Trails Day, and Founders Day were deemed viable venues for Year One--whereas Memorial Day was significant since this date signaled the return of many summer residents That an aggressive publicity strategy must be finalized and implemented ASAP That our efforts need to focus on specific audiences or constituencies that would be most responsive to the programs and events developed by the subcommittees 2. That efforts by organizations with a common mission (e.g., libraries or museums) need to be coordinated SO that programs show the breadth of their related holdings That readily available and accessible graphic resources (e.g., maps) need to be developed SO that both residents and visitors can easily identify the locations of scheduled events That we need to remain centered on low cost or no cost events or programs; where costs are associated with a program, estimates are needed ASAP That our efforts must be well situated within the timetable of routine programming prepared annually by Acadia National Park That the specific programs and events to be developed for 2005 need to be agreed upon no later than the March 2005 full meeting. These discussions concluded with an encouragement on the part of facilitator Ron Beard to remain closely connected through e-mail, voice, and snailmail. Each Subcommittee was asked to provide Alice Long or Ron Epp with a place and time for their February meeting which could be shared with everyone of the distribution list; once that meeting has taken place, it would be helpful if subcommittee minutes could be distributed in advance of the March meeting date (forward these minutes to R. Epp). Finally, Each group was asked to identify what they need to realize their goals. The meeting concluded at 3:00. The Spirit of Acadia next scheduled meeting is March 1st at 1:00 at park headquarters. Addendum: Would a representative of each subcommitte please forward to me ASAP a place and location for their February meeting, including a list of current members. If there are omissions or misstatements in these minutes, please bring these matters to my attention. Finally, on the distribution list that follows please bring to my attention omitted details as well as corrections for errors on my part. Most appreciatively, Ronald Epp Updated Distribution List Peter Bachelder P o Box 367, Ellsworth 207 667 4296 peterdowbachelder@adelphia.net Ron Beard UMaine Ext, 63 Boggy Brook Rd. Ellsworth rbeard@umext.maine.edu 207 667 8212 Shirley Beccue ANP, Asst. Chief Interpretation 207 288 8803 Shirley_beccue@nps.gov Lyn Berzinis COA, Special Events Coor. 207 288 5015, Ext. 254 lberzinis@coa.edu Michael Blaney ANP 3. Michael_blaney@nps.gov Len Bobinchock ANP, Deputy Sup. 207 288 3338 Ext. 8701 Len_Bobinchock@nps.gov Dennis Bracale 91 Ledgelawn Ave, BH 207 288 9324 visions@acadia.net Earl Brechlin MD Islander, Bar Harbor 207 288 0556 news@mdislander.com Margie Coffin Brown NPS, Olmsted Center 781-893-6045, ext. 15 Margie_Coffin_Brown@nps.gov Patrick Chasse Beatrix Farrand Society P.O.Box 118, B.H. 207 288 2415 MossKing@aol.com Brooke Childrey ANP, Sawtelle Research Center 207 288 8729 brooke_childrey@nps.gov Stephanie Clements Friends of Acadia P.O. Box 45, 43 Cottage, BH 207 288 3340 stephanie@friendsofacadia.org Ken Cline College of the Atlantic 31 Ledgelawn Ave., BH 207 288 3381 ksc@ecology.coa.edu J. Coates Port in a Storm Bookstore 207 287 4114 nyoda@acadia.net Barbara Cole Bar Harbor Garden Club P.O.Box 896, BH 207 288 3400 bacsc@adelphia.net Ken Coulter Baahaba46@yahoo.com Jane Disney MDI Water Quality Coalition 207 288 2598 jane@mdiwqc.org Jeff Dobbs Jeff Dobbs Productions 207 288 4354 112 Cottage St., BH www.jeffdobbs.com Debbie Dyer Bar Harbor Historical Society 4. 26 Hancock St., BH 207 288 3807 debdyer@acadia.net Dianna Emory Friends of Acadia, Chair 207 288 8130 dkemory@prexar.com Ben Emory ANP Advisory Board 207 288 8130 bemory@acadia.net Ronald H. Epp 47 Pond View Dr, Merrimack, NH 03054 603 424 6149 r.epp@snhu.edu Franklin Epstein MD MDI Biological Laboratory fepstein@bidmc.harvard.edu Eliot Foulds NPS, Olmsted Center Eliot_Foulds@nps.gov Anne Funderburk P.O.Box 146, Seal Harbor 207 276 3301 afunder@adelphia.net Ron Gilles Cousins River Productions 207 865 9569 25 Old County Rd., Freeport crp1@suscom-maine.net Judith Goldstein Somesville jsgsp@ix.netcom.com Michael Graves Albert Meadows, BH 207 288 3830 Paul Haertel P.O.Box 1431, SWH 207 244 0262 phaertel@prexar.com Nancy Howland Jesup Library, Director 207 288 4245 nhowland@jesup.lib.me.us Mary Jones HC33, Box 3, Bass Harbor 207 244 5461 seascapebass@prexar.com Steve Katona College of the Atlantic, President 207 288 5015 skkatona@coa.edu Ted Koffman COA/State Representative Koffman@acadia.net 5. Diane Kopec Abbe Museum 207 288 3519 Anne Kozak MD Islander/ COA amk@coa.edu Sue Leiter Bar Harbor Garden Club 60 Spring St., BH 207 288 3265 sleiter@prexar.com Alice M. Long ANP Advisory Board P.O. Box 743, Bar Harbor 207 288-5809 Along4@verizon.net Nan Lincoln Bar Harbor Times, BH 207 288 3311 Doug MacBeth Jax Lab Librarian 207 288 6164 dtm@jax.org M. Mcgiffert mcgiff@widowmaker.com David Manski ANP 207 288 8720 david_manski@nps.gov Keith Miller 62 Spring, BH 207 288 3057 kmiller@acadia.net Doug Monteith ANP Advisory Board Marla S. O'Byrne Friends of Acadia P.O. Box 45, BH 207 288 3340 marla@friendsofacadia.org Kent Olson Friends of Acadia P.O. Box 45, BH 207 288 3340 kenolson@friendsofacadia.org Steve Perrin P.O. Box 585., BH 207 288 8240 steveperrin@verizon.net Bob Pyle N.E.Harbor Library, Director 207 276 3995 rpyle@acadia.net Henry Raup 27 Somes Ridge Rd. Mt.D. 207 244 9009 6- haraupmd@acadia.net Steve Ressel Dorr Museum, Director, COA sjr@coa.edu A.R. Roberts Southwest Harbor, ME 207 244 9658 Sydney Rockefeller Great Harbor Maritime Museum 207 276 5650 sydr@acadia.net Tom St. Germain 8 Eagle Lake Road, B.H. 207 288 0355 tom@bhmaine.com Rick Savage Northeast Harbor, ME 207 276 3883 Susan Shumaker Florentine Films, Assoc. Prod. 304 292-2497 145 Keener Rd., Morgantown, WV susan@stonecircleinc.com Earle Shettleworth Jr. Maine Historic Preservation Comm. 207 287 2132 Earle.Shettleworth@maine.gov Charlotte Singleton MDI Historical Society P.O.Box 653, Mt Desert 207 276 9323 mdihistory@gwi.net Sheridan Steele NPS, Superintendent 207 288 8700 sheridan_steele@nps.gov Toby Strong 207 244 9102 Raymond Strout 2 Cadillac Avenue, Bar Harbor 207 288 3126 Lee Terzis ANP, Cultural Resources 207 288 8728 Lee_Terzis@nps.gov Joshua Torrence Hancock County