Click on a date to read the minutes listed below.
Schroll down and see the minutes back to 1975.
- November 14, 2019
- October 10, 2019
- September 12, 2019
- July 11, 2019
- June 13, 2019
- May 9, 2019
- April 11, 2019
November 14, 2019
The November meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 12 members present: Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Meg Ellis, Eileen Chesla, Michelle Freudenberger, Mark LeMire, Doris Underwood, Keith Zane, Rick Haines, Stephen Cramer and Sue Shannon. Two guests, Wayne Vogel and Dick Blair, were also in attendance.
The business portion of the meeting was suspended while Wayne Vogel presented what he knew about the wreckage from Capt, Emilio Carranza’s airplane that is in his possession. He showed us two artifacts: a wooden piece and a metal and linen piece.
Old Business
The cleanup at the Pepper House was done on Monday, Oct. 12 with Eileen Chesla, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann and Rick Franzen as volunteers. The Friendship School cleaning will happen at another time.
The Tabernacle Fall Festival was held on Nov. 3. The Franzens and the Silverses manned the booth giving out Tree Lighting flyers and speaking to interested people.
Our new website officially launched in October with many different categories to explore. Neil Wilkinson was the developer of the site, with the material coming from the Society.
New Business
The Pepper House Room Committee has presented a plan to paint the right front bedroom a light cream color with celadon green trim. Carolyn Cuviello, Eileen Chesla and Mary Ann Silvers will make a quilt to fit the Civil War period of the room. The Cuviellos donated a box spring for the room and Eileen Chesla will sew curtains.
The 2020 budget was presented by the Budget Committee (Rick Franzen, Glen Petrauski and Mary Ann Silvers) and discussed by the members.
President Franzen brought up the possibility of doing road cleanup in Tabernacle to raise funds. Both Zimmerman and Bozarthtown Roads are available. Each time we clean a road the Society gets $200. We will start with Zimmerman Road before the holidays. If that goes well, we can clean the road twice in 2020 and possibly do Bozarthtown Road once or twice as well. This project compares favorably to the Strawberry Social in terms of time and energy required and funds generated. The Franzens, Silverses, Cuviellos, Michelle Freudenberger, Doris Underwood and Joe Barton all said they would be interested in helping with the road cleanup.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25. The next meeting will be a social/meeting on December 12 at the home of Mary Ann and Harry Silvers. An invitation will be sent to all members. The next regular meeting of the Society will be on March 12, 2020.
Respectfully submitted by
Ann Franzen
Secretary
October 10, 2019
The October meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 9 members present: Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Meg Ellis, Eileen Chesla, Bill Sprague, Glen Petrauski and Sue Shannon. Five guests, Neil Wilkinson, Janet Mozitis, Megan Mozitis and Marty Mozitis, were also in attendance.
Old Business
The Semi-annual cleanup of the historic buildings was scheduled for October 21 and 22, and members were asked to volunteer.
President Franzen reported on the establishment of our Tabernacle Historical Society website. The website is about to launch and the Society is grateful to Neil Wilkinson for his expertise and guidance. The site will have historic photos and information about the Civil War veterans buried in the old cemetery. More information and features will be added in the future.
Rick also explained about the historic sites self driving tour he has been working on with Harry Silvers. They are adding more site descriptions as well as more accurate driving directions to make the tour more user-friendly than before
Mary Ann Silvers and Eileen Chesla have volunteered to start planning the decoration of the Pepper House rooms. They will pick a room, set a time period to represent, chose paint colors and then complete with furniture and accessories.
Our President attended a recent meeting of the Indian Mills Historical Society and reported that both societies have much in common and can prosper by cooperating and sharing resources.
Dues for 2020 were collected, as they will be throughout the year.
New Business
Program Chair, Sue Shannon, introduced our speaker for the evening. Tony McNichol, the Archaeologist and Cultural Resources Planner for the Pinelands Commission presented a fascinating program on the Brotherton Reservation. He discussed the 1758 establishment (and subsequent dissolution) of the Brotherton Reservation in socio-historical context with reference to the French and Indian War as well as the Walking Purchase and the Treaty of Easton.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:05. The next meeting will be on November 14. There will be a short presentation by Wayne Vogel who will show some of the wreckage that was found from Emilio Carranza’s plane crash in Tabernacle in 1928.
Respectfully submitted by
Ann Franzen
Secretary
September 12, 2019
The September meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 10 members present: Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Meg Ellis, Eileen Chesla, Peggy Pitney, Rick Franzen, Glen Petrauski and Sue Shannon. Two guests, Neil Wilkinson and Suzanne Buckley, were also in attendance.
Installation of New Officers
New officers were sworn in for the term of 2019-2022: President, Rick Franzen; Vice-President, Mary Ann Silvers; Treasurer, Mary Ann Silvers and Secretary, Ann Franzen. President Rick Franzen thanked Harry Silvers for his service as Treasurer and reviewed Mary Ann’s many accomplishments as President. Mary Ann was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a Certificate of Appreciation. Harry was also presented with a certificate and a boutonniere. Rick then outlined his goals for the Society going forward.
Old Business
Mary Ann reported on the success of the recent Chicken Barbecue. The Society and our partners, Tabernacle Rescue Squad, each made a profit of $2,128.06 after serving 423 dinners.
Glen Petrauski and Ann Franzen and were thanked for manning the Friendship School during the “Passport to History” Open Houses this year.
The semi-annual cleaning of the Pepper House and Friendship School was scheduled for October 21 at 9:30 AM with an additional date of Oct. 22 if required.
New Business
Dues for 2020 were collected, as they will be throughout the year.
A motion was made by Glen Petauski and seconded by Sue Shannon to reimburse Ann Franzen for $25.99 for a new photo album for the Society. It passed by voice vote.
President Franzen explained about the work being done to launch a website for THS with the help of Neil Wilkinson of the Indian Mills Historical Society. Neil offered to give access to members of the Society to the webpage under construction for the purpose of giving feedback and suggestions. The site will include information, photos and links to documents such as the oral histories that have been collected over the years.
Rick reported on the work he, Harry and Mary Ann are doing to update and improve the auto tour of our historic sites. Better descriptions and directions (including GPS coordinates) will be included. Some historic markers are missing, some are missing township stickers and some additional sites may need to be marked as well.
Committee assignments for the year were reviewed and volunteers thanked. Additional help will be needed on some assignments.
Buildings and Grounds – Harry Silvers, Cemetery Sextant – Keith Zane, Budget – Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and one other member-in-good-standing, Historian – Mary Ann Silvers, Historical Site Committee – Rick Franzen, Harry Silvers and one or two others, Librarian – Mary Ann Silvers, Membership – Ann Franzen and one other, Museum – Ann Franzen and one other, Programs – Sue Shannon, Refreshments – Meg Ellis and Publicity – Ann Franzen.
After listing the goals Mary Ann Silvers had enumerated for the Society in the past, Rick discussed the future directions for the Society. Among the topics outlined and discussed were: documentation of the dairy and poultry farms, the facebook page, networking with our neighboring historical societies, meeting with Township and School District officials regarding space needs, roadside trash pick-up, our Scholarship Fund, designating the time periods for rooms in the Pepper House, a newsletter and transcribing oral histories.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35. Refreshments were served, including a special cake in Mary Ann’s honor. The next meeting will be on October 10 when we will have a speaker, Tony McNicholl of the Pinelands Commission, on the history of Brotherton Reservation.
Respectfully submitted by
Ann Franzen
Secretary
July 11, 2019
The July meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 9 members present: Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Meg Ellis, Betty Orme, Bill Sprague, Michele Freudenberger and Doris Underwood.
Old Business
The Charities Registration has been completed and we are in compliance with the State of New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs. A check was sent in the amount of $330 to cover the years 2010-2015.
The annual Chicken Barbecue in partnership with theTabernacle Rescue Squad will be held on July 20 from 1 to 6 PM at the Community Center. Unsold tickets need to be returned to Mary Ann so they can be sold at the door. Betty Orme, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, Eileen Haines, Midge Hangley, Carol Touchton, Donna Wallen and Sharon Grovatt have volunteered to make potato salad. Michael’s Event Catering will again provide the cole slaw at no charge. Peggy Pitney, Eileen Chesla, Glen Petrauski, Bill Sprague, Carolyn Cuviello, Barbara Toms, Sue Shannon, Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and Betty Orme will be baking desserts. Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Keith Zane, Eileen Chesla, Carolyn Cuviello and Glen Petrauski also volunteered to work during the event. We will need to bring some of the potato salad on Friday night in order to package it for take-out orders in advance.
New Business
Letters of thanks were sent to Corky and Laurie Lowe for their gift of an antique yarn winder and a Conestoga wagon jack; to Betsy Piner for her check of $100, to Wilma Davison for her check of $100 and to Janice and Joe Rubino for a box of vintage toiletries, books, bottles and other items.
Rick Franzen and Jim Cuviello moved the loom from the kitchen to the left bedroom in preparation for acquiring a wood burning cook stove and a dry sink.
The Corporation Annual Report filing has been completed. Rick Franzen made a motion to reimburse Mary Ann Silvers for the $33 she paid on our behalf. Meg Ellis seconded and the motion was approved.
Mary Ann thanked the Society for our support during her tenure as President. She reviewed the accomplishments of the last few years including painting and new roofs on the Pepper House and the Friendship School, new windows at the Pepper House, new siding on the Cemetery Buildings and much more.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:05. As there is no meeting in August, the next meeting will be on September 12 when we will have the induction of new officers.
Respectfully submitted by
Ann Franzen
Secretary
June 13, 2019
The June meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 13 members present: Peggy Pitney, Keith Zane, Carolyn Cuviello, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Barbara Toms, Meg Ellis, Bill Sprague, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon and Glen Petauski. In addition, there were 5 guests: Michele Freudenberger, Doris Underwood, Penney Haines, Bob Ritter and Carol Ritter.
Old Business
Elections were held at the May meeting. The new officers will be: Rick Franzen, President; Mary Ann Silvers, VP and Treasurer; Ann Franzen, Secretary. They will assume their new roles at the September meeting.
The 3rd Grade Tour was held on Monday, May 20 from 9 AM to 12:30 PM. All went well. Each class was presented THS commemorative bookmarks and pencils. The cost of $99.02 was re-imbursed to Mary Ann Silvers who made the payment.
The Memorial Day Parade occurred on May 25. Betty Orme presented the THS flowers, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen and Peg Pitney manned the table at the Pepper House and gave tours. Rick Franzen filled in as emcee for the event.
The Strawberry Social of June 8 was a success. We brought in $717 and paid $180 for the strawberries. Profit was $537 – enough to finance our scholarship.
More trench and stone work was done at the Pepper House by Keith Zane and his crew of teenage volunteers. Keith was also thanked for the work he and his son, Nathaniel, did in placing new Township logo seals on the THS historical signs around town.
Ann Franzen was re-imbursed for the $56.57 she spent on curtain rods and shades for the first floor of the Pepper House. A motion for this was made by Eileen Chesla, seconded by Barbara Toms and approved by a voice vote.
Mary Ann completed the very complicated Charities Registration online. Fees of $30 and $55 were paid by Mary Ann. A reimbursement motion was made by Sue Shannon, seconded by Bill Sprague and passed by voice vote. In order to be in compliance with the state, FY 2010-2015 forms will also need to be filed.
New Business
The annual Chicken Barbecue in conjunction with Tabernacle Rescue Squad will be held on Saturday, July 20 from 1 to 6 PM at the Community Center. The tickets, priced at $15 each, were distributed to the members to sell. Un-sold tickets are to be returned to Mary Ann to be available for sale at the door. Volunteers are needed to make potato salad, bake desserts andwork on the day of the event.
Keith Zane said that he is exploring with the Methodist Church the possibility of using their facilities next year for the Barbecue and the Strawberry Social.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30. A presentation followed by Marisa Bozarth on “Agriculture in the Pine Barrens”. The next meeting will be on July 11. Refreshments followed the meeting.
Respectfully submitted by
Ann Franzen
Secretary
May 9, 2019
The May meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 16 members present: Peggy Pitney, Keith Zane, Carolyn Cuviello, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Barbara Toms, Meg Ellis, Betty Orme, Carol Touchton, Bill Sprague, Ralph Shrom, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon and Judy Witowski-Argentine.
Old Business
Paper ballot elections for officers were conducted by Bill Sprague. Elected were: Rick Franzen, President; Mary Ann Silvers, Vice-President; Mary Ann Silvers, Treasurer and Ann Franzen, Secretary.
Update on Pepper House renovations: The exterior has been painted light gray by Revive Painting who also painted the exterior trim of the new windows. The inside window trim will be done soon, and we are waiting for the three outside doors to be replaced.
A check for $500 has been sent to the Seneca Scholarship fund to be awarded to a graduating senior interested in college studies of history, government or education.
The Friendship School will once again be open each 1st Saturday this Summer as part of the Burlington County Passport Program. Ann Franzen, Glen Petrauski and Mary Ann Silvers will be taking some of these dates.
New Business
The annual Memorial Day Parade will be held on May 25, 2019. Ann Franzen suggested that we use Harry Silvers’ truck as a float this year. She, Carolyn Cuviello and Eileen Chesla will decorate it.
