Millis Historical Commission Town Report: 2013
The Millis Historical Commission is a municipal
agency of the town government. The members of the Historical Commission are
volunteers that are appointed by the Selectman. They serve as local
preservation advocates and as an important resource for the preservation and
planning of the towns historic assets. They work closely with the Massachusetts
Historical Commission and the Massachusetts Community Preservation Committee.
Bandstand,
In early spring of 2013 work continued on the restoration of the town bandstand. Thanks to overwhelming support from the Millis Cultural Council, local citizens, donations and volunteer efforts, the work was completed just in time for the grand reopening concert on April on 27th. Special thanks to James McKay and the DPW for their assistance with this project and to Zach Maltinsky who spent many hours working along with the “Save our Bandstand” Committee for his Senior Class project. In 2014, the Recreation Dept. plans to hold a “Summer Concert Series” at the Bandstand.
Ellice School House
In March, preliminary work began on the planned restoration project to preserve and restore the Ellice School House on Pleasant St. in the Rockville section of Millis. An extensive 3D laser scan was completed of the structure by Steven Wilkes, who volunteered his time and use of specially designed equipment for this purpose. In addition, Steve’s wife Meg, a member of the Historical Commission and a professional archeologist completed a ground penetrating radar survey of the property surrounding the old school house.
Niagara Fire House
Major work was able to continue on the Niagara Fire House having received a grant from the CPA which has allowed the Commission to procure a skilled contractor to complete the work needed on the outside of the building. This includes the repair of the siding, windows, building a handicap ramp and porch as well as relocating windows and a rear entrance with porch. The building will also be repainted in the spring. Currently a new indoor stairway is under construction by students of the Tri County Vocational School in Franklin. Special thanks go to Historical Commission member Marc Prufer and his architectural firm Guzman – Prufer for donating their architectural and design services. Work will also continue in the coming year to restore the interior Engine Room which houses the two nineteenth century “Hand Tubs” known as the “Niagara” and “Peacock”.
Oak Grove Farm House
New paint job completed in spring, color changed to historical correct color, Muted Mulberry with cream trim.
Nathan Maltinsky Chair Marc Prufer
Joanne Gannon, Secretary Mark Slayton
Christina Friskey Charles Vecchi
Jacqueline Graci Fred Waskiewicz
Bonnie McBride Meg Wilkes
Bandstand,
In early spring of 2013 work continued on the restoration of the town bandstand. Thanks to overwhelming support from the Millis Cultural Council, local citizens, donations and volunteer efforts, the work was completed just in time for the grand reopening concert on April on 27th. Special thanks to James McKay and the DPW for their assistance with this project and to Zach Maltinsky who spent many hours working along with the “Save our Bandstand” Committee for his Senior Class project. In 2014, the Recreation Dept. plans to hold a “Summer Concert Series” at the Bandstand.
Ellice School House
In March, preliminary work began on the planned restoration project to preserve and restore the Ellice School House on Pleasant St. in the Rockville section of Millis. An extensive 3D laser scan was completed of the structure by Steven Wilkes, who volunteered his time and use of specially designed equipment for this purpose. In addition, Steve’s wife Meg, a member of the Historical Commission and a professional archeologist completed a ground penetrating radar survey of the property surrounding the old school house.
Niagara Fire House
Major work was able to continue on the Niagara Fire House having received a grant from the CPA which has allowed the Commission to procure a skilled contractor to complete the work needed on the outside of the building. This includes the repair of the siding, windows, building a handicap ramp and porch as well as relocating windows and a rear entrance with porch. The building will also be repainted in the spring. Currently a new indoor stairway is under construction by students of the Tri County Vocational School in Franklin. Special thanks go to Historical Commission member Marc Prufer and his architectural firm Guzman – Prufer for donating their architectural and design services. Work will also continue in the coming year to restore the interior Engine Room which houses the two nineteenth century “Hand Tubs” known as the “Niagara” and “Peacock”.
Oak Grove Farm House
New paint job completed in spring, color changed to historical correct color, Muted Mulberry with cream trim.
Nathan Maltinsky Chair Marc Prufer
Joanne Gannon, Secretary Mark Slayton
Christina Friskey Charles Vecchi
Jacqueline Graci Fred Waskiewicz
Bonnie McBride Meg Wilkes