Trustees of Public Reservations/Woodlawn Museum P.O.Box 1478, Ellsworth 207 667 8671 jtorrance1@hotmail.com Lydia Vanderbergh Lvanden@aol.com Tom Vining 219 Dead River Rd. 7. Bowdoin, ME 04287 Info@vfthomas.com Deb Wade ANP, Chief of Interpretation 207 288 8802 deb_wade@nps.gov Marie Yarborough Abbe Museum POBox 286 207 288 3519 educator@abbemuseum.org Rev. 3.15.05 Spirit of Acadia Subcomittee on Public Relations MINUTES 2-21-05 This subcommittee met on Monday, February 21, 2005 at 10:00 AM in the classroom of the Mt. Desert Historical Society in Somesville. Present were: Charlotte Singleton (Chair), Raymond Strout, Patrick Chasse', and Anne Funderburk (acting sec'y). Absent were: Ron Epp and Peter Bachelder. Patrick reported on the possibility of setting up a website (with help from students at College of the Atlantic[(COA]). He has already set up a website for Beatrix Farrand on his own account. He has registered a Dorr website as georgebdorr@aol.com which can serve as an e-mail address and website address. The possibility of establishing a link to the Chamber of Commerce site was discussed; it was pointed out that many families planning vacations to this area use that site, SO our link to it would give wide exposure to the Spirit of Acadia [SOA] program. It was suggested that all the participating sub-groups of SOA be encouraged to post their material on one of these websites or establish a link to the Acadia National Park [ANP] website (if the ANP officials are willing). Patrick and others will explore these possibilities. "Old Farm": various possible programs revolving around Mr. Dorr and "Old Farm were discussed. 1. An interpretive tour of the site one day each month of the Season, to be listed in the ANP calendar. This would require use of ANP's summer staff (which might be a problem because of reduced government funding). The script for the tour could be based on Ronald Epp's article in the most recent issue of the Society's Journal, "Chebacco". Would ANP allow such a tour? 2. The possibility of a permanent display for future generations at the "Old Farm" site was discussed. It would be similar to other permanent displays in the Park and would probably cost at least $1000. It was suggested that funding for this project (assuming that ANP officials agree to it) could be raised at the Friends of Acadia (FOA) Summer Auction at the" George B. Dorr Evening" by allowing bidders to contribute and have their names listed on the display. 3. A much less expensive but also less permanent display was suggested in the form of a vinyl banner with reproductions of photos, documents and text was also suggested. This could be supplemented by interpretive brochures placed in a box on site (as is done with the Nature Trail at Jordan Pond and Wild Gardens of Acadia), the brochures (hopefully) being recycled into the box at the end of the tour. Information to the Press: various timings and outlets were discussed. 1. Use the "Acadia Weekly" to reach tourists. Encourage the different sub-groups of SOA to submit articles within the generic framework of Committee language [see below]. 2. Newspapers: generate an article (or series of articles) based on Ron's piece in the History Journal, emphasizing the "unfolding" nature of the celebrations and aimed at the local population. These should go to all 4 local papers, the first by mid-May or even earlier. Special Programs: 1. A 1-hour long video on the Carriage Roads is available. This could be shown at the Criterion (probably too expensive) or at COA in the Gates Auditorium (which has equipment for showing videos). This could be timed to coincide with the display at COA in July of Raymond Strout's collection of MDI memorabilia (including Dorr materials) which he has rescued from destruction. Query: would COA be willing to co- sponsor this presentation without charge or with a nominal fee? Committee Focus: 1. Should we set up an annually recurring Founders' Day (August 13th, the date on which the first meeting of the Trustees took place, in the Music Room at Seal Harbor)? What sorts of events / presentations could be part of such a celebration? 2. Should different topics be "farmed out" to different subcommittees for development and presentation? Possible topics include: the Green Mountain Railway, trail history, carriage roads. The Historical Society offered to take on the Green Mt. Railway as its project. It was suggested that we need to develop a hierarchy to organize materials and topics, and to set up a long- term series of goals to be progressively achieved. Minutes: Dorr Subcommittee on P.R. 2-21-05 p. 2 The following possible generic umbrella statement was developed to be attached to all publications relative to SOA: "This and other events during 2005 are designed to celebrate the lives and contributions of George B. Dorr and other visionary advocates for public lands whose efforts resulted in the formation of Acadia National Park." This proposed statement is open to revision and amendment. It was agreed to circulate a request to all other groups planning events related to SOA that they notify this subcommittee of those plans NO LATER THAN March 30, 2005, for inclusion in the overall calendar for the coming Season. Respectfully submitted, Anne Stebbins Funderburk (acting sec'y) SpiritoFheadia Minutes 3 3/1 /2005 2005 SPIRIT OF ACADIA CELEBRATION: GEORGE BUCKNAM DORR Acadia National Park Minutes from the Third Meeting March 1, 2005 A fierce winter snowstorm hit Mount Desert Island March 1st and island-wide closures forced the meeting relocation to Jesup Memorial Library. In attendance were Ronald Epp (Acting Chair), Anne Funderburk (Acting Sec'y) Nancy Howland, Alice Long (Co-Chair) , Steve Perrin, Raymond Strout, and former ANP Superintendents Paul Haertel and Keith Miller. The 90 minute meeting focused on short-term planning, weighing the merits of diverse projects and events that were previously suggested for 2005. While it was recognized that many island organizations would develop and promote their own programs that incorporated elements of the Spirit of Acadia, there was concern that this Committee remain focused on a few 2005 projects that can have a significant impact. The Chair opened the session with these questions: What's in the pipeline? In what sequence? Should all events focus on George B. Dorr (or on any single individual)? The Committee favored a broadened scope for the Spirit of Acadia. A historical discussion followed in which it was emphasized that