The Strawberry Social will be held on June 8 at the Community Center. Various tasks were assigned. Keith Zane volunteered to bring water, ice tea, hot dogs and rolls. Lots of volunteers are needed to cut up strawberries, bake cakes and help during the event.
The annual Chicken Barbecue will again be in July. The date will be determined later, but July 20th is a possibility.
The committees outlined in the by-laws were discussed and members were urged to volunteer for one or more of them.
Rick Franzen asked about the wreath presentation at the parade. It was decided that Betty Orme would do the honors on our behalf.
Keith Zane reported that he and his student-volunteers will be cleaning and resetting some of the tombstones in the Cemetery. He also said that Nathaniel Zane will be placing new Township seals on the historic markers around town and may also work on creating a video/power point presentation on Tabernacle History.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30. The next meeting will be on June 13 when we will have a presentation on farming in the Pine Barrens by Marisa Bozarth.
Respectfully submitted by
Ann Franzen
Secretary
April 11, 2019
The April meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 14 members present: Peggy Pitney, Stephen Cramer, Keith Zane, Carolyn Cuviello, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Barbara Toms, Meg Ellis, James Cuviello, Eileen Chesla, Bill Sprague and Sue Shannon.
Old Business
The Dine and Donate Night at Upper Crust generated a profit of $125.00.
Work was done by the ROTC and the Boy Scouts under the direction of Keith Zane. They are clearing out the overgrowth of brush and trimming the trees along the left side of the cemetery. They are also replacing the broken fence posts and rails on the same side and will continue on other dates.
The same volunteers have trenched around parts of the Pepper House foundation and filled the trenches with stone that had been provided by the township.
The Cuviellos, Barbara Toms, Mary Ann Silvers and the Franzens cleaned out and re-organized the two Cemetery buildings.
Spring Clean Up dates have been set for April 29 and 30 in order to be ready for the Third Grade Tour. The tour will take place on May 13 with a rain date of May 20. Volunteers are needed for both the clean-up and the tour.
Nominations were announced for new officers. They are: President – Rick Franzen, Vic-President –Mary Ann Silvers, Secretary-Ann Franzen and Treasurer-Mary Ann Silvers. Elections will be held at the May meeting and anyone else who would like to be an officer can still be placed on the ballot by contacting Mary Ann Silvers.
New Business
Keith Zane made a motion to designate $500 for a scholarship to a Seneca graduating senior. The motion was seconded by Meg Ellis and approved by voice vote.
Page 2
There was a discussion about a fundraiser to be held at our Cemetery that would dramatize the lives of some of the residents buried there. A committee has been formed to plan this event. Keith Zane, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and Stephen Cramer volunteered for this project.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM. The next meeting will take place on May 9. Betty Orme volunteered to bring refreshments.
A program followed the meeting. It was a presentation on Vincentown History presented by the President of Southampton Historical Society, Bob Ritter with his wife, Carol.
Respectfully submitted by
Ann Franzen
Secretary
March 14, 2019
The March meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 9 members present: Peggy Pitney, Ralph Shrom, Sue Shannon, Stephen Cramer, Keith Zane, Nathaniel Zane, Carolyn
Cuviello, Mary Ann Silvers and Harry Silvers.
The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance in the regular checking account of $15,096.02, income was $200.00, debits were $1,364.00, for an ending balance of $13,932.02.
The Cemetery Savings Account has a balance of $6,472.37 after the addition of $5.31 in interest and the Cemetery checking account has an end balance of $120.94 after a deposit of $1.00 to keep account active. The Treasurer’s report was approved by Ralph Strom and seconded by Keith Zane.
Old Business
It was reported that the Pepper House windows have not been painted.
The budget was reviewed by all and approved by Keith Zane, seconded by Ralph Shrom.
New Business
Insurance was paid to Franklin Mutual Insurance Company on March 4, 2019 in the amount of $1,364.00. Due to Franklin’s format changes, THS went from Commercial to Business designation. Due to a 2% increase in policy building valuation, the Pepper House went from $29,300 to $30,200; the Tabernacle Cemetery went from $41,400 to $43,000 and the School went from $65,800 to $68,000. The payment stayed the same. Mary Ann Silvers will be questioning the change in status and what this means.
Federal Income Tax was filed for our exempt organization via 990-N form outline
The Community Center Facilities were approved for our use by Town Hall.
Dine and Donate Night at Upper Crust will take place on March 20th from 4-8 PM. We will be receiving 15% from each bill. Coupons were given out to be used that night.
A nominating committee is needed to present a slate of officers for the April meeting. No one offered to take on this position. It was suggested that a special email be sent out to request candidates for the position of President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Voting will take place in May.
The budget was reviewed and approved by Keith Zane and seconded by Ralph Shrom.
A lengthy discussion took place regarding the campaign to save Tabernacle’s Sequoia High School. Mary Ann Silvers wrote a letter to the School Board President and the Superintendent of Schools asking to save the school. This building would be a welcomed addition for community use and for town business. Keith Zane suggested a Non Profit should be formed to manage the building, but first there would need to be a plan to determine how this could be accomplished.
Mary Ann wrote another letter to Mayor Joe Barton expressing the Society’s concerns and goals both immediate and long range. Short term goals should be done this spring and summer. Our main concern is the cost of insurance. Most of the goals moving forward have to deal with the maintenance of the Pepper House and the School.
Nathaniel Zane, Keith’s son, will be working on the Cemetery grounds as part of his Boy Scout service project. A clean-up was suggested for the week of April 8th, but it would depend on what else would need to be done after Nathaniel finishes his project.
A request was made to have any pictures, books, newspaper articles, documents, or anything of historical value brought to the attention of the Historical Society. A suggestion was made to have the Tabernacle Sun run our notice asking people to bring these items to a specific location on a designated day where the items would be scanned and given back immediately. Ralph Shrom will write the notice.
The Society is looking for an iron wood-burning stove, a dry sink with cabinet base, all authentic to the late 1800’s or early 1900’s. Also painters are needed to prep and paint the walls and woodwork in the Pepper House.
Finally, Stephen Cramer, a 6th & 7th grade teacher, presented his ideas for involving his students in a cemetery project. He presented some of his objective which would be to encourage student research, introduce students to the study of genealogy, and give them an opportunity to become familiar with Tabernacle history. It would involve researching the people buried in the cemetery and developing a plan to clean and refurbish the gravesites in an appropriate manner. Keith Zane pointed out that the Boy Scouts have an approved formula for cleaning tombstones. It was also pointed out that it would be a great way to further the students’ understanding of the Tabernacle history that was initially presented during the 3rd Grade Tour.
The next meeting will take place on April 11.
The program will feature Vincentown History presented by the President of
Southampton Historical Society, Bob Ritter with his wife, Carol.
Adjournment at 8:34 PM.
Respectfully submitted by
Carolyn Cuviello, substitute for Ann Franzen, Secretary
November 8, 2018
The November meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:36 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 6 members present: Ann Franzen, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers and Peggy Pitney.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
OLD BUSINESS
Harry Silvers reported that the Pepper House windows are scheduled to be painted in October or November. The old windows were sold to Sherrie Pepper for $250. The cellar steps are still pending completion and the cleaning of the new window trim needs to be done before the cold weather begins.
Aubrey Silvers cleaned the Friendship School on October 6 earning 2 community service hours.
We received $170 from our October 18 Dine and Donate Event at Upper Crust.
Keith Zane performed some maintenance on the Tabernacle Cemetery replacing rails and surveying what else needs to be done. We received a complaint about grave markers sinking from Gladys Myers. Keith will investigate.
The Society was represented at the Community Fall Festival by Rick and Ann Franzen, Carolyn Cuviello, Pat Lampi and Mary Ann and Harry Silvers. The Tree Lighting Event was also promoted at the same time.
The Christmas in the Pines House Tour will not be held this year due to a lack of participating houses.
NEW BUSINESS
The 2019 Budget (attached) was presented to the membership for its first reading.
The December Meeting/Social will be held at the Franzens’ house on December 13 at 7:30 PM. Members will be sent a written invitation and will be asked to bring either an appetizer or a dessert.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 PM. A presentation followed by Marisa Bozarth on the History of Smithville
The next regular meeting will be held on March 14 at 7:30 PM at the Community Center.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
September 13, 2018
The September meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 8 members present: Glen Petrauski, Ann Franzen, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers and Ralph Shrom. We also had a guest with us – Barbara Bickel.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
OLD BUSINESS
The window replacements at the Pepper House have been completed. The Township will be paying Newcomb Construction Company for 14 of the windows and the Society paid for the other two. Harry Silvers and Rick Franzen will inspect the building, doors and windows every five years to insure proper maintenance.
Sue Shannon was thanked for representing us and presenting flowers at the Carranza Memorial Ceremony on July 14.
The Chicken Barbecue was a big success again this year. It was held on July 21 from 1 to 6 PM in partnership with the Tabernacle Rescue Squad. We served 450 people and earned a profit of $1662.63. In contrast, in 2017 we served 398 people and showed a profit of $1455.37.
Mary Ann Silvers held the last Open House of the year at the Friendship School on September 1. This was in conjunction with the Burlington County Passport Program. Seven people attended on that day.
NEW BUSINESS
The New Jersey Corporate Filing was completed before the deadline of August 31. Eileen Chesla made a motion to reimburse Mary Ann for the $27.50 filing fee. Glen Petrauski seconded the motion and it was approved by voice vote.
The President reported that she has finished the Society scrapbook for January 2016 through September 2017 and is currently working on the segment covering October 2017 to the present.
The Tabernacle Fall Festival will be held at Seneca High School on October 28. We will distribute information and sell our merchandise. Volunteers are needed to man our table.
The bank has informed us that we need to make a small deposit every 6 months into the Cemetery Checking Account or to keep our balance at $1,000 to avoid a $5 charge every month for inactivity. It was decided that we will make a minimal deposit in 6 months which will be March 2019.
A Fall cleaning day was discussed for the Pepper House, but we will wait until after the windows are painted to do this work. Cleaning at the Friendship School will be done by Aubrey Silvers who has volunteered to fulfill a commitment to community service. Her grandmother, Mary Ann, will supervise her.
A Dine and Donate event will be held soon, the date is to be determined and announced at our next meeting.
Midge Hangley will be contacted to determine if we will be having the Christmas House Tour again this year. If we do it, we will need homes to be opened for the tour.
A discussion ensued about whether to continue reading the minutes of the previous meeting aloud or to print them out so that members can read them before the meeting and comment if they see an issue. Glen Petrauski suggested that we try printing them for the members until the end of the calendar year and then reconsider the issue. We will continue reading the Treasurer’s report as usual for the time being. The schedule of meetings was also reviewed. We will maintain the present schedule for now.
Ralph Shrom suggested that those who attend the Historians Roundtable share their successful fund raising ideas so that each organization can explore new ways to generate income.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35. The next meeting will be on October 11 at 7:30 at the Community Center.
After the meeting Rick Franzen presented an update on his extensive research into the burials at the Tabernacle Cemetery.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
July 12, 2018
The July meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:45 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 11 members present: Ann Franzen, Eileen Chesla, Barbara Toms, Sue Shannon, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Betty Orme, Eileen Haines, Rickey Haines and Meg Ellis.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
OLD BUSINESS
We have received no update from the Township on the status of the window replacement project.
At the cemetery buildings, the broken parts of the vinyl siding have been replaced at no cost to us and the missing window pane was re-attached.
There has been a change in the Passport Program Open House at the Friendship School. Glen Petrauski will man the building on July 7, and Ann Franzen will take August 4.
Sue Shannon will present the wreath on behalf of the Society at the Carranza Memorial Ceremony on July 14.
The Chicken Barbecue will be held on July 21 from 1 to 6 PM. Workers are needed throughout the day as well as volunteers to provide potato salad and desserts. Michael’s Event Catering will provide the coleslaw for us at no charge.
NEW BUSINESS
B.J. Harrison, a CPA, prepared the NJ CRI-200 filing for 2017 as requested by the Attorney General of the State of New Jersey, Consumer Affairs. This annual filing came with a $30 fee. A motion was made by Betty Orme and seconded by Sue Shannon to reimburse the President for this expense.
Another motion was made by Sue Shannon and seconded by Barbara Toms to pay the CPA’s bill of $250.
A discussion followed on several topics: reducing the number of meetings, dispensing with the reading of the minutes/Treasurer’s Report and the election of new officers next year. All topics were held over for future consideration.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25. The next meeting will be on July 12 at 7:30 at the Community Center. Sue Shannon volunteered to provide refreshments.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
June 14, 2018
The June meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 12 members present: Ann Franzen, Ralph Shrom, Bill Sprague, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Rita Moonsammy, Midge Hangley, Betty Orme and Keith Zane. Also in attendance were 2 guests: Jess Hamilton and Marci Hamilton.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Correspondence was read from Jessica Hamilton thanking the Society for the Scholarship she received from us.
OLD BUSINESS
A scholarship sponsored by the Historical Society was recently awarded to Seneca senior Jessica Hamilton, who will begin her college career at the University of Delaware studying music education. Jessica was present at the meeting. She gave a brief speech thanking us and giving us her background. She then entertained the group by playing two classical pieces on her flute.
