Nelson Heritage Steering Committee Meeting
Wednesday, 16 April 2008 at 12:00 noon Hayesville Family Restaurant Minutes

Present were: Hal Farren, Chair; John Bayne, Wanda Jones, Susan Martin, Barbara McClure, Ella Scheuer, Sara Smith, Margie Weathers, Linda Westergard, Tighe White. Guest speaker: Peter Sebert

Chair Hal Farren called the meeting to order at noon.

Next Meeting. Steering Committee members will meet Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at noon at the Hayesville Family Restaurant.

Farren introducted guest speaker Peter Sebert, who described a heritage village project in Brown County, Indiana. Illustrating with slides, Sebert said that his county has been an artists' colony for 100 years and is located near large state parks. Generations ago settlers moved to this part of Indiana from, among other places, North Carolina, a fact which Sebert credits with the Appalachian flavor of the culture.

The Brown County Historical Center in 2007 celebrated its 50th anniversary, and is involved in adding acreage and buildings to its village. Partnering with the BCHC are the library, schools, art gallery, art guild, parks and recreation, while using the entire county as an interpretive center. Sebert said that the questions we who are involved in these projects should ask ourselves are these: "Can we build something worthy of those who were here before us?" and "Who will teach children about history and traditions?"

Concerning economics, Sebert stated that each person who tours his projects spends about $400 for food, lodging and shopping. Tours are geared toward small groups; one particularly successful program involves grandparents with their grandchildren in the touring experience. He said only 15-20% of funding comes from grants.

Question: How long before we in Hayesville can expect to have something ready for visitors?

Answer: Four and ½ years and 45 years.

Question: What was the role of the local officials?

Answer: One commissioner is on the board; the board signed a resolution outlining the long-term vision for the project. The county has stringent zoning rules.

Respectfully submitted, Margie Weathers, Recorder

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