August 13th 1901 was the date when Harvard President Charles Eliot brought together in the Seal Harbor Music Room a group that would coalesce into the Hancock County Trustees of Public Reservations. There was Committee consensus for the development of annual continuing celebrations on or near this August 13th "Founders Day." Since the Black House remains in the hands of the Trustees, it could be used as a focus for the celebrations. However, the problem of public transportation to and from the site was raised. Could the Island Explorer be utilized for this (there isn't much parking space for lots of visitors)? The MDI Biological Laboratory was suggested as an alternative site since Dorr donated the land. MDIBL has ample parking and good space for lectures and other presentations. Ron Epp will contact Franklin Epstein M.D. for guidance on this matter. The question of defining the conceptual boundaries of a "Founder" was raised. Steve Perrin's suggestion was greeted with enthusiasm. He proposed that the term be limited to those who acted in the matter with "vision" and "persistence" from 1901 through the 1916 establishment of the Sieur de Monts Monument. It was suggested that Founder presentations should be organized in "layers" or "levels" of involvement, Establishment of the Trustees would be followed by other groups as they entered the process: I. Original Founders and their goals II. National Park Service Founders and their Successors III. Transformations engendered by island communities of interest 2. The scope and representative themes of each of these layers requires input and specificity. Alice Long reported on the "Old Farm" project, hopefully involving museums and libraries for special events: 1. She suggested a folded brochure (several thousand) to be distributed to bus and ship tours of Acadia to educate the public (not to be funded by ANP). It was noted that ANP already has a brochure, but we don't know what it contains, especially in reference to the history of "Old Farm". Additional research on this matter will be pursued by Alice. 2. Spirit of Acadia inclusion in the annual 4th of July Parade. A volunteer has offered to ride in an antique car, dressed as George B. Dorr, and driven by a chauffeur. This would be followed by a float with a banner: "Father of Acadia". It is feasible that island students would like to help out with it. Alice will contact the high school to determine whether their graphics or theater students could become involved in building the float, perhaps organized around a representation of the popular Sieur de Monts Springhouse. 3. Create a body of volunteers to guide 4th and 5th grade students around the "Old Farm" site. Ask if schools would cooperate in an shared essay contest. Possible topics for research paper: "Who was George B. Dorr?", "What would be the character of MDI without Mr. Dorr's legacy? What characteristic (s) of Mr. Dorr would you like to exemplify and why? We might consider a variety of prizes for the best essays.. 4. There is an impressive six by four by three foot scale model of "Old Farm" created by a COA student which could be displayed this summer, perhaps at the College of the Atlantic (COA). Its placement could be coordinated with the Raymond Strout COA exhibit of Dorr memorabilia; it is notable that Ray's collection includes the original Lafayette National Park HQ sign. Initial inquiries suggest that the American Legion facility on Cottage Street might be available as a site for displays during the coming season (Alice Long will investigate further); there is concern that the American Legion entranceway is too narrow to admit the model of "Old Farm. It is believed that that the MDI Historical Society may be interested in displaying this model (Ron will follow up on this issue). 5. An annual George B. Dorr Legacy Award was proposed. While the criteria for such an award have yet to be defined, it could be allied with an area ( e.g., conservation) where Mr. Dorr made notable contributions or to a particular place (e.g., Old Farm) where his ideas took root. Alice Long informed the Committeebelieves that Ted Koffman and Dennis Damon may be able to get Governor Baldacci to come to MDI for a major Dorr-related event. The Committee also expressed interest in the inclusion of a Schoodic component. 3. The Subcommittee of Public Relations (see attachment) has made some significant strides in recent weeks. Every Committee member is encouraged to channel Spirit of Acadia-related events to subcommittee chairperson Charlotte Singleton (or Ronald Epp) SO that a tentative listing of events can be distributed in advance of the next full Committee meeting (April 19th, 2005 at 1:00 in the ANP HQ Training Room). Among other Dorr-related scheduled events is the Alice Long article on the Spirit of Acadia in the forthcoming Friends of Acadia Journal, a June 30th lecture on themes associated with the Dorr Memorial by Ron Epp, and interviews of Committee members by MDIslander editorial staff. Paul Haertel reminded us of Southwest Harbor centennial celebrations and the possibilities of Spirit of Acadia inclusion. The Committee remains very interested in the Cousins River Productions film currently under development on the Rockefeller Carriage Roads. Both former park superintendents were enthusiastic about the cinematic expression of this magnificent network that was essential to the development of the park.. The Committee considered what venues might be available for screening. It was determined that the Hulls Cove Visitor Center auditorium is too tightly scheduled to allow of such a screening. It was agreed that we should show the video more than once; other venues discussed included the Criterion Theatre (Alice will pursue this), Northeast Harbor Library, Reel Pizza, and the Pemetic School. The COA was proposed especially since the premiere of the film would be physically allied with Raymond Strout's exhibit. It was also suggested that we explore with Cousins River Productions the feasibility of support from the National Park Foundation; ANP Park Superintendent will be queried by Alice Long about this issue. The next meeting of this Committee was scheduled for Tuesday, April 19, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. in the Acadia National Park Headquarters Training Facility on the Eagle Lake Road in Bar Harbor, Maine. Respectfully submitted, Anne Stebbins Funderburk, Acting Sec'y Page 1 of 2 Epp, Ronald From: Anne Funderburk [afunder@adelphia.net] Sent: Friday, March 11, 2005 1:47 PM To: Epp, Ronald Subject: Spirit of Acadia Spirit of Acadia Committee Meeting 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, 2005 MINUTES The following members of the Committee met in the Jesup Library in Bar Harbor (the previously announced meeting place at Park Headquarters being closed by severe snowstorm): Ron Epp (Chair), Anne Funderburk (Acting Sec'y), Paul Haertel, Nancy Howland, Alice Long (Co-Chair), Keith Miller, Steve Perrin, and Raymond Strout. The Chair opened the session with these questions: What's in the pipeline? In what sequence? When? (It was stressed that we need to avoid overload.) Should all events focus on George B. Dorr (or on any single individual)? No consensus was arrived at. [Ron is this correct?] The possibility of establishing a Founders' Day (August 13th) as a basis for continuing celebration over the years was proposed. Since the Black House remains in the hands of the Trustees, it could be used as a focus for the celebrations. The problem of public transportation to and from the site was raised. Could the Island Explorer be utilized for this? (There isn't much parking space for lots of visitors.) The MDI Biological Lab. was suggested as an alternative site since Dorr donated the land for the Lab. The Lab has ample parking and good space for lectures and other presentations. The question of how to define Founders was raised. It was suggested that the term be limited to those who acted in the matter with "vision" and "persistence" up till the execution of their goal (establishment as a National Monument in 1916). It was suggested that a presentation on this should be organized in "layers" or "levels" of involvement, with the Trustees coming first, followed by other groups as they entered the process. I. Original Founders and their goals II. next group [Ron - do you have notes on this?] Alice Long reported on the "Old Farm" project, hopefully involving museums and libraries for special events: 1. She suggested a folded brochure (several 1000's) to be distributed to bus and ship tours of Acadia to educate the public. This would not be funded by ANP. It was noted that ANP already has a brochure, but we don't know what it contains, especially in reference to the history of "Old Farm". 2. 4th of July Parade: A volunteer (name?) has offered to ride in an antique car, made up and dressed as George B. Dorr, and driven by a chauffeur. This would be followed by a float with a banner: "Father of Acadia". Details of float to be arranged. Possibly students would like to help out with it. 3. Create a body of volunteers to take 4th and 5th grade students around the "Old Farm" site. Ask if schools would co-operate in an essay contest. Possible topics for research paper: "Who was George B. Dorr?", "What Would MDI be like Without George B. Dorr?" [Did we discuss prizes?] 4. There is an excellent scale model of "Old Farm" which could be displayed at CoA in July during the Raymond Strout exhibit of memorabilia. There is a strong possibility that the American Legion facility on Cottage Street would be available as a site for displays during the coming season. We need to measure the doorway to see if it's wide enough to admit the model of "Old Farm". Alice will send an article to Doc Young of FoA for publication as a part of FoA's Dorr celebration this summer. 5. We could create an annual George B. Dorr Legacy Award. A possible category could be trail maintenance. We would need to give this a lot of advance publicity. It appears that Ted Koffman and Dennis Damon can get Governor Baldacci to come to MDI for a major Dorr-related event. We need to construct a TimeFrame for Year One and outline the content for Year One. The MDIslander will interview Ron Epp and Paul Haertel. We need to involve students in building the float for the 4th of July Parade. 3/11/2005 Page 2 of 2 Spirit of Acadia Committee Meeting: March 1, 2005 MINUTES (continued) p. 2 of 2 pp. There followed a discussion of the possible use of the Hulls Cove Visitor Center auditorium for screening the Carriage Roads video. It was determined that the facility is too tightly scheduled to allow of such a screening. It was suggested that CoA be the site of the Premiere of this film, with plenty of advance publicity. This would occur during Raymond Strout's exhibit. Since PBS is currently working up a series for 2009 on National Parks (including Acadia) it was suggested that we ask whether the Carriage Roads video might provide material for this production or possibly be used during a PBS fund-raising session. It was also suggested that we approach the National Park Foundation to see if they would get involved in the publicity for and distribution of the Carriage Roads video. We should ask Supt. Sheridan Steele about this. It was agreed that we should show the video more than once; possible viewing sites were suggested: The Criterion Theatre (Alice will pursue this), Northeast Harbor Library, Reel Pizza, the Pemetic School. The next meeting of this Committee was scheduled for Tuesday, April 19, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. in the Acadia National Park Headquarters Building on the Eagle Lake Road in Bar Harbor, Maine. The present meeting adjourned at approximately 2:40 p.m. [Ron - do you remember the actual time?] Respectfully submitted, Anne Stebbins Funderburk, Acting Sec'y 3/11/2005 Spirit of Aeadia Unitustes 4 4/19/2005 2005 SPIRIT OF ACADIA CELEBRATION Acadia National Park Minutes from the Fourth Meeting April 19, 2005 The Spirit of Acadia Committee met at Acadia National Park Headquarters April 19, 2005 at 1 P.M. Fifteen members were present, several attending their first meeting. Alice Long welcomed the members and thanked those Committee members representing institutions for their splendid achievements in fulfilling the mission of this Committee as well as the contributions of members who had no institutional responsibilities. Ron Epp asked the group to consider the future direction of this Committee now that the coordination of Summer 2005 activities had been accomplished. Has the functionality of the four sub-committees been eclipsed by the larger Committee? Would the Committee continue to meet on a regular basis in future years? Nancy Howland suggested that currently the full group seems to accomplish the most, but Anne Funderburk suggested that that is because the sub-committees meet separately before the full committee. Charlotte Singleton proposed that we wait