Peg Pitney, Barbara Toms, Mary Ann and Harry Silvers were at the Pepper House during the Memorial Day Parade. They gave tours and sold merchandise. One schoolhouse ornament was sold and $37 was collected in donations. Mary Ann Silvers presented the wreath at Town Hall on behalf of the Society.
The Strawberry Social was held on June 24, 2018 at the Community Center. THS made a profit of $712. We served 91 servings of cake, 40 hot dogs and 44 drinks.
Thanks to all who worked at the event or donated food. An accounting sheet for the Social was presented. We will need to restock our paper goods.
Keith Zane made a motion to transfer $102 in donations received at the Strawberry Social to the Cemetery Fund. The motion was seconded by Ralph Shrom and approved by the members.
The Friendship School will be open one Saturday a month from 10 AM to 1 PM. Glen Petrauski hosted the June 2 event and Ann Franzen will be there on July 7. Volunteers are still needed for August 4 and September 1.
The membership approved a motion made by Keith Zane and seconded by Ralph Shrom to donate $50 to the Salvation Army in member of Washington Orme who recently passed away.
NEW BUSINESS
The Chicken Barbecue, held in conjunction with the Tabernacle Rescue Squad, will be on July 21 from 1 to 6 PM. Each member was given a set of 10 tickets to sell. It is hoped that all tickets will be sold. Any unsold tickets must be returned to Mary Ann and a final count is needed by July 20. We need a total of 90 pounds of potato salad donated as well as many desserts. Workers will be needed the day of the event.
Burlington County will be publishing a Cultural and Heritage Magazine. Keith Zane made a motion to place a 3.5 x 2.25 ad from the Historical Society. Ralph Shrom seconded the motion and it was approved. We may also send historical photos to be included in the magazine.
There was a discussion about advertising our meetings through our Facebook page. Another discussion was about presenting a wreath from THS at the Carranza Day Memorial Service. Sue Shannon said that she would present the wreath on our behalf. Keith Zane displayed a commemorative coin that the Rescue Squad is selling to mark its 65th Anniversary. They are $5 each.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15. Bill Sprague was the featured speaker, presenting a program on the history of his Tuckerton Road home, a former stage coach stop.
The next meeting will be on July 12 at 7:30 at the Community Center.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
May 10, 2018
The May meeting has held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:43 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 7 members present: Judy Argentine, Sue Shannon, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Carolyn Cuviello, Peg Pitney, and Midge Hangley,
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Sue Shannon made the motion and it was seconded by Midge Hangley.
OLD BUSINESS
The Pepper House replacements and repairs are moving along. The estimates for new windows are in and we are now waiting for Doug’s approval and go ahead. The town will pay for 14 windows and the THS will pay for 2 windows. The township will also pay for the painting of the new windows. The two attic windows will remain the same. Also, Tom Boyd, Construction Official, and Doug Cramer, Township Administrator, made the stringers for the new cellar steps which will need to be installed.
The Third Grade tour was very successful. Special thanks goes to Ann Franzen, Sherri Reinhardt, Bev Gibson, Eileen Chesla, Jim and Carolyn Cuviello, Mary Ann Silvers, Barbara Toms, Rick Franzen and Natalie Lewis. Pencils and bookmarks were given out to the students.
The Seneca Scholarship of $500 was sent to Grace McCluskey, Scholarship Coordinator, on April 17, 2018 for the May 23 Awards Ceremony.
Dine and Donate Nite was also successful, netting a profit of $185. A big thank you goes out to all who came out for dinner.
The Friendship Schoolhouse was open on Saturday, May 5th from 10 am to 1 pm as part of the Burlington County Passport Program. We had a total of 8 visitors. We will be getting our own stamp and passports from Marisa Bozarth, “County Historian”. The program will also take place on June 2nd with Glen Petrauski hosting, July 7th with Ann Franzen, August 4th and September 1st. Hosts are needed for August and September.
The THS is seeking a cemetery supervisor who will oversee the grounds and building (clean-ups, hiring workers where necessary, care of fencing, creation of a job description, etc). There is some concern about the dogs in an adjacent property which give the appearance of a threat. It was suggested that we speak to maintenance about any concerns they may have about this and possibly ask the owners to keep the dogs inside when any work is being done by our members.
The Memorial Day Parade will take place on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 10 am beginning at Seneca H.S. and ending at Town Hall. Peg Pitney volunteered to help sell at the Pepper House. Mary Ann Silvers will be at the Pepper House for tours.
NEW BUSINESS
With the passing of Washington Orme, the THS would like to send a $50 donation to either the Salvation Army or The United Methodist Church, Capital Fund, in his memory. This had to be tabled until the next meeting because we did not have a quorum.
The Strawberry Social will be held on Saturday, June 2nd from 2-5 pm at the Tabernacle Community Center. 6 flats of strawberries were ordered from Russo’s. An advertising sign application was sent to LaShawn Barber via email. The following members offered to prepare strawberries that will be delivered to them on the morning of June 1st: Midge Hangley, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, and Carolyn Cuviello. A cake and whipped cream sign-up was available to include the following varieties of cake: shortcakes, angel food, yellow, white, chocolate, and brownies. Keith Zane will be donating hot dogs, rolls, and water for which the THS is very grateful. Members were encouraged to bring coolers and utensils (cake cutters, knives, pancake turners, etc). There was discussion about the possibility of moving the social back to Town Hall if participation by the community was down. Also because of the lack of visibility of the Community Center from the highway, it was suggested that there be some kind of advertising at the corner of Route 206 and Hawkin Road. If it works out, there might be a possibility of constructing a piece of Strawberry Shortcake using a box as the cake, a white garbage bag as the whipped cream and paper plates as the cut strawberries. This will all be contingent on getting the right materials.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15
Midge Hangley was the featured speaker, presenting a program about her ancestry dating back to the Mayflower and the journey she took to find the information that led to her acceptance as a member of the society of Mayflower descendents.
Respectfully submitted,
Carolyn Cuviello
April 12, 2018
The April meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 15 members present: Ann Franzen, Ralph Shrom, Bill Sprague, Judy Witowski-Argentine, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Harry Worrell, Carolyn Cuviello, Jim Cuviello, Glen D. Petrauski, Allen Rowles, Keith Zane and Terri Zane. Also in attendance were 4 guests: Kim Starr, Kevin Starr, Wendy Reilly and Patrick Reilly.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Ralph Shrom made the motion and it was seconded by Allen Rowles . Correspondence was read from Harry Worrell thanking the Society for the donation in memory of his deceased wife Flossie Worrell. from cub scouts thanking us for a tour, and from a group announcing a History Fair in May.
OLD BUSINESS
A report was given on the “Christmas In The Pines” House Tour held in December. Sales of 45 tickets and a donation resulted in an income of $1,030.00. Expenditures (two newspaper ads) cost $345.00. The profit for the event was $685.00. Each homeowner who participated in the tour was given a Historic Society afghan as a thank you. Chairperson Midge Hangley did not accept any re-imbursement for the printing of the tickets, nor did Mary Ann and Harry Silvers take any money for the printing of signs, posters and flyers. It was suggested that these expenses be budgeted for if the event continues in the future.
The December meeting/Social was held at the Silvers’ home on December 14. Twenty-two members attended. They enjoyed the food and conversation as they listened to the President’s Annual Report. The report was placed in a binder which is on display at this meeting.
The Township Committee of Tabernacle has approved up to $17,600 to replace windows at the Knight-Pepper House. The work will be done in stages, and may take 2 or 3 years to complete.
Mary Ann and Harry Silvers and Rick Franzen discussed the project with Doug Cramer, and are seeking estimates for the work.
Plastering work is also needed on the 3rd floor of the house. The job is estimated to cost $1,130.00. After some discussion, it was decided to postpone the plastering until after the window project is concluded. Another discussion centered on the cellar steps at the Pepper House. We believe that the maintenance workers of the Township will be building the new steps, but no timeline has been stated as yet.
NEW BUSINESS
The 990-N filing to IRS for the calendar year 2017 was done on Jan. 19, 2018.
Insurance for 2018 has been paid in full on March 26. The total was $1,364.00.
The Annual financial reports for both the Society and the Cemetery Fund were filed, read by the Treasurer and available for inspection in the binder.
The Annual Budget for next year was presented. It had been prepared by a committee consisting of Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers and Ralph Shrom. There was some discussion about reimbursing the President for out of pocket expenses. It was also suggested that we budget in future for document conservation. The first step would be contacting experts to learn the process and costs involved. Approval for the budget was moved by Glen Petrauski, seconded by Keith Zane and granted by voice vote.
The Cemetery grounds and buildings were cleaned up and re-organized on March 27 by Barbara Toms, Ann & Rick Franzen, Carolyn & Jim Cuviello and Mary Ann & Harry Silvers. The President suggested that a Cemetery Supervisor be appointed to oversee the grounds and buildings. A volunteer would be needed.
Spring cleanup dates were announced for the Pepper House (April 23) and the Friendship School (April 25). Volunteers are requested.
The Third Grade Tour will take place on May 2 (rain date May 11). Volunteers are lined up for all four locations on both dates, but additional help is always welcome. Approval was sought and granted for the purchase of 144 THS pencils to be given to the students. Judy Argentine made the motion to allocate $53.49 for this purpose. Allen Rowles seconded and the membership affirmed by voice vote.
Jim Cuviello made a motion to provide a $500 scholarship for a Seneca senior from Tabernacle interested in studying history, education or government. Carolyn Cuviello seconded, and the motion was approved by the members.
A volunteer is needed to attend the Historians’ Roundtable on April 14 at Crosswicks. Glen Petrauski said he would be available.
There will be a Dine and Donate Fundraiser at Upper Crust on April 23 from 4 to 8 PM. The Society will receive 15% of the bill if our coupon is presented.
The Memorial Day Parade is coming up. Mary Ann will take care of the presentation wreath. She suggested that we create a float for the parade or have marchers and asked the members to give some thought to this project.
The Society will participate in the Burlington County Passport Program again this year. Volunteers are needed at the Friendship School on the first Saturdays from May through September. Mary Ann Silvers will take May 5, Glen Petrauski – June 5, and Ann Franzen – July 7. August 4 and September 7 are still available.
We were asked by the County to update the 1975 Inventory and Survey Of Historic Properties in our Township. This was completed by Rick Franzen, Rickey Haines, Harry Worrell, Harry Silvers and Mary Ann Silvers and forwarded to Marissa Bozarth at the end of March.
We were invited to participate in a South Jersey History Fair to be held in Glendora on May 19. We will send brochures to be exhibited with others from the County.
It was suggested that we become a beneficiary of Smile.Amazon.com. We would get .05 percentage of purchases made using our name. We will try this out and have proceeds go to our Cemetery Checking Account.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35. Rick Franzen was the featured speaker, presenting a program “Dating Tabernacle Cemetery Burials”.
The next meeting will be on May 10 at 7:30 at the Community Center. Mary Ann Silvers volunteered to bring refreshments.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
November 9, 2017
The November meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 16 members present: Ann Franzen, Ralph Shrom, Peggy Pitney, Bill Sprague, Judy Argentine, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon, Rickey Haines, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Harry Worrell, Carolyn Cuviello, Eileen Haines, Midge Hangley and Jackie Krantz. Also in attendance were 11 guests: Geraldine Brennan, Irving Fisher, Judy Gannet, Hope Pepper, Harold Conner, Grace Conner, Christin Schwartz, LeNor Moore-LeDoux, Susie Downing, Matt Downing and Linwood Gerber.
The meeting was adjourned temporarily so that the speaker, Millicent Moore could present her program on “The History of the Moore Family”. After the presentation and a short break for refreshments, the meeting was resumed at 9:05 PM.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Ralph Shrom made the motion and Rickey Haines seconded it. Correspondence was read from the United Methodist Church thanking the Society for donations in memory of deceased members Flossie Worrell and Betty Gerber. The family of Betty Gerber also thanked us for the same donation in Betty’s memory. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $15,207.24. Deposits totaled $208.82 , while debits were $484.00. The ending balance was $14,932.06.
OLD BUSINESS
The Dine and Donate Night at Upper Crust resulted in a profit of $150. All who participated were thanked for their support.
Boxes were relocated from the 2nd to 3rd floors of the Pepper House. Many volunteers made short work of the job.
Other work days were scheduled and volunteers solicited. The Pepper House will be cleaned on Nov. 15 and the Friendship School on November 16. Volunteers included Mary Ann Silvers, Barbara Toms, Ann Franzen, Peg Pitney and Rick Franzen.The Pepper House will be decorated for Christmas on November 29 and 30. Those volunteering were Eileen Chesla, Carolyn Cuviello, Midge Hangley, Mary Ann Silvers and Jackie Krantz.
