Meeting on Monday, October 21, the Stanley Area Historical Society membership approved several recommendations that were presented to them by the Board of Directors. Faced with several major updates, the society has been seeking consultations and bid quotes to replace an outdated furnace and some additional updating of heating and air conditioning equipment that have potential for reducing energy consumption. With receipt of several bids, approval was given to contract with Korenuk’s Heating and Cooling, to do the work. Approval was also given to a three person committee to move forward with a planned removal of an old basement entry and closure of that space. Bids will be sought and the hope is to have the work done in early spring.
In his treasurer’s accounting, Jim Ericksen reported on the income and expenditures from January 1 through September 30. His report included results of the sales of the museum’s most recent publication, “Vintage Views of Stanley Wisconsin Brought to Life with Color.” Sales have been going very well and it was noted that there are 38 (out of 124 ordered) copies of the hardcover book and 100 (out of 200 copies ordered) of the softcover book remain to be sold. Ericksen also reviewed an IRS issue the museum was faced with, and revealed the good news that the issue has been resolved with no penalty. In another good news item, Ericksen noted the receipt of a donation from the estate of Jim Kessenich. As with past practice, half of the donated funds received were approved to go into the Trust Fund and the other half will go towards helping with the costs that will be incurred with planned museum updates. In a final item related to the use of museum funds, it was approved to continue the work being done at the museum by Landon Wilson, who was employed at the museum this past summer. Landon was approved to work six additional days during 2024. By his working one day every two weeks, it is hoped that digitization work can continue in the absence of enough volunteer workers to currently help with this project.
In a Building and Grounds report, it was noted that Jordan Donnerbauer and his Landscaping Class has worked two class periods cutting back flowers and shrubbery. The historical society appreciates being used as site for this training and getting the work done, thus preparing the landscape for winter and new spring growth. There is concern that the old oak tree on the museum property is in danger of being lost. It is on a watch list as this summer it showed signs of stress – leaves turning brown and falling throughout the summer and more dead branches than usual.
It was noted that the major exhibit on Maple Street Businesses in the 1950’s and 1960’s was completed this summer. The Maple Street exhibit, the bulletin board on the Klu Klux Klan, located in the meeting room, and the 100th Anniversary of the Stanley Auditorium bulletin board will continue in 2025. Betty Plombon reported that the West Maple Street event, held on September 22, attracted about 15 attendees who provided a good amount of information on the residences and businesses that were part of the scene in the 50’s and 60’s, plus information on old Tannery Town. Plombon also noted that in 2025 she has tentatively planned a Wedding Dress Review to be held in October and there are plans to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Plombon Funeral Home.
In announcements, it was noted that the Semi-Annual Meeting of the Clark County Historical Society will be hosted by the Stanley Area Historical Society on Saturday, November 2. The gathering begins with a potluck meal at noon. The host society is responsible for the main meat dish. It was also announced that the Annual SAHS meeting will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025.