until fall-following a Summer busy with many events--and then address the issue again. There was consensus on this point. Patrick Chasse discussed The Founders web site. The current role of the College of the Atlantic is to host the site, design it according to the structural parameters that we provide, and to update content delivered by the Spirit of Acadia. Patrick suggested that all content be delivered to him as soon as possible with an eye to providing the COA with the initial information needed by the end of May. Stephanie Clement emphasized that the website should contain a current calendar of events. Ron reaffirmed the need for the publicity sub-committee to develop activities, to provide coordinated oversight of activities, and to structure the development of the website. It was agreed that each organization would write and promulgate their own publicity. On a related matter, it was suggested that several articles in a series on the Founders might improve public awareness if they were published this Summer in one or more of the island newspapers. Four articles of roughly five hundred words were proposed with suggested authors Ron Epp on Mr. Dorr; Anne Funderburk on George Stebbins; Paul Richardson on Mr. Rockefeller; and Bob Pyle on Charles Eliot. The Publicity sub- committee will contact prospective authors and approach the local media to determine newspaper interest and scheduling. Alice determined that there was Committee interest in an essay contest for 4th and 5th grade MDI students that would grow out of interaction with teachers and guides leading walks at Old Farm, emphasizing the importance of George Dorr and the other 2. Founders of ANP. The idea of an annual George B. Dorr Legacy Award to one of the students was strongly endorsed. Alice will pursue this for fall 2005 implementation. Discussion focused on the status of activities listed on the Calendar of Events handed out at the meeting (see additional attachment for revised list). Charlotte Singleton indicated the MDI Historical Society is actively pursuing funds in order to renovate the Selectman Building in Somesville in time to display of the Old Farm model. Ron will contact the former student of COA who built the model for additional historical information. Charlotte also reported that the Historical Society has the Fred Savage architectural renditions of Old Farm which could also be displayed. Shirley Beccue discussed the timetable for announcements in the Acadia National Park monthly Beaver Log publication; April 25 was the deadline for June content [an announcement was subsequently submitted prior to the deadline] and May 13th for July/August content that should be directed to ANP Writer-Editor Virginia Reams She indicated that Patrick Chasse's idea about linking the park website with the Spirit of Acadia website at the COA Dorr Museum of Natural History could easily be accomplished. There was considerable discussion regarding a Founders Day celebration on or near the August 13th anniversary of the 1901 establishment of the Trustees. Shirley suggested that August 12th might be a better date to hold a celebration at Sieur de Monts due to traffic considerations. Other potential meeting places were the Abbe Museum and/or the Village Green in Bar Harbor. The Bar Harbor parks and recreation committee would need to be contacted for permission to use the Village Green and refreshment costs for such a proposed celebration would probably be in the range of $200. Alice will make inquiries about the availability of the Green. Trails Day (June 6th ?) was suggested by Paul Haertel as an alternative date for commemorating the Founders. Brooke discussed the use of an exhibit developed by the HCTPR and ANP for the centennial of the Trustees Displayed at Jordan Pond several years ago, its graphical content fits well with the Founder themes we have been discussing. Alice contacted the acting director of the YMCA and will contact Diane Kopec at the Abbe Museum to determine whether it might be displayed at their facility. The Sieur du Mont area was discussed as a likely cite for an annual Founders Day celebration. Since the area will undergo some restoration this fall attention was directed at the physical condition of the George B. Dorr monument, badly in need of preservation treatments. Brooke Childrey said all the monuments will be getting attention and conservation, but the pit marks in the GBD monument may not beyond complete restoration since its installation following the Fire of 1947. Finally, Paul Haertel lifted Committee spirits when he suggested the Acadia Corporation as a possible source of funding for the Harraseeket Films post-production costs for the 90 minute carriage road film. "Rockefeller's Teeth" was produced by the 3. same company that created the documentary film Words from Millie's Garden: the Story of Pettengill Farm which aired on Maine PBS in 2003. Hopeful that the film might be premiered as part of the planned Summer events, the Committee supported Alice's suggestion that she contact Acadia Corporation member Marion Smith to secure details about the application process and that Ron will subsequently discuss application details with Harraseeket Films President Ronald Gillis. The next meeting will take place June 7th at 1:00 at Jesup Memorial Library. The meeting was adjourned at 3 P.M. Spirit of Acadia Minutes 5 6/7/2005 1 2005 SPIRIT OF ACADIA CELEBRATION Acadia National Park Minutes from the Fifth Meeting June 7, 2005 The following members of the Spirit of Acadia (SOA) attended a meeting held at the Jesup Memorial Library at 1 PM on June 7, 2005. Stephanie Clement, Barbara Cole, Deb Dyer, Ron Epp, Ann Funderburk, Nancy Howland, Alice Long, Keith Miller, Mary Obydke, Paul Richardson, Sydney Rockefeller, Charlotte Singleton, Toby Strong, Raymond Strout, John Tolland, and Ed Winterberg attended. Ron asked for acceptance of the minutes from the last meeting (motion made and seconded) and solicited from those present any omissions or corrections in the current version (June 6, 2005) of the Spirit of Acadia Calendar of Events. Sydney questioned whether the Old Farm model currently in park storage might be exhibited at the Great Harbor Museum in Northeast Harbor since the proposed Somesville location is unworkable; there was enthusiasm for this proposed display. The Jesup Library is scheduled for the exhibit in September. Following discussion about the logistics of relocating the exhibit and the need to protect it from