The “Christmas In the Pines” House Tour will occur on Dec. 9. Midge Hangley reported on the houses involved as well as the luncheon provided by the Church of Christ. She reviewed the schedule of events and the volunteers involved. Press Releases were sent to area newspapers to run for as many as 5 weeks before the event. In addition, color ads were placed in the Pine Barrens Tribune to run for 2 weeks. Eileen Chesla made a motion to allocate funds from the dine and Donate profits and from the general funds to pay for the $225 cost of the ads. Jackie Krantz seconded the motion, and it passed by voice vote.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:30. The next meeting will be a social on December 14 at the home of Mary Ann and Harry Silvers. As is customary, no meetings will be held in January or February.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
October 12, 2017
The October meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 17 members present: Ann Franzen, Ralph Shrom, Peggy Pitney, Bill Sprague, Barbara Toms, Judy Argentine, Eileen Chesla, Betty Orme, Sue Shannon, Rickey Haines, Rick Franzen, Rita Moonsammy, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Harry Worrell, Dee Collins and Jackie Krantz. Also in attendance were 7 guests: Dave Newcomb, Brenda Coles, Bette White, Dick Haines, Kathy D’Imperio, Robert D’Imperio and Wendy Reilley.
The meeting was adjourned temporarily so that the speaker, Barbara Solem could present her program on “The Ghost Towns of the Pine Barrens”. After the presentation and a short break for refreshments, the meeting was resumed at 8:40 PM.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $15,153.50. Deposits totaled $53.74 , while debits were $0. The ending balance was $15,207.24.
OLD BUSINESS
Judy Argentine reported that a Dine and Donate night is scheduled for Upper Crust on Thursday, October 19. We are hoping for a good turnout.
The Historical Society will have a table at the Fall Festival on October 22. Volunteers have come forward to man the table throughout the day.
The “Christmas In The Pines” house tour will take place on December 9th from 12 to 6 PM. We need guides for each house and historic place as well as helpers to decorate the Pepper House and the Friendship School.
NEW BUSINESS
In order to honor the passing of two longtime Society members, Betty Gerber and Flossie Worrell, Ricky Haines made a motion that we donate $100 to the Methodist Church. Betty Orme seconded the motion and it was carried by voice vote.
The President showed the Christmas tree ornaments she purchased for us to sell. They represent a red schoolhouse similar to the Friendship School. We paid $6.40 each for them and hope to sell them for $15. Rick Franzen made a motion to reimburse Mary Ann Silvers the $384 she paid the company for the ornaments. Ricky Haines seconded the motion and it passed by voice vote.
Volunteers are needed to move the boxes of commemorative plates we have stored in the Pepper House from the second floor to the third floor. We will need to remove them before cleaning the house in anticipation of the Christmas Tour. The date was set for October 18. Rick Franzen, Ralph Shrom, Jackie Krantz, Barbara Toms, Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and Harry Silvers are volunteered to help.
November 15 was set to clean the Pepper House and December 6 was chosen to decorate it for the tour. Volunteers will be needed for both days.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20. The next meeting will be on November 9 at 7:30 at the Community Center. Millicent Moore will present a program on the history of the Moore Family. Ralph Shrom volunteered to bring refreshments.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
September 14, 2017
The September meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The Vice-President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 14 members present: Ann Franzen, Ralph Shrom, Peggy Pitney, Bill Sprague, Barbara Toms, Judy Argentine, Eileen Chesla, Betty Orme, Eileen Haines, Rickey Haines, Rick Franzen, Midge Hangley, Dee Collins and Jackie Krantz. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $13,632.90. Deposits totaled $1,698.10 , while debits were $177.50. The ending balance was $15,153.50.
OLD BUSINESS
The Chicken Barbecue in July was a great success. Ralph Shrom reported that we made a profit of $1785.37 and gave an accounting of expenses and income from the event. It was noted that larger containers were used for the potato salad and coleslaw this year at our request. As a result we ran out of both salads early on and had to go to the store to purchase more. For next year we may need to make some adjustments to the containers, the amount of salads donated or both.
Ann Franzen stated that she and Rick hung up the replica sign Rickey Haines and his family made for us at the Cemetery. It is attached the left side building on the wall that is under the arch.
The roof of the Friendship School has been replaced by Joe Barton who also provided all the materials. Mayor Stephen Lee and Township Administrator Doug Cramer were kind enough to lend a generator for Joe’s use on the project. The Township workers will haul away the leftover materials and trash from the site.
The refurbishing of the Pepper House windows will be done by PK Rit (Rob Ritter) beginning in October. The Township will pay the estimated bill of $2510 for the 16 windows. If the work exceeds $2600, the Historical Society will pay the balance.
NEW BUSINESS
The Corporate Annual Report was filed with the State of New Jersey by Mary Ann Silvers. She has been reimbursed by the Treasurer the cost of the fee – $27.50.
The Severs Family has contacted the Society to see if we are interested in buying and preserving the log cabin that has been in their family for well over a hundred years. The Silvers and the Franzens went to see the house on August 24, 2017. A full report on the house, including photos, was available to the members. This would be an extremely expensive project for us to undertake, but also an important opportunity. Bill Sprague suggested that one idea would be to take the building apart, number all the pieces and store until we have the time, location and money to re-assemble the house. Further research needs to be done on our options.
The Haunting in the Cemetery project is in need of a Chairman. Judy Argentine needs to step aside due to other issues taking up her time. There were no other volunteers to take over as head. We may revisit the idea at another time.
Midge Hangley explained about the event she is spearheading – the “Christmas in the Pines” House Tour. This will take place on December 9 between the hours of 12 noon and 6 PM. Bill Sprague and the Franzens volunteered to open their homes. In addition, we will have guides stationed at the Pepper House, the Friendship School and Town Hall. The Church of Christ has graciously offered to provide lunch to the participants at no cost. This will be the same day as the Methodist Church’s Cookie Walk, so we are planning to cross-promote both events. Volunteers are needed to help man the various buildings and homes.
Judy Argentine offered to arrange our next Dine and Donate night at Upper Crust. She will contact the owner and set this up for a date in October.
The members discussed whether to have a Refreshment Committee to arrange snacks for our meetings. It was decided to retain the present system of asking for volunteers each month.
The Tabernacle Community Fall Festival will be held on October 22 with a rain date of October 29. Ann and Rick Franzen will be able to set up and man the table early on. In addition, Jackie Krantz volunteered to work from 12 to 1, Barbara Toms from 1 to 2 and Peggy Pitney from 3 to 4.
On August 25 Mary Ann and Harry Silvers guided two gentlemen through the Pepper House and the Friendship School because they were unable to come on the Open House dates. A donation of $25 was received.
Our historic buildings will be included in the guide compiled by the N.J. Historical Commission for Field Trips in History and Social Studies. It will be noted that tours are by appointment only.
Ann Franzen reported that Mayor Stephen Lee has asked for the Society’s input on an idea he had to honor those who contributed greatly to our town’s founding and development. Further discussion is required, but it was thought that we could become involved in this process while not being solely responsible. Perhaps a committee of civic groups could be formed similar to the successful Tree Lighting Committee.
Judy Argentine mentioned an internet report that pillars marking the fraudulent Paisley development have been vandalized. These pillars are in Woodland Township. There was some speculation that the pillars belonged to site other than Paisley.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45. The next meeting will be on October 12 at 7:30 at the Community Center. Barbara Solem will present a program on “Ghost Towns of the Pines”. Betty Orme volunteered to bring refreshments.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
July 13, 2017
The July meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:45 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 10 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ralph Shrom, Peggy Pitney, Bill Sprague, Barbara Toms, Judy Argentine, Eileen Chesla and Carolyn Cuviello. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $15,641.04. Deposits totaled $141.86, while debits were $2,150. The ending balance was $13,632.90.
OLD BUSINESS
The recipient of our 2017 scholarship, Abrielle Lawyer was present to express her gratitude to the membership for the award. She had also sent us a formal letter of thanks. Abrielle will be attending LaSalle University majoring in Political Science and Communications.
Plans were finalized for the Chicken Barbecue to be held on July 15. Potato salad and food donations are to be brought to the Community Center on Saturday between 10 AM and noon. Members were reminded of their promises to donate food and to help on the day of the event.
On June 14 Ann Franzen and Mary Ann Silvers guided three families of homeschoolers on a historic tour of our town. Afterward, the families donated $40 to the Historical Society.
On July 7 – 9 the Friendship School was painted barn red with white trim. Rob Ritter was paid $2,150 for the work. Roy Gormley of Alliance Pest Management temporarily blocked up a hole in the rear top part of the school and sealed the chimney with aluminum. He did this work at no charge to the Society.
Rob Ritter gave us an estimate of $2,510 for re-glazing, replacing broken windows, sanding, priming and painting 16 windows. The estimate was sent to Town Hall, but no answer has been received.
Carolyn Cuviello and Mary Ann Silvers were at the Friendship School on July 1 as part of the Passport Program run by the County. They had one visitor. Volunteers are needed for August 5 and September 2 from 11 AM to 2 PM.
NEW BUSINESS
A metal sign used to facilitate pedestrian crossing by school children was donated to the Society by Frank Ingram. Frank was a long time custodian at the school on Carranza Road. He had rescued the sign from being scrapped when the school was closed.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20. As there is no August meeting, the next meeting will be on September 14 at 7:30 at the Community Center. Eileen Haines volunteered to bring refreshments.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
June 8, 2017
The June meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:45 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 8 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Ralph Shrom, Peggy Pitney, Barbara Toms, Eileen Chesla and Carolyn Cuviello. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $15,750.08. Deposits totaled $1,077.81, while debits were $1,186.85. The ending balance was $15,641.04.
OLD BUSINESS
Peggy Pitney and Mary Ann Silvers cleaned the Friendship Schoolhouse while holding an Open House on May 6 in conjunction with the Burlington County Passport Program. The Pepper House was cleaned by Carolyn Cuviello, Karen Sweeney, Ralph Shrom, Ann Franzen, Peg Pitney and Mary Ann Silvers on Monday, May 15 in preparation for the 3rd Grade Tour.
The 3rd Grade Tour held on May 23 was a great success. Volunteer docents who guided the children at the historic sites were: Peggy Pitney, Carolyn Cuviello, Bev Gibson, Ralph Shrom, Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Jackie Krantz and Karen Sweeney. Jackie demonstrated the 4 draft loom that was made by her grandfather, Leon Pepper. In addition, Rick Franzen explained the workings of our local government at the Town Hall.
Mary Ann Silvers planted some geraniums at the Pepper House, the school and Indian Ann’s gravesite. She also planted a hydrangea at the Pepper House. Ann Franzen planted some hostas and bridal wreath there as well.
During the Memorial Day Parade the Pepper House was open for tours and the Society sold some of our items. Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen and Peggy Pitney
were the volunteers. Mary Ann presented a wreath on behalf of the Society. We had an opportunity to converse with various members of the Pepper family and learn about how the house was furnished years ago.
Peggy Pitney and Ann Franzen manned the Friendship School on June 3 for the County Passport Program. There were about 12 visitors. Volunteers are still needed for the open houses on August 5 and September 2.
The Strawberry Social was held on June 3. We met our goal of raising $500 despite a much higher price for the strawberries. Ten newly purchased signs were placed around town by Rick and Ann Franzen. Judy Argentine entertained with her Victrola.
NEW BUSINESS
Keith Zane donated $100 and was designated a lifetime member.
The Chicken Barbecue will be held in conjunction with the Emergency Squad on July 15. We will provide potato salad and desserts. Volunteers are needed to make food and work during the event. Advance sale tickets will be mailed to members.
The Methodist church has decided to give The Cemetery Fund a flat sum of $25 per year in lieu of interest on a savings bond they hold for the cemetery. This will save the church some paperwork and will generate a higher amount than the actual interest would at current rates.
Ricky Haines was thanked for sharing some of his historic photos with us. Rick Franzen scanned and saved them to our files. They have been printed and put into our albums too.
Mary Ann and Ann will conduct a tour of 3 of our sites to a group of home-school students on June 14.
We have a possibility of an intern who will volunteer with us this summer. We are proposing that she photograph our artifacts in the Pepper House and Friendship School for insurance purposes.
THS golf shirts are available for purchase and order. We have 4 shirts now – all Women’s Large or Extra Large – and we can take orders for other sizes.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45. The next meeting will be on July 13 at 7:30 at the Community Center. Barbara Toms volunteered to bring refreshments.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
May 11, 2017
The May meeting was held on the above date at the Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence.
There were 20 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Sue Shannon, Rita Moonsammy, Rickey Haines, Eileen Haines, Judy Argentine, Ralph Shrom, Peggy Pitney, Harry Worrell, Florence Worrell, Keith Zane, Rick Franzen, Midge Hangley, Karen Sweeney, Carolyn Cuviello, Jackie Krantz and Dee Collins. Also present were two guests, Katie Smith and Bill Sprague. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $15,966.16. Deposits totaled $333.92, while debits were $550.00. The ending balance was $15,750.08.
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported that the Cemetery has been cleaned up. The fence rails have been placed in the posts and brush has been removed. Painting of the buildings will take place on July 13 and 14.
Peggy Pitney and Mary Ann Silvers cleaned the Friendship Schoolhouse while holding an Open House on May 6 in conjunction with the Burlington County Passport Program. They showed the building to 4 visitors from 11 AM to 2 PM. Ann and Rick Franzen placed 12 bags of
mulch at the school and planted some hostas. The building will be painted on June 26.
