PROPOSAL The Historical Society proposes installing at its new Strafford location a permanent interpretive exhibit to commemorate the 150 years of copperas and copper mining works at South Strafford. There currently does not exist in Strafford any permanent mine exhibit. The proposed exhibit would consist of two large wall panels flanked by two 3-D models, representing the copperas works and the copper mine respectively. (See attached graphics) The townspeople of Stafford have been occupied intensively with the clean up of the Elizabeth Mine site for the last 13 years. The complex issues have created controversy and contention in our small town, and the cleanup itself caused much disruption for ten of those years. The society would like to redirect attention in a positive way to the mine itself, the most significant, long-term contributor to the town’s history. We believe the exhibit would aid the goals of the mine reuse committee in the following ways: As an educational tool with interactive components such as locator LEDs on the displays, the exhibit would provide an optimal teaching/learning experience for children, townspeople and out-of-town visitors. The permanent interpretive exhibit could be the starting point for tours of the mine site, offering an overall view of the mine as it was when in operation, and an understanding of the extensive scope of the underground tunnels. Brochures, maps and trail guides linked to the material in the popular report and the documentary would be available at this installation. By fostering a sense of pride and appreciation for the mine among Strafford townspeople, the exhibit could contribute positively in important ways toward the mine reuse committee’s goals, including land acquisition. The exhibit can be made at a reasonable price and would be very low maintenance once installed. It is, perhaps, the least expensive historic interpretation currently under consideration. This proposal can be implemented quickly. We have consulted with Mat Doyle, a graphic designer with whom we have worked very satisfactorily in the past. Mat is available to design, produce and install the panels and 3-D models by this spring for the Grand Opening of the Historical Society’s new location. (See attached cost estimate and resumé) Alan Donohue Phyl Harmon Stefanie Johnston SHS President Mine Reuse Comm. SHS Curator