damage, it was agreed that Ron will work with ANP Sawtelle Curator Brooke Childrey in arranging for its likely exhibition in Northeast Harbor and scheduled display at the Jesup Library. Public relations issues dominated much of the meeting. Ron reported that the June issue of the "Beaver Log" contained a full listing of May-June SOA events well situated beside a biographical essay on Mr. Dorr. Content has been provided to the "Beaver Log" editor for the July/August issue. The "Mount Desert Islander" has agreed to publish a Spirit of Acadia authored series in July and August containing characterizations of four of the Park Founders: essays will appear on Charles Eliot (by Judith Goldstein), George B. Dorr (Ron Epp), George L. Stebbins (Anne Funderburk), and John D. Rockefeller Jr. (Paul Richardson). Also, Anne Kozak from the "MDIslander" interviewed Ron for an article regarding our committee Alice reported that she had given a summer long calendar of events to the publishers of "Acadia Weekly" and they had requested more written material about the Founders Day event in August. The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce has received from Alice the SOA calendar of events now posted on the C of C web pages. It was suggested that a copy be given to the Southwest Harbor Chamber and the Northeast Harbor Chamber. Charlotte will contact these parties as well as the "Bar Harbor Times" and "Ellsworth American." There was discussion regarding the benefits of an information brochure to be distributed at the August 13th Founders Day celebration. John Tolland told the group that the park has a handout, but it does not refer to the Hancock County Trustees of Public Reservations (HCTPR). Ron reminded the group that the National Park Service (NPS) 2 "Acadia" web site contains two brief essays on the formation of the park and the establishment of the HCTPR which might be edited to create the desired brochure. Charlotte will work with Ron since she has access to paper stock. NPS permission to use this information will be investigated. Ron reported on the status of the "George B. Dorr" video which Jeff Dobbs Productions hoped to create for Summer '05 airing on the Acadia Channel. There are scripting, image selection, and narration issues that made it certain that completion of this project will be delayed until next year. On a similar matter, cinematographer Ron Gillis is awaiting a response to a grant application to the Acadia Corporation for production costs associated with his video on the carriage road system; note, we have subsequently learned that "Rockefeller's Teeth" was not acted upon favorably by the Acadia Corporation. The Spirit of Acadia Committee is still hopeful that this unique film will be premiered on Mount Desert Island. Design and construction of a Founders web site is also pending; the content has not been forthcoming and the design is hampered by the fact that COA students have left for the summer. Alice introduced Toby Strong who will dress and play the role of George B. Dorr in the 4th of July parade. He will be driven by a friend who will represent Dorr's chauffeur. A dark blue banner with white letters saying "Father of Acadia, George B. Dorr" will be carried in front of the antique car by two daughters of Anne Craig from the MDI Biological Lab. Deb Dyer has put in the necessary paperwork for the entry into the parade and she will send Alice the map of the plan for where the entry will be placed in the parade. The Founders Day event was discussed August 13th from 2-4 PM on the Village Green in Bar Harbor. Alice explained how Jeff Dobbs and the Friends of Acadia saved the group from expensive liability insurance for the Village Green site. The Friends of Acadia covered the cost of adding a rider to their existing policy. The informative display panels created in 2001 for the HCTPR centenary celebration will not only be exhibited throughout the summer at the YMCA and the Jesup Library, they will be displayed at the band pavilion during the event. A table, chairs, sound equipment, paper cups, paper plates and plastic forks will be needed to serve the light refreshments. Contact Alice Long to offer the assistance. Several members volunteered to provide Stephanie Clement (by July with a list of persons who should be invited. Suggestions for speakers to offer brief remarks should be forwarded to Ron. It was suggested a log book should be purchased to get signatures of those who attend this event. Stephanie, Nancy, Mary Opdyke and Alice will serve on the committee to create posters to be duplicated and placed around the island to publicize the Founders Day event. Alice updated the Committee on efforts to communicate the Spirit of Acadia goals to school children. She explained how the Curriculum Coordinator for the local school district intends to use 3rd and 7th graders in a contest involving the writing of essays where students will explain how the character of MDI today would be different if GBD had not labored to preserve the land. The best essays will be read at next years Founders Day event and the children would receive an award, yet o be determined. Another 3 suggestion involved COA and/or MDI High School students engaged in independent historical research about the genesis and early development of the park. There was a discussion of the future of the committee. It was pointed out that 2006 will be the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the Sieur de Monts National Monument as well as the creation of the National Park Service; this date also commemorates the 125th anniversary of the first occupancy of Old Farm. Once again the group agreed that we should reconvene after summer events are concluded to determine if we have accomplished all elements of our original objectives. Are there long range objectives that need planning and execution in the years ahead? The group agreed to meet in either the park office or the Jesup Library on October 18th at 1 PM. The "hat" was passed SO members of the group could help defray some of the costs of the scheduled events. Two hundred and eighty four dollars was donated. Ron will report at the October meeting on expenditures. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 2 PM. The next meeting will take place October 18th at 1:00. Location to be determined. Yahoo! Mail - georgedorr@yahoo.com Page 1 of 2 Yahoo! My Yahoo! Mail Search Search YAHOO! MAIL the Web Welcome, georgedorr@yahoo.com [Sign Out, My Account] Mail Home Help Mail Addresses Calendar Notepad What's New - Mail Upgrades - Mail Options Check Mail Compose Search Mail Search the Web Folders [Add Edit] Previous I Next I Back to Messages Printable View - Full Headers Inbox (1) Delete Reply Forward Spam Move Draft This message is not flagged. [ Flag Message - Mark as - Unread Sent Date: Thu, 07 Jul 2005 10:41:55 -0400 Bulk [Empty] Trash From: "ALICE MADONALD LONG" Add to Address Book [Empty] Subject: INVITATION LIST FOR AUGUST 13TH CELEBRATION 2005 To: "Ronald Epp" CC: "Alice MacDonald Long" INVITATION LIST FOR AUGUST 13TH CELEBRATION 2005 Old Hancock County Commissioners Town Managers - Bar Harbor, Mount Desert, Southwest Harbor, Tremont Acadia Advisory Commission Roxanne Quimby - Winter Harbor, ME Selectmen - Southwest Harbor, Mount Desert, Tremont be Sig. Town Council - Bar Harbor Acadia Corporation Wittenberg - Stables Toby Strong - Penury Hall, Southwest Harbor, ME Chambers of Commerce - Directors and Staff Sue Murphy - Acadia Weekly Friends of Acadia - Officers and staff Spirit of Acadia - members Bar Harbor Times htp://us.f612.mail.yahoo.com/ym/ShowLetter?MsgId=9937_437751__17244 1714 2998 0 122 1 7/7/2005 Yahoo! Mail - georgedorr@yahoo.com Page 2 of 2 MDIslander YMCA - Director and staff Jesup Library - Staff Acadia National Park College of the Atlantic - staff Bar Harbor Historical Society Abbe Museum - staff Wild Gardens of Acadia MDI Historical Society Southwest Harbor Historical Society Tremont Historical Society Northeast Harbor Library Southwest Harbor Library Somesville Library Port in a Storm Bookstore Tom Crikelair - Island Explorer Delete Reply Forward Spam Move Previous Next Back to Messages Save Message Text Check Mail Compose Search Mail Search the Web http://us.f612.mail.yahoo.com/ym/ShowLetter?MsgId=9937_437751_17244 1714 2998 0 122 1 7/7/2005 Spirit of Acadia Minutes 6 10/18/2005 1 SPIRIT OF ACADIA COMMITTEE Acadia National Park Minutes from the Sixth Meeting October 18, 2005 The following members of the Spirit of Acadia (SOA) attended a meeting held at Acadia National Park HQ at 1 PM. Ronald Beard, Stephanie Clement, Ron Epp, Ann Funderburk, Alice M. Long, Marla S. O'Bryne, Paul Richardson, Charlotte Singleton, Raymond Strout, Joshua Torrance, Deb Wade, and Marie Yarborough attended. Facilitator Ron Beard led the Committee through a discussion that included the following agenda items: Assessing the 2005 events Mission of the Spirit of Acadia: Completed or continuing? Re-evaluation of objectives not realized n 2005 2006 Founders Day Celebration Island newspaper series for 2006 Website development Outstanding committee expenses Discussion covered each of the preceding items but these Minutes will only reflect the key issues that resulted in delegation of responsibility: 1. Anne Funderburk queried the park service on the obstacles that prevented the development of Old Farm as a location for educating the public about the historical roots of Acadia National Park. Deb Wade stressed that staff time when prioritized against other park objectives was the main constraint, not the costs associated with a project of the scale envisioned by prior conversations. She emphasized that there would be a need for commitments from volunteers, park property planning to determine the most appropriate access venues for educational exhibits, trail development considerations, and inquiries into the impact of additional visitation on the cultural and natural resources of the original Dorr Family property. Wade stressed that this would be a multi-year project but that by the next meeting she would have discussed these issues with other park stakeholders and be able to update us on what could be done and when. 2. It was agreed that every year a different individual Founder or Founders cohort would be researched, publicly promoted through the Island media, and aligned if possible with the evolving goals of Acadia National Park, the Friends of Acadia, and other member organizations. For example, The Friends of Acadia celebrated the accomplishments of George B. Dorr in 2005 and plan to focus attention on the Rockefeller Family contributions in 2006. How could our efforts in 2006 be 2 mutually supportive? Spirit of Acadia members who were not present were encouraged to respond to this question following distribution of the Minutes. Following discussion of the first Founders Day celebration on the Bar Harbor Village Green and the belief of Committee members present that public awareness of the achievements of the Founders was raised through our collective efforts, planning for a 2006 Founders Day celebration was discussed. There was consensus that this should be a more modest event, that the Sieur de Mont site might be a suitable venue (in recognition of the 90th anniversary of the 1916 establishment of Sieur de Monts National Monument) pending completion of renovations, and that an interesting theme might be the 2006 centennial of the Antiquities Act which authorized the President of the United States to establish National Monuments-without Congressional approval. The feasibility of these initiatives will be pursued in the months ahead. 3. Ron Epp brought to the attention of the Committee certain information contained in the published historical sketch and record of holdings of the Hancock County Trustees of Public Reservations which resulted from inquiries he had undertaken at the urging of HCTPR Executive Director Josh Torrance. Namely, that nearly a third of the 129 land transfers that came through the Trustees--to eventually be transferred to the Federal government in establishing and expanding Acadia National Park--were donated by women. There has been no scholarship on this topic to date. Two Committee members volunteered to begin the process of drawing attention to the contributions of founding women: initially, Linda Dows Cooksey will be researched by Anne Funderburk; Eliza L. Homans will be investigated by Alice MacDonald Long. 4. A Committee Survey was suggested as a mechanism of securing feedback about past, present, and future projects from members who are unable to routinely attend our meetings. Those present agreed on polling all members on certain content issues and the survey questions are attached as an addendum to these minutes. Distribution list recipients can simply email back to the sender (r.epp@snhu.edu) their recommendations-which can be entered into this Word document--which will be compiled by the end of December 2005 and reported anonymously in the next Minutes. See below. 