The Pepper House will be cleaned on May 15 at 9:30 in anticipation of the annual 3rd Grade Tour. Volunteers will be guiding the students at the Pepper House (Mary Ann Silvers, Jackie Krantz and Karen Sweeney), Friendship Schoolhouse (Peggy Pitney and Carolyn Cuviello), Tabernacle Cemetery (Beverly Gibson and Ralph Shrom), and Carranza Memorial (Ann Franzen and Barbara Toms). Rick Franzen and Steven Lee will be at Town Hall explaining the workings of the town government.
Our next fundraiser will be the Strawberry Social on June 3. Volunteers are needed to bake cakes and work during the event. Proceeds will be used for our scholarship fund. A motion was made by Sue Shannon and seconded by Peg Pitney to buy 10 new street signs advertising the Social year after year. The motion carried by voice vote.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:05. The next meeting will be on June 8 at 7:30 at the Community Center.
Following the meeting a presentation was made by Katie Smith of the Pinelands Preservation Alliance on “Pinelands At Risk”.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
April 13, 2017
The April meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence.
The meeting was then suspended for a special presentation by Marisa Bozarth entitled “Ellis Parker: America’s Sherlock Holmes”.
The meeting resumed at 8:50. There were 14 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Sue Shannon, Rita Moonsammy, Rickey Haines, Judy Argentine, Joe Argentine, Ralph Shrom, Peggy Pitney, Allen Rowles, Harry Worrell, Florence Worrell, and Dee Collins. Also present were two guests, Deborah Grove and Bill Sprague. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $16,603.52. Deposits totaled $170.17, while debits were $807.53. The ending balance was $15,966.16.
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported that the missing shingles have been replaced on the Cemetery building roof and that painting of the exterior trim and doors will be done in July at a cost of $600.
Discussion of painting the two buildings was tabled until we know whether we will be receiving a grant for re-siding.
Roy Gromley of AlliancePest Management, exterminated around both buildings at no cost to the Society. Judy Argentine made a motion to give Mr. Gormley an honorary membership in THS. This was seconded by Ann Franzen and approved by voice vote.
Painting of the Friendship Schoolhouse will begin on June 26, 2017 for $2,150. Mary Ann and Harry Silvers planted five azalea bushes in front of the school. Ann Franzen will place black mulch around the plants.
The President and Vice President met with the insurance agency. At our behest, changes were made in the policy to save money. We dropped coverage on the contents of the schoolhouse and raised the deductible to $2,000.
Rita Moonsammy reported that she has been conducting oral history interviews on several of our members and is looking for more subjects. She explained that oral history paints a picture of a cultural landscape through life stories. She said that interviewees need not be “old timers”, but could be anyone with an extensive knowledge of the people and places in our town.
NEW BUSINESS
Ann and Mary Ann did a history presentation to the Holy Eucharist Senior Citizens on April 6. The Society was given a $75 donation by the group.
A motion was made by Ann Franzen and seconded by Ralph Shrom to donate $50 to the St. Vincent DePaul Society of Holy Eucharist Church in memory of recently deceased member Ken Yates. This was approved by voice vote.
After some discussion, a motion was made by Ralph Shrom and seconded by Judy Argentine to continue the THS $500 scholarship for a graduating Seneca senior from Tabernacle with an interest in either History or Education.
The Strawberry Social will be held on June 3 this year. We will need many volunteers to bake cakes, cut strawberries, sell tickets and work on the day of the event. It was decided to hold the event indoors either at the Community Center or one of the churches depending upon availability.
We will be cleaning the Pepper House and the Friendship School in preparation for the 3rd Grade tour and the Memorial Day Open House. This will take place on May 15 and 16. Ralph Shrom and Peggy Pitney volunteered to help, and more help will be required. Mary Ann said that the bed that had been
donated to us has been assembled and placed in the right side bedroom of the Pepper House.
We will open the Friendship School on the first Saturday of each month from May to September from 11 AM to 2 PM as part of Burlington County’s Passport Program. Ann Franzen has volunteered to take the June 3 date, and Peggy Pitney will accompany her.
Ann Franzen reported that Rickey and Eileen Haines have allowed us to copy historic photos in their collection. We will have copies made and placed in our binders.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:50. The next meeting will be on May 11 at 7:30. Rita Moonsammy volunteered to bring the refreshments.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
March 16, 2017
The March meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:45 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 13 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Sue Shannon, Rita Moonsammy, Eileen Haines, Rickey Haines, Dorothy Yates, Barbara Toms, Judy Argentine, Ralph Shrom, Rick Franzen and Midge Hangley. Also present was a guest, Carleen Artusa. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Secretary reported that a Thank You Note was received from a Girl Scout troop. Ann Franzen had given a talk to the troop in December. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $16,093.24. Deposits totaled $576.25, while debits were $65.97.
The ending balance was $16,603.52.
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported that she had applied for and received permission to use the Community Center for our meetings in 2017.
Harry Silvers of the Building and Grounds Committee told us about repairs and improvements made to the Cemetery buildings. Ceiling joists, doors and trim, gutters, new locks and some new vinyl siding were installed. In addition, trenches were dug around the buildings and filled with stones to improve drainage. In the future, the buildings will need to have Tyvek installed with new siding over it. A grant is pending that may help with this cost. A proposal was made to have the windows, wood trim and doors painted professionally. This was approved by voice vote.
A motion was made by Ann Franzen and seconded by Judy Argentine to have the Friendship School professionally painted by RK Rit Painting and Wallcovering for approximately $2150. A grant was applied for to partially offset this cost. The motion was carried. The membership also voted by a show of hands to have the building painted barn red.
Judy Argentine agreed to work on a proposed fundraiser to be called “A Haunting In The Cemetery” and held in the Fall.
NEW BUSINESS
The insurance bill due now is $1522.00. This represents an increase due to higher valuations of the properties. Mary Ann and Ann will meet with the insurance agent on Friday, March17 to investigate ways to lower this cost.
Ann Franzen reported that the annual 3rd Grade Tour will be held on May 22 this year with a rain date of May 23. Midge Hangley and Barbara Toms volunteered to help with the tour. Cleanup dates for the Pepper House and the School will be set later and volunteers will be needed for this.
We have received a donation from J. Garfield DeMarco which included 33 photographs, an Allen’s Dairy milk bottle, and DVDs of the Dedication of the Friendship School and Mr. DeMarco’s birthday celebration. We have also received a Deed of Gift and Permission To Use the items. A thank you note has been sent.
Midge Hangley reported on her research on Benjamin Randolph. Mr. Randolph, who lived in Speedwell, was an 18th century cabinet maker in Philadelphia. He purportedly made a portable lap desk for Thomas Jefferson who used it while drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
Lillie Fitzpatrick, retired Tabernacle Schools Librarian, donated to the Society her Master’s Thesis on the history of the school system. We will use her work in our history book writing.
In accordance with our by-laws, it was suggested that Betsy Piner be designated as a Lifetime Member due to her generous donations. Midge Hangley made the motion which was seconded by Judy Argentine and carried by voice vote.
The next meeting will be on Thursday, April 13 at 7:30. Marisa Bozarth will present a program entitled “Ellis Parker: America’s Sherlock Holmes”. Judy Argentine and Midge Hangley volunteered to bring the refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30. A presentation followed by Rick Franzen on the History of the Knight-Pepper House through census records.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
December 8, 2016
The December meeting was held on the above date at the Franzen Home. A formal business meeting was not held. The President gave a synopsis of the Historical Society events of the past year.
As is our tradition, there will be no meetings in January and February.
The next meeting will be on Thursday, March 16 at 7:30. There will be a presentation by Rick Franzen on The History of the Knight-Pepper House Through Census Records
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
November 10, 2016
The November meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 15 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Peggy Pitney, Harry Silvers, Sue Shannon, Dee Collins, Rita Moonsammy, Eileen Chesla, Meg Ellis, Carol Touchton, Eileen Haines, Rickey Haines, Edna Seebode, Midge Hangley and Jackie Krantz. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $16,128.40. Deposits totaled $79.09, while debits were $114.25. The ending balance was $16,093.24.
OLD BUSINESS
The Budget for 2017 was presented to the membership and was approved by unanimous voice vote. There was a discussion of insurance coverage for the officers of THS. A vote was tabled pending quotes from the insurance company. Also under discussion was the THS Scholarship to a graduating Seneca senior. Many opinions were offered from increasing the amount of the scholarship to discontinuing it. Rita Moonsammy suggested that we connect an essay contest to the award. Mary Ann Silvers wanted the scholarship to go to a student who will study education in college while Edna Seebode thought that the scholarship should go to a student with high grades in History. No final action was taken
The President reported on the work being done on the cemetery buildings. The new roof was finished on November 3. The contractor is Mike Jentsch, and Joe Barton had the shingles donated. Joe also paid the required state fee. The renovations on the right building will begin in a few weeks.
Roofing materials were also donated for the Friendship School through Joe Barton. We had hoped to have the building painted by the Boy Scouts or Cub Scouts, but we may need to hire a professional painter instead.
Research is underway for the History Book project.
We are hoping to have a “Haunting in the Cemetery” event in the fall. Judy Argentine will chair the project.
Bakers are needed for the upcoming Tree Lighting. We will have a table of items for sale and displays. Peggy Pitney volunteered to man the table. The Santa mailbox will be at the tree lighting, and will also be available in the Town Hall from December 1 to December 23.
Page 2
NEW BUSINESS
A Holiday House Tour is under consideration as a possible fund-raiser. Midge Hangley will chair the event. It was suggested that we could coordinate the tour with the Methodist Church Cookie Walk.
Member Rita Moonsammy donated Pinelands Folklife, a book she co-wrote to the Society. The book has been used to help protect traditional lifestyles and enterprises from proposed restrictions in the Pine Barrens Preservation Act.
The next meeting will be a Holiday Social on December 8 at the home of Ann and Rick Franzen at 7:30. Members are asked to bring either a sweet or a savory dish.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM. Refreshments and a reminiscence period followed.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
November 10, 2016
The November meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 15 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Peggy Pitney, Harry Silvers, Sue Shannon, Dee Collins, Rita Moonsammy, Eileen Chesla, Meg Ellis, Carol Touchton, Eileen Haines, Rickey Haines, Edna Seebode, Midge Hangley and Jackie Krantz. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $16,128.40. Deposits totaled $79.09, while debits were $114.25. The ending balance was $16,093.24.
OLD BUSINESS
The Budget for 2017 was presented to the membership and was approved by unanimous voice vote. There was a discussion of insurance coverage for the officers of THS. A vote was tabled pending quotes from the insurance company. Also under discussion was the THS Scholarship to a graduating Seneca senior. Many opinions were offered from increasing the amount of the scholarship to discontinuing it. Rita Moonsammy suggested that we connect an essay contest to the award. Mary Ann Silvers wanted the scholarship to go to a student who will study education in college while Edna Seebode thought that the scholarship should go to a student with high grades in History. No final action was taken
The President reported on the work being done on the cemetery buildings. The new roof was finished on November 3. The contractor is Mike Jentsch, and Joe Barton had the shingles donated. Joe also paid the required state fee. The renovations on the right building will begin in a few weeks.
Roofing materials were also donated for the Friendship School through Joe Barton. We had hoped to have the building painted by the Boy Scouts or Cub Scouts, but we may need to hire a professional painter instead.
Research is underway for the History Book project.
We are hoping to have a “Haunting in the Cemetery” event in the fall. Judy Argentine will chair the project.
Bakers are needed for the upcoming Tree Lighting. We will have a table of items for sale and displays. Peggy Pitney volunteered to man the table. The Santa mailbox will be at the tree lighting, and will also be available in the Town Hall from December 1 to December 23.
NEW BUSINESS
A Holiday House Tour is under consideration as a possible fund-raiser. Midge Hangley will chair the event. It was suggested that we could coordinate the tour with the Methodist Church Cookie Walk.
Member Rita Moonsammy donated Pinelands Folklife, a book she co-wrote to the Society. The book has been used to help protect traditional lifestyles and enterprises from proposed restrictions in the Pine Barrens Preservation Act.
The next meeting will be a Holiday Social on December 8 at the home of Ann and Rick Franzen at 7:30. Members are asked to bring either a sweet or a savory dish.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM. Refreshments and a reminiscence period followed.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
October 13, 2016
The October meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 13 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Peggy Pitney, Harry Silvers, Sue Shannon, Ralph Shrom, Dee Collins, Betty Orme, Eileen Chesla, Harry Worrell, Flossy Worrell, Carolyn Cuviello and Judy Witowski-Argentine. There were also five guests – Meg Ellis, Carol Touchton, Donna Tatum, Allan Rowles and Pat Horan.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $15,234.61. Deposits totaled $893.79, while debits were $0. The ending balance was $16,128.40.
OLD BUSINESS
Mike Jentsch of Artist Construction will be starting the renovations on the right side of the cemetery building soon. Joe Barton facilitated a roofing permit for the construction and had the materials donated to us. The materials have been delivered and are ready for use.
The Jr. ROTC from Seneca trimmed the bushes in front of the cemetery buildings to allow the construction and exterminating work to be done. Ray Gromley has volunteered to do the exterminating work for us at no cost.
Joe Barton got a waiver for the roofing work on the Friendship School. He expects to begin the roofing in November.
Golf shirts with the THS logo are for sale at $25. There are 6 shirts left, and we will order more as needed.
A Luncheon/Tea was held at the Silvers home on Wed., Sept. 21. We served 25 guests and made $625. Special thanks to Mary Ann Silvers, Carolyn Cuviello, Eileen Chesla, Ann Franzen, Midge Hangley, Peggy Hohenstein, Carol Touchton and Bobbie Brittain.
The Building and Grounds Committee will consist of Harry Silvers, Joe Barton and Rick Franzen.
Mary Ann and Ann met with Tom Kinsella and Paul Schopp of Stockton College, Oct. 11 to discuss how they can assist us in publishing a new history book of Tabernacle. The History Writing Committee will meet on Oct. 18 to discuss how to begin this project.
Oral Histories will be taken soon by Rita Moonsammy, a folklorist. She will interview some of our older residents and transcribe their memories of the past in our town.
Eric Schubert, a 15 year old from Medford, is interested in working with us in genealogical research tracking some of our long time families.
NEW BUSINESS
We received a check from the Tabernacle Rescue Squad for $210, representing donations received at the door of the Chicken Barbecue.
The Pine Barrens Tribune incorrectly reported that the Tabernacle Township Committee was renovating the cemetery buildings. We have requested a correction acknowledging that THS is responsible for the repairs.
The President requested that someone volunteer to serve on the Budget Committee along with the President and Treasurer. Sue Shannon accepted the position.
The Community Fall Festival will take place on Sunday, October 23. Mary Ann will set up, Peg Pitney and Judy Argentine will also man the table throughout the event.
The Tabernacle HSA Community Night will be held on Friday, Nov. 18 from 6 to 9 PM at Olson Middle School. Help is needed to man the tables.
The 3rd Annual Community Tree Lighting Event will take place on Friday, Dec. 2, at Town Hall. Volunteers are needed to help with the decorating of the tree and gazebo, baking goodies and manning our table.
Allan Rowles asked whether there was any signage at the cemetery marking it as Indian Ann’s final resting place. He was told that there is a granite marker at her grave, but there was confusion about whether the historic marker outside the graveyard mentioned her.
The next meeting will be held on November 10 at the Community Center. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM.
A program followed on the History of Presidential Campaign Buttons given by Ann Franzen.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Franzen
Secretary & Vice President
September 8, 2016
The September meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 13 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Peggy Pitney, Harry Silvers, Sue Shannon, Ralph Shrom, Dee Collins, Betty Orme, Keith Zane, Joe Barton, Eileen Chesla, Jackie Krantz and Judy Witowski- Argentine. There were also three guests – Amy Fitzpatrick, Brody Fitzpatrick and Rita Moonsammy.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $13,564.28. Deposits totaled $2,111.40, while debits were $441.07. The ending balance was $15,234.61. Joe Barton said that he wanted to clarify the donation attributed to Rick Franzen. He stated that the money came from the Committee to Re-Elect Barton and Franzen and was donated without his knowledge. Mary Ann asked if he wanted the money returned to him, and Joe said that he did not. He approved of the donation, but was not consulted about it.
OLD BUSINESS
New Officers were sworn in: Mary Ann Silvers as President, Ann Franzen as Vice-President and Secretary and Harry Silvers as Treasurer. There was also a presentation of flowers and a certificate of appreciation given to the out-going Treasurer, Peggy Pitney who has served the Historical Society well and will continue as a valuable and active member.
The President announced that Arpan Baghat had successfully completed his Eagle Scout project on improvements to the Friendship School landscaping. Another student, Brody Fitzpatrick was present at the meeting and honored for his work at the Friendship School on weed prevention in the front of the school property.
It was announced that Tyler McCormack was the 2016 recipient of the THS Scholarship.
The Chicken Barbecue final accounting showed a profit of $1434.25 plus an additional $130 in donations.
The History Book Committee met on August 4 to look at various photos and scrapbooks in our collection. It was agreed that we would begin to investigate ways to publish a new book on our history.
On September 13 a meeting will be held by the county to review grant application procedures. This grant would not be for capital improvements, but possibly for future publications. Ralph Shrom and Mary Ann Silvers will try to attend.
Two bank accounts were opened (one savings, one checking) to receive checks from the Haineses. This is money we will manage in order to renovate and maintain the cemetery property. Mike Jentsch of Artist Construction Co. will be reconstructing the right side building. He will begin in the Fall. Joe Barton asked that the cost of the shingles for the roof be separated out in the estimate. He may be able to get the shingles donated.
Joe will also begin to replace the shingles on the Friendship School. Keith Zane and the scouts will perform the scraping, sanding, priming and staining on the building.
There are 6 golf shirts for sale in ladies sizes large and extra-large. They will be available for $25 each with about $2 of that to be a donation to the Society.
A four-poster bed that was given to us by Denise Baranowski has been restored by Harry Silvers and taken to the Pepper House.
There will be a Luncheon Tea presented as a fundraiser for the Society on September 21st at the Silvers’ home. Everything will be donated, and 24 tickets will be sold at $20 each.
Other possible fundraiser ideas were discussed: A Haunting at the Cemetery, Family Photos and the sale of schoolhouse tree ornaments. No action was taken at this time.
The President sought volunteers for various committees. The following volunteers stepped forward: Harry Silvers and Joe Barton, Buildings and Grounds; Ann Franzen and Claire Hamilton, Historian; Judy Witowski-Argentine, Historic Sites; Mary Ann Silvers and Claire Hamilton, Library; Ann Franzen and Mary Ann Silvers, Museum; Sue Shannon, Programs and Ralph Shrom, Ann Franzen and Judy Witowski-Argentine, Publications.
NEW BUSINESS
The Tabernacle Community Fall Festival will be held on October 23 with a rain date of October 30. Mary Ann, Peggy and Judy all volunteered to man our table.
The Community Tree Lighting will be on December 2nd this year. We will be looking for donations of lights and baked goods. Volunteers will be needed before and during the event.
Ann will be making a new calendar for 2016-17. It was decided that we will hold no meetings in January, February and August.
Guest Rita Moonoammy introduced herself and said that she was a folklorist interested in working on some oral histories. Judy Argentine reported that she
had been contacted by a teenager named Eric from Medford who would like to volunteer with us.
The next meeting will be held on October 13 at the Community Center. Ann Franzen will give a presentation on the history anf campaign buttons in presidential campaigns. Betty Orme has volunteered to provide the refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PM.
July 14, 2016
The July meeting was held on the above date at the Community Center. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 13 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Peggy Pitney, Harry Silvers, Carolyn Cuviello, Sue Shannon, Ralph Shrom, Dee Collins, Harry Worrell, Florence Worrell, Rick Franzen, Betty Orme and Judy Argentine-Witowski.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $12,756.05. Deposits totaled $1100.23, while debits were $292.00. The ending balance was $13,564.28
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported that the Strawberry Social held last month was a success. Profit was $535. In addition we received a check from former member Bob Boer in the amount of $200. A motion was made by Judy Argentine-Witowski to open a separate account for the Tabernacle Cemetery Fund. The motion was seconded by Sue Shannon and approved by voice vote. Another motion was made by Ann Franzen and seconded by Ralph Shrom to put the donation from Bob Boer into this account. This motion was also approved.
The President announced that Tyler McCormick was the 2016 recipient of our scholarship. He will be studying civil engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. She also reported that Arpan Bagat finished his Eagle Scout project at
the Friendship School. He wants to place a plaque at the site. The wording of the plaque was discussed but no consensus was reached.
The Chicken Barbecue will be held on July 16th this year. We will be partnering with the Tabernacle Rescue Squad, and the event will be at the Community Center. Society members are asked to provide potato salad and some desserts and to volunteer to help on the day of the barbecue.
Ann Franzen ordered 8 golf shirts with a THS logo. Betty Orme made a motion to reimburse Ann the $183.92 she spent. The shirts are available for purchase at $25 each. This will give the Society a profit of $2.01 for each shirt.
Brodie Fitzpatrick will do a project at Friendship School working towards making the front of the school weed-free. Mary Ann will be checking with Joe Barton and Keith Zane on the timetables for their projects at the school.
NEW BUSINESS
Several possible fund raising ideas were discussed: a luncheon/tea, a dramatic presentation at the Cemetery, a family photo night and a schoolhouse Christmas tree ornament. The luncheon/tea will be held at the Silvers’ home on September 21. Volunteers will be needed to bake and to serve on the day of the event. Tickets will be $25, and only 20 will be sold.
The resignation of Donald Gerber was announced. This necessitated a special election to fill the vacancy in the office of Vice President. In order to be able to install the new officers at the September meeting a motion was made by Ralph Shrom to suspend the by-laws’ requirement of 48 hours’ notice before an election. The motion was seconded by Betty Orme and passed by the members. The floor was opened for nominations. Mary Ann Silvers nominated Ann Franzen, and this was seconded by Ralph Shrom. No other nominations were offered from the floor. The nominations were then closed and a vote was taken that approved Ann for the office. A discussion was then held on who would assume the office of Secretary. No volunteers were forthcoming, so it was decided that Ann would continue in that role as well.
The next meeting will be held on September 8 at the Community Center. Sue Shannon has volunteered to provide the refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 PM.
June 9, 2016
The June meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 9 members present: Ann Franzen, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Peggy Pitney, Harry Silvers, Carolyn Cuviello, Eileen Chesla, Sue Shannon and Keith Zane. Also attending was a guest, Ralph Shrom.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $13,150.26. Deposits totaled $63.29, while debits were $457.50. The ending balance was $12,756.05
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported that the officers elected at the last meeting will be inducted at the September meeting. She also said that our 501 (c)(3) status has been approved. We will need to file tax returns for the past 3 years.
Ann Franzen reported that the recent 3rd Grade Tour was a success and volunteers were thanked for their participation. Donald Gerber suggested that we hand out a brochure about the Society to each child.
Plans were finalized for the Strawberry Social on June 11. Ann Franzen suggested that we hold the Social indoors at the Methodist Church instead of outdoors at the Town Hall because of perennial problems with the weather and because there would be less work involved if we move indoors. The motion was seconded by Sue Shannon and passed by voice vote.
Keith Zane said that the Boy Scouts will be camping at the Pine Tree Camp, and may want to buy our leftover desserts. Various members volunteered to bake cakes, prepare strawberries, buy whipped cream and work on June 11. Betty Orme said she would donate 10 lbs. of hot dogs.
Joe Barton will put a new roof on the Friendship School with shingles donated by a friend of his. Keith Zane promised that the boy scouts would scrape and paint the school.
Judy Argentine has been working on transcribing our oral histories.
NEW BUSINESS
Mary Ann Silvers reported that she attended a meeting of Tabernacle Community Organizations. The groups promised to share dates and scheduling information for our various events to encourage cooperation and help avoid conflicts.
The Chicken Barbecue will be held on August 7 at the Methodist Church. There will be a picnic/meeting at Donald Gerber’s house on July 14 to finalize plans.
There was a discussion about switching our meetings to the Community Center instead of the Town Hall. Peggy Pitney reported that the Church of Christ also has a meeting room that could be made available to us. We will investigate both of these options.
The next meeting will be the dinner at Donald Gerber’s House at 6 PM on July 14. Members are asked to bring a covered dish.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM.
May 12, 2016
The May meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 17 members present: Ann Franzen, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Peggy Pitney, Betty Orme, Harry Silvers, Jackie Krantz, Dee Collins, Eileen Chesla, Beverly Gibson, Barbara Toms, Edna Seebode, Carolyn Cuviello, James Cuviello, Sue Shannon, Keith Zane and , Steven Lee. Also present was a guest, Patrick Lee.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $13,258.99. Deposits totaled $178.27, while debits were $287.00. The ending balance was $13,150.26
OLD BUSINESS
The Election Chairman, Edna Seebode, presented the list of nominees for THS offices for the next three years. They were: Mary Ann Silvers – President, Donald Gerber – Vice-President, Harry Silvers – Treasurer and Ann Franzen – Secretary. There were no nominations from the floor, and the election was conducted as a voice vote with unanimous approval for all nominees.
The recent Dine and Donate night held at Upper Crust, was a big success. It raised $175.
Ann Franzen reported that she and her husband took the Conte sign apart in the field where it had fallen over. They cleaned the pieces and stored them in one of the cemetery buildings.
Mary Ann Silvers and Ann met with Ricky and Eileen Haines. We learned that the Haineses never had any legal responsibility for the cemetery. They voluntarily kept the records for the cemetery and maintained the grounds. We agreed to take over the historic records of the cemetery to organize and preserve them. We are already taking responsibility for the buildings and arch. A check with our insurance company revealed that our insurance cost will not rise with this change.
The President told us that she has been working on the application for state grant money through Burlington County. We are hoping to get a grant to help with the cost of repairing the cemetery buildings. We have an estimate of $11,585.00 from Artist Construction. To help us apply for this (and other) grants, we have applied for 501©93) status. Mary Ann paid the $400 application fee. Betty Orme moved to reimburse her for this amount. Edna Seebode seconded the motion and it carried by voice vote. As part of the non-profit status we will need regular audits. Edna Seebode will research the names of potential auditors.
NEW BUSINESS
Our insurance company informed us that an appraiser had viewed our properties and determined that they were in disrepair and also that their valuation was too low. An extra assessment of $287 was charged. We received an extension on the time limit for repairs and also requested that the Township speed up promised improvements at the Pepper House.
The Memorial Day Parade will be May 28. The President asked for volunteers to create a float for the Society. There were none. She will present a wreath in our name. Mayor Steven Lee invited all of us to the dedication of the new Refreshment Stand at Patty Bowker Field following the parade.
The Strawberry Social will be held on June 11. Ann made a motion to move the event indoors at the Tabernacle Methodist Church. Sue Shannon seconded, and the motion carried after a short discussion. Members volunteered to bake cakes, cut up strawberries and provide topping. Judy Argentine will bring a canopy for outside eating and a Victrola for entertainment.
The Friendship School is in need of repairs to its roof and chimney. In addition, the paint is peeling. We got an estimate to scrape, sand and paint the siding and trim. Keith Zane said he would present the painting project to the Boy Scouts to see if it is something they would be able to do for us.
The annual Historic Tour for the 3rd Graders will be held on May 31. Peggy Pitney, Beverly Gibson, Mary Ann Silvers, Carolyn Cuviello, Barbara Toms, Brenda Locke and Ann Franzen will serve as guides for the tour.
The next meeting will be held on June 9, 2016. Ann Franzen volunteered to provide refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM.
April 14, 2016
The April meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 10 members present: Ann Franzen, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Bob Boer, Peggy Pitney, Betty Orme, Harry Silvers, Jackie Krantz, Dee Collins and Sue Shannon. Also present were three guests: Barbara Jeranek, Elaine Reickenbach and Hal Pschunder.
The meeting was then suspended until after the presentation of a program and the sharing of refreshments. The program was given by Hal Pschunder on the topic of the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
The President resumed the meeting at 9:55 .The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $13,509.36. Deposits totaled $6.56, while debits were $256.92 .The ending balance was $13,258.99.
OLD BUSINESS
Bob Boer and Betty Orme , the Nominations Committee, presented the slate of nominees for the offices of the Tabernacle Historical Society. They are: President – Mary Ann Silvers, Vice President – Donald Gerber, Secretary – Ann Franzen and Treasurer – Harry Silvers. There were no further nominations from the floor. The election will be held at the May meeting.
Conte’s sign is being saved by the Society for historical purposes. We have permission from the family to remove and keep it in our possession.
Mary Ann spoke to Doug Cramer about the Pepper House roof. She asked for a close collaboration on future work projects. The choice of a metal roof had been made by Doug and Committeeman Joe Yates without our input.
Seneca High School has been authorized to use the unclaimed money from our 2015 scholarship for the 2016 award.
There was discussion about the possibility of exhibiting our woven basket which has been attributed to Indian Ann at the Pinelands Commission Museum. It was decided that we will consider the matter after the museum has been built.
NEW BUSINESS
Ann Franzen reported that the annual Historic Tour of Tabernacle we host for the 3rd graders will take place on May 31st with a raindate of June 2. Volunteers will be needed for those dates and also for cleaning the Pepper House and the Schoolhouse.
A Dine and Donate Night has been scheduled for April 25th at Upper Crust. Members were asked to take coupons for the event.
Arpan Bhagat from Troop 439 proposed an Eagle Scout project involving the landscaping and weed removal at the schoolhouse. He will do the work in May or June. A motion to approve the project was made by Betty Orme, seconded by Jackie Krantz and carried by voice vote.
Ricky and Eileen Haines want to turn over the responsibility for the Tabernacle Cemetery to the Society. The officers will meet on April 18 to discuss the issue.
A needs survey was completed and returned to the County regarding some possible grant money coming from the state. We are hoping to get a grant to repair the cemetery buildings.
The idea of live music at the Strawberry Social was discussed and discarded as being too expensive.
The President reported on some acquisitions that we have made for the Pepper House. She purchased three stenciled chairs and a hooded cradle, while a four poster bed was donated by Denise Baranowski. Mary Ann will also be making curtains for the upstairs front windows.
The next meeting will be held on May 12, 2016. Jackie Krantz volunteered to provide refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 PM.
March 10, 2016
The March meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 9 members present: Ann Franzen, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Bob Boer, Peggy Pitney, Betty Orme, Harry Silvers, Barbara Toms, Betsy Piner and Sue Shannon. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $14,763.46. Deposits totaled $735.89, while debits were $989.99 .The ending balance was $13,509.36.
OLD BUSINESS
The By-Laws of the Historical Society having undergone extensive editing , discussion and review were put to a vote. A motion made by Barbara Toms and seconded by Bob Boer was unanimously approved by voice vote.
The President reported that a “Santa’s Mailbox” was purchased through a donation by Joe Barton. It will be used for the Tree Lighting Event.
The new roof construction on the Pepper House was brought up by Mary Ann Silvers. She explained that the Society thought it was going to be a shingled roof. We had never considered a metal roof and were surprised at the finished product. She added that the building belongs to the Township, and that the Township paid for and oversaw the construction. Although the metal roof was not our choice, it is a more expensive and longer lasting product. This discussion sparked a heated monologue by Donald Gerber in which he said that the Township had ruined the Pepper House and threw out all the hard work and thousands of dollars the Society invested in the building in the past. He also said that the Society should send a letter to the Township Committee complaining about the injustice, but that it wouldn’t because the Secretary has a conflict of interest because her husband is on the Township Committee. In order to defuse the tense situation, the President attempted to table the discussion and go on to other business. Donald Gerber then left the meeting.
Mary Ann reported on our application to become a 501 (c)(3) organization. The application has been rejected because we did not provide a valid EIN number. The previous number had expired at some point and we have applied for re-instatement. Our application fee was refunded and deposited into our account for later use.
The President told us about work that needs to be done on the buildings of the Tabernacle Cemetery. We have received permission from Ricky Haines to have this work performed, and we are looking for financing.
The large metal sign advertising the Tabernacle landmark Conte’s Farm has been donated to the Society for preservation. Details regarding its removal and storage are pending.
The meeting then returned to the issue of the Pepper House roof. Ann Franzen said that the Society is now enjoying a good relationship with the Township, partly due to the efforts of her husband. She said that she believes the roof choice was due to a misunderstanding, not a deliberate effort to harm the Society. Mary Ann pointed out that the metal roof costs more than the shingle roof would have, so that the Township spent more money than we asked for in order to give us a stronger roof. Ann also added that, although the Pepper House did not have a metal roof, this type of roof was widely used in the time period on similar houses. Various members said that we should approach the Township about the situation. Mary Ann said that she would address the issue with the Township Administrator.
NEW BUSINESS
The President appointed Bob Boer and Betty Orme to be the Nominating Committee. They will survey the membership and present a slate of nominees for election as the Society’s officers.
The Seneca Scholarship is due for re-funding. Mary Ann will check on whether 2015’s money has been claimed. If not, perhaps it can be used for 2016.
Betsy Piner explained about a proposed museum that is to be established by the Pinelands Commission. The Commission would like to display the basket owned by the Historical Society. When the time comes, we can decide whether to loan the basket to the Museum.
Ann Franzen and Mary Ann Silvers reported on the latest Historians’ Roundtable. Several upcoming events (Passport to History, State History Fair and Farm Fair) are of interest to us, but would require volunteers from the Society. After some discussion, there were no volunteers for the events, so our participation will be limited to brochures or exhibits.
Another Dine and Donate Night is planned for April at Upper Crust. The President asked for a volunteer to chair the event. No one volunteered.
Upcoming events were mentioned: a basketball game/fundraiser and a memorial honoring the late County Historian, Joe Laufer
The next meeting will be held on April14. Betty Orme volunteered to provide refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM.
December 10, 2015
The December meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 9 members present: Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Bob Boer, Eileen Chesla,, Betty Gerber, Penny Jones, Donald Gerber, Harry Silvers and Sue Shannon. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $14,694.44.. Deposits totaled $248.63, while there were debits of $179.61 .The ending balance was $14,763.46.
OLD BUSINESS
The Second Annual Tree Lighting was a success with about 400 attendees, Santa and Mrs. Claus, singers, musicians, cookies, cocoa and cider. Tony Russo graciously donated the 14 foot tree for the event.
The 2016 Budget was voted upon by the membership after being presented at the November meeting. Penny Jones made the motion for approval, and it was seconded by Eileen Chesla. The budget passed with an affirmative voice vote.
There was further discussion of the by-laws of the Historical Society. It was decided that the members would review the proposed changes, and that a final vote would be taken at the March meeting.
The next meeting will be held on March 10. There were no volunteers for refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM.
November 12, 2015
The November meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 14 members present: Ann Franzen, Irene Abrams, Jackie Krantz, Dee Collins, Mary Ann Silvers, Bob Boer, Eileen Chesla, -, Peggy Pitney, Betty Orme, Edna Seebode, Ken Yates, Dorothy Yates, Harry Silvers and Sue Shannon. Also in attendance were six guests: Carol Suplee, Jim Suplee, Sarah Robbins, Karen Robbins, Lynn Mullen and Jim Mullen.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $14,595.70. Deposits totaled $98.74, while there were no debits .The ending balance was $14,694.44.
OLD BUSINESS
Approval was given for reimbursement to Ann Franzen for $50.62 for the Historical Society banner we ordered.
On October 13 volunteers cleaned the Pepper House. Special thanks were given to Jim and Carolyn Cuviello, Peg Pitney, Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and Jackie Krantz.
The President reported that work is expected to start soon on replacing the Pepper House roof with new charcoal gray shingles. She also said that the program previously scheduled for our December meeting has been postponed until February.
NEW BUSINESS
Mary Ann Silvers presented the 2016 Budget. Members were asked to review it for approval at the next meeting. She also announced the donation of a kitchen hutch and an arm chair by Betty and Mike Hogan.
The Tabernacle PTA Community Night will be on November 13. Help is needed to man the table. On December 4 the Community Tree Lighting will be held with the partial sponsorship of the Historical Society. All are encouraged to attend.
After our business was concluded we had a presentation by a guest speaker, Carol Suplee on the Native American, the Quakers and the early days of Willingboro. Afterwards, Mrs. Suplee autographed copies of her books for our members.
The next meeting will be held on December 10. There were no volunteers for refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 PM.
October 8, 2015
The October meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 12 members present: Ann Franzen, Irene Abrams, Jackie Krantz, Dee Collins, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, James Cuviello , Bob Boer, Eileen Chesla, Judith Witowski- Argentine, Peggy Pitney and Sue Shannon.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report showed a beginning balance of $14,629.57. Deposits totaled $13.63, while debits were $47.50. The ending balance was $14,595.70.
OLD BUSINESS
Tabernacle Community Day has been re-scheduled for Oct. 11. Volunteers are needed for this event, and also to clean the Pepper House on Oct. 13.
We continued to review and amend our by-laws in preparation of applying for 501(c)(3) status. The revision of our mission statement in Article II was approved after a motion made by Ann Franzen and seconded by Eileen Chesla. Articles V and Vi were discussed extensively, but not yet adopted.
NEW BUSINESS
The possibility of another Christmas Tea fundraiser was discussed. It was decided that we would not sponsor the Tea this year.
All members are invited to attend a meeting on October 22 to discuss future needs for space in the township.
Mary Ann Silvers announced that speakers have been lined up for the next two meetings. Carol Suplee will speak at the November meeting about Native Americans and the Quakers. The December meeting will feature a presentation by Hal Pschunder on the 150th Anniversary of Lincoln’s Assassination.
The next meeting will be held on November 12. Sue Shannon will provide refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 PM.
September 10, 2015
The September meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 11 members present: Ann Franzen, Irene Abrams, Jackie Krantz, Dee Collins, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, James Cuviello, Carolyn Cuviello, Harry Silvers, BobBoer and Sue Shannon.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report was given by Ann Franzen in the absence of the treasurer. Our beginning balance was $13,097.28. Deposits totaled $3178.12, while debits were $1575.83. The ending balance was $14,699.57.
OLD BUSINESS
The President thanked all those who donated their time, money or both to make our Chicken Barbecue a success. We will be sending the Methodist Church a check for $200 for the use of their hall. Donald Gerber reported that 285 half chickens were ordered and the dinner was sold out. Fewer advance tickets were sold this year, but more were sold at the door. A motion was made by Bob Boer and seconded by Jackie Krantz to reimburse Ann Franzen $20 for tablecloths purchased for the dinner. This motion was passed by the membership.
Mary Ann Silvers reported that the termite problem at the Pepper House has been addressed. The kitchen floor boards were removed so that the underlying soil could be treated. Treatments were also applied for powder post beetles and hornets. The kitchen floor has been put back in place. It was also noted that missing trim on the Cemetery building has been replaced by Steve Scanlon.
NEW BUSINESS
A motion was made by Ann Franzen and seconded by Bob Boer to reimburse Mary Ann $27.50 for the Corporate Annual Report filing. The motion was approved.
The President told us that she spoke at the recent Township Committee meeting in support of a bond issue that will include improvements to the Pepper House.