5. A tentative meeting date was set for mid-December but holiday commitments created difficulties for many Committee members. We are currently exploring several January dates and will post the new meeting date as soon as possible. Alice MacDonald Long & Ronald Epp (Scribes) MEMBER SURVEY A. In reflecting on the 2005 activities-lectures, exhibits, 4th of July parade, 3 And Founder's Day celebration on the Bar Harbor Village Green-were some of these more effective than others? Please prioritize. Lectures and articles were most effective to me, because I attended them. B. Initially the planning for Commitee activities was delegated to four Sub-committees that achieved some degree of success but were not sustained by member participation. If you had experience with one of these Sub-committees, can you offer suggestions for how they might have been more successful? No comment C. How many Spirit of Acadia activities were you involved in (e.g., that you attended Ray Strut's College of the Atlantic exhibit or read Paul Richardson's article on J.D> Rockefeller Jr. in The Islander) ? None 1-2 3-4 5 or more D. What should be the objectives of the Spirit of Acadia for 2006? Education and promotion of the "spirit" of the founders through joining the FOA lands initiative E. If your suggested objectives were incorporated, would you be prepared to take on a leadership role in realizing these goals? I will assist with education efforts at the park as possible (captured in your minutes). Thank you for your input!! Please email response to r.epp@snhu.edu. Spinit of Acadia 2006 AssessMent 3/21/2006 The Spirit of Acadia March 21, 2006 New Directions In the eighteen months of this loose confederation of individuals and institutional representatives, we have been modestly successful in drawing public attention to the magnificent legacy of the Founders of Acadia National Park. The Summer of 2005 was notable for an unprecendented number of exhibits, lectures, and forms of public recognition of those who contributed to the establishment of Acadia National Park, much of it centered on George B. Dorr. On the other hand, a careful review of the Spiurit of Acadia Minutes from the first exploratory meeting of November 16, 2004 shows that many ideas were not realized, an ambitious array of Ideas that included self-guided nature trail of Compass Harbor Bus service to Storm Beach house Endowed, docent-staffed Dorr exhibit at Old Farm Buy land in his name Stewardship Conference Develop and implement curriculum for local schools recognizing Founders A Dramatic re-enactment Dr. Abbe & Mr. Dorr walking tour-their "view" of the environment Native plant presentations Four Sub-committees were established to evaluate proposals and develop plans for consideration by the larger group; unfortunately, over time this proved to an ineffective mechanism for action. What lies ahead? Has the group achieved its purpose? Clearly we have not realized many objectives that became clear to us as we planned the Summer 2005 programs. But have we the human capital to develop a more realistic set of annual programs? John D. Rockefeller, Jr. suggested to the Hancock County Trustees of Public Reservations in the early 1930's--after all but a handful of land parcels had been gifted to the United States- that their mission had been realized and that dissolution of the group made good business sense. Fortunately for all of us who partake of the cultural richness of Woodlawn Museum, his advice was not heeded. If our mission continues to be educating the public about the wellspring of Acadia National Park-for a host of reasons that we should specify as elements of our mission statement-- then it is suggested that over the next decade we might work to achieve the following objectives: 1. Celebrate centennial achievements Between 1906 and 1916 there are several significant events that we could be recognized with a centennial events, each being a stepping-stone to what will clearly be a national celebration of the 1916 establishment of the National Park Service, not to diminish the importance of the 2. establishment of the Sieur de Monts National Monument on this date. We might choose to focus on just three centennial events, minimizing the stress associated with annual activities and drawing public attention to the most important anniversary benchmarks in the establishment of ANP. For example, the acquisition of the Homans property, the beginning of Rockefeller's carriage roads, the date when property acquisition had reached a sufficient critical mass SO as to be of interest to the Federal Government, etc. 2. Publications The Founders Series articles which appeared in the Islander were very well received. They could be continued as contributors were identified. The island organizations with established publication programs could be approached about lending their sponsorship to historical inquiry on persons, places, or themes associated with the establishment and early history of the Park. They could be distinguished from their own efforts by being designated "Occasional Papers," which should receive wider circulation by being made available on the Internet from links on institutional website. Patrick Chasse's promotion of a Spirit of Acadia website would also allow us to gather together content-both narrative and graphic--and to post related documents that are no longer constrained by copyright prohibitions. 3. Special Events Continuing the educational theme, over the decade planning could take place for hosting a half- day local conference that focused on a so-called legacy theme. For example, Ken Burns has in preparation "America's Best Idea," his ten hour PBS series on the evolution of the National Park Service. As with his earlier cinematic documentaries, this production will receive heavy media coverage when it airs in 2009 and local themes could be discussed locally, especially since ANP is one of the featured parks. The apparent merits of this proposed redirection of this Committee al is that it has several educational components couched within a liberal time frame that enables the work of the Committee to progress. It relies on the basically non-economic sponsorship local affiliated institutions, the commitments of individuals to work together on an irregular basis to accomplish specific goals, and should be a rewarding experience for all involved that will draw new blood into our loose confederation. J. Torrance, A. Long, R. Epp