We will need update By-Laws before we apply for 501(c)(3) status. After much discussion, Articles I, III and IV were amended and approved by the membership. It was decided that Article II and the rest of the By-Laws would be considered at the next meeting.
A date was set for cleaning the Pepper House – October 13 at 9:30 AM. Volunteers are needed.
Tabernacle Community Day is scheduled for October 4. Volunteers are needed to set up and man a table for the Society. The President will be out of town and cannot attend. Ann Franzen volunteered to work the event if someone volunteered to help. We also need a chairperson to research a fundraising Christmas Tea.
The next meeting will be held on October 8. Ann Franzen will provide refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM.
June 11, 2015
The June meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 14 members present: Irene Abrams, Dee Collins, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, Sue Shannon, Betty Gerber, Peggy Pitney, Beverly Gibson, Bob Boer, Eileen Chesla, Judy Argentine, Midge Hangley and Betty Orme.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s Report showed a beginning balance $12,698.06. There was a deposit of $1015.71 from the Strawberry Social, the sale of ornaments and plates, dues and donations. Interest earned was $3.22. Debits included banners, pencils, plants and strawberries for a total of $599.71. The ending balance was $13,114.06.
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported that our $500 scholarship was given to Aleks Hill who worked on the Cemetery project.
Ann Franzen told about the success of this year’s 3rd Grade Tour. 62 children were on the tour given by our guides and the staff of the Town Hall. The children received Historical Society pencils as a souvenier.
The Society celebrated our anniversary at the Memorial Day Parade with a float, new banners and an open house at the Pepper House. Mary Ann presented the memorial wreath from the Society. She also planted geraniums to decorate the Pepper House and Indian Ann’s grave.
Donald Gerber reported on the Strawberry Social. It was moved to the Methodist Church because of threatening weather. A profit of $441.94 was realized this year. There was a discussion about whether to move the event permanently to the Church. We also
brainstormed about alternate, less confusing names for the Strawberry Social. “Strawberry Day” and “Strawberry Celebration” were among the ideas mentioned.
Ann Franzen displayed the newly-purchased banner of the Historical Society. This was purchased from Staples for $50.62.
The President told us about the status of remediating termite damage at the Pepper House. We will need to remove some of the floorboards in the kitchen so that the area can be sprayed and repairs made. The Township will cover this project, although we may need to pay some costs. Donald Gerber made the motion to begin work on the project and to cover any costs not paid by the Township. Bob Boer seconded the motion & the membership approved it. Mary Ann also asked for a motion to have the chimney capped at the Pepper House to keep birds out. This was so moved by Judy Argentibne , seconded by Peg Pitney and carried by the membership.
A Pot Luck Picnic will be held at Donald Gerber’s house on July 9. This dinner will be special, because it will mark our 40th Anniversary.
NEW BUSINESS
We will be represented at the Pine Barrens Festival on the evening of July 25. Volunteers are needed to man the booth and to create an interactive display.
Fund raising ideas were discussed. Amon them are a community Yar Sale, a Historical Tour, an Antique Show and more Dine and Donate nights..
Judy Argentine is working on transcribing some of the Oral Histories in our collection.
The next meeting will be held on July 9 at Donald Gerber’s House to celebrate our 40th Anniversary and to plan the Chicken Barbecue. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM
May 14, 2015
The May meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 13 members present: Edna Seebode, Betsy Piner, Harry Silvers, James Cuviello, Carolyn Cuviello, Irene Abrams, Jackie Krantz, Dee Collins, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, Sue Shannon and Betty Orme.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s Report was given by Vice President Donald Gerber in the absence of Treasurer Peg Pitney. The beginning balance was $13,109.85. There was a deposit of $75 from the Dine and Donate at Upper Crust and also two annual dues were paid for another $10. Interest earned was $3.21. The only debit was $500 for the Seneca scholarship, and the ending balance was $12,698.06.
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported on the $75 profit from the Dine and Donate Night and also on the money sent to Seneca to cover our scholarship.
Harry Silvers told us that Steve Scanlon has offered to make the repairs on the Cemetery building for free. He will raise the building and fix the leak on the corner.
Volunteers were requested to help with the Spring Cleaning at the Pepper House and Friendship School in May. Ann Franzen, Beverly Gibson and Mary Ann Silvers signed up for this.
Ann Franzen relayed the plans for the 3rd Grade Historical Tour we do each year. This year it is scheduled for June 1, with a rain date of June 5. Pencils were purchased as a little souvenir for the kids. They are white with our name in navy print. Donald Gerber made a motion to reimburse Mary Ann Silvers the $108.24 she spent on the pencils. Jackie Krantz seconded, and the motion carried.
A discussion took place on ways to celebrate our 40th Anniversary. Two lawn banners have been purchased. They will be used in the upcoming parade and later will be in front of the Pepper House. Ann Franzen made a motion to reimburse Mary Ann Silvers for the $41.97 spent on the signs. Betty Orme seconded, and the motion carried. A driving Tour of historic sites is also a possibility for the Fall. A planning session for this will occur sometime after the Strawberry Social.
NEW BUSINESS
Plans were discussed for the Memorial Day Parade. We hope to have a float with people dressed in colonial costumes. The Pepper House will be open for tours and we will sell our plates, afghans and ornaments.
Donald Gerber explained what needed to be done for the Strawberry Social. Members were asked to volunteer to bake cakes, cut up strawberries and work during the event. It was agreed that the child’s portion would increase to $3, while all other prices remained the same. We will need to buy hot dogs and rolls as well as table covers.
We received an estimate from Carlson’s Exterminators (Lethal Pest Solutions) to combat termites and carpenter ants in our historic buildings. They quoted us $802.50 each for the Pepper House and the Cemetery, and $321 for the Friendship School. In addition, they offered to do annual pest management (excluding termites) for another $802.50. After a discussion, it was agreed to call another company to bid on this work. In the interim, Ann Franzen will take a carpenter bee trap to the School house.
We are gathering prices for a permanent banner for the Society that we can display at every event.
Another discussion centered on fund-raising ideas. Ann Franzen will explore the historic tour idea, while Mary Ann Silvers will research an antique show and Edna Seebode will look into a yard sale for the community.
The next meeting will be held on June 11. Betty Orme volunteered to bring refreshments. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM
April 9, 2015
The April meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 11 members present: Irene Abrams, Dee Collins, Edna Seebode, Betty Gerber, Betty Orme, Sue Shannon, Bev Gibson, Bob Boer, Harry Silvers, Don Gerber, and Mary Ann Silvers. There were also 2 visitors at the meeting: Bruce Powell and Joe Barton.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report was given by Mary Ann Silvers in the absence of Peg Pitney with a beginning balance of $13,106.51. The income was only the March checking account interest payment of $3.34 with no expenditures bringing the balance to $13,109.85.
OLD BUSINESS
Insurance payment was received by Franklin Insurance Co. and the 2015 policy was issued with a statement of “additional insured” sent to the Tabernacle Township for proof of our insurance.
Dine and Donate Nite did not have the expected turn out as the last time. Mary Ann is still waiting for the check from Upper Crust with an approximate total of $60.
Ava Silvers will not be redoing the signs for the Strawberry Social due to the largeness of the project.
Scholarship money will be sent to Seneca High School in the amount of $500.
NEW BUSINESS
Spring Cleaning of the Pepper House and the Friendship Schoolhouse will take place the week of May 11. Bev Gibson and Mary Ann Silvers have volunteered to clean.
The THS will be having its 40th Anniversary this year. A committee was formed to come up with ideas to celebrate this event. Sue Shannon and Mary Ann Silvers were the first to join this committee.
Further business was discussed as follows:
The Burlington County Board of Freeholders have sent out notices of applications for their Historic Preservation Recognition Program. Mary Ann Silvers placed the name of Aleks Hill in nomination for this honor. Aleks Hill was the young man who worked on his Eagle Scout Project at the Tabernacle Cemetery righting and cleaning the headstones and drawing up a chart of the burial plots with names and dates in Oct. 2014.
Mary Ann brought up the idea of having the Pepper House and other buildings in our care looked at by an exterminator. Donald Gerber suggested that Mary Ann look in the past minutes to when it was done last. The exterminator used then was Carlson’s Exterminators.
Edna Seebode will bring refreshments to the May’s meeting.
The meeting was adjorned at 8:00pm.
Edna Seebode presented her husband’s life work and passion of model making and carving by talking and showing us his work through pictures.
Submitted by
Mary Ann Silvers for Ann Franzen
March 12, 2015
The March meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 15 members present: Penny Jones, Irene Abrams, Dee Collins, Dot Yates, Edna Seebode, Carolyn Cuviello, Bob Boer, Harry Silvers, Bruce Powell, Peggy Pitney, Don Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, Sue Shannon and Bev Gibson. There were also 6 visitors at the meeting: Bert Butts, Janet Wolf, Peggy Singer, Jim D’Aloia, and Marlene D’Aloia.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer reported a beginning balance of $14,222.96. There were 4 items of income and 3 interest payments totaling $45.55. The sole expenditure was $1162.00 for insurance, leaving an ending balance of $13,106.51.
OLD BUSINESS
Ann Franzen reported on a follow-up meeting of the Tree Lighting Committee held on Jan. 15. Those present reviewed the success of the inaugural event and discussed plans for next year. The next meeting has not be scheduled, but will be in Spring or early summer.
NEW BUSINESS
The insurance bill has been paid. The Tabernacle School District will be adding the Friendship School (which stands on school district property) to their insurance policy. We will continue to carry the school on our policy as well. Donald Gerber asked if we need to list the Tree Lighting event on our policy as the Strawberry Social is listed.
Our application to use the Town Hall has been filed and is pending a copy of the insurance policy listing the township as “other insured”.
We will be giving a $500 scholarship to a graduate of Seeca High School who meets our criteria.
Steve Scanlon has been consulted about the repairs needed to the right outbuilding at the Tabernacle Cemetery
A dine & Donate night is to be held at Upper Crust on March 23. The restaurant will donate 15% of the orders to our Society.
Mary Ann reported that her granddaughter, Ava Silvers, will be re-painting the Strawberry Social signs as part of a service project. A sample of the work will be available at the next meeting.
The 3rd Grade Tour has been scheduled for June 1, with a raindate of June5. Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers, Beverly Gibson, and Peg Pitney have volunteered for the day.
The next meeting will take place on April 9. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55, and refreshments and a program followed. Bruce Powell presented a talk entitled “Through My Father’s Eyes” which featured memorabilia, dioramas and models related to his father’s service in World War II.
December 11, 2014
The December meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:45 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 10 members present: Harry Silvers, Bob Boer, Sue Shannon, Beverly Gibson, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, Peggy Pitney, Judy Argentine and Midge Hangley.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
OLD BUSINESS
We received a check from P.J. Whelihan’s for $90 from the Dine and Donate we held there on Nov. 19, 2014.
Ann Franzen reported on the success of the first Community Tree Lighting held on Dec. 5, 2014, which was co-sponsored by the Historical Society, the Woman’s Association and the PTA. It was well attended and well-received. Many of our members contributed baked goods or volunteered their time at the event.
Mary Ann Silvers informed us about the outcome of the Christmas Tea held at the New Leaf Tea Room on Dec. 11, 2014. She said that 22 people attended the Tea which gave us a profit of $133.98. We also sold chances on a giant candy bar. This generated a profit of $22. Total money earned from the event was $155.98.
NEW BUSINESS
The President presented the yearly budget for approval by the membership. A motion was made by Bob Boer to approve the $5,525 budget. After a second by Beverly Gibson, the motion carried by voice vote.
A donation was received from Joan Spaeth Harper of historic photos, booklets and a plate. The photos are of the Tabernacle Friendship School which was located on the Spaeth family property. Ms. Harper has been thanked by the President for her generosity to the Society. Judy Argentine volunteered to copy the photos so that they can be saved in a digital form.
The next meeting will be held on March 12, 2015, as we have no meetings scheduled for January or February. Beverly Gibson offered to provide refreshments. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM and refreshments were served.
Nov. 13, 2014
The November meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by the flag salute and moment of silence. There were 14 members present: Ann Franzen, Peggy Pitney, Betty Orme, Irene Abrams, Dee Collins, Betty Gerber, Donald Gerber, Flossy Worrell, Harry Worrell, Sue Shannon, Mary Ann Silvers, Harry Silvers, Bob Boer and Edna Seebode. There were also a number of guests.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
OLD BUSINESS
The two scout projects were reviewed and certificates of appreciation were given to the scouts who worked on the Friendship School (Patrick Boegley and Jacob Boris) and the scout who supervised the cemetery restoration (Aleks Hill). A motion was made by Donald Gerber to reimburse Aleks Hill $381.98 for materials used on the tombstones. Edna Seebode seconded the motion and the members approved .
Peg Pitney, Mary Ann Silvers and Ann Franzen dusted and swept the Pepper House on Tuesday, October 21.
The Dine and Donate night at Upper Crust on Oct. 27 was a success. We received a check for $105.74 and are considering another event there in the New Year. The next Dine and Donate night is scheduled for P. J. Whelihans on Nov. 19.
Another upcoming fundraiser is a Christmas Tea to be held at the New Leaf Tea Room on Dec. 11.
Ann Franzen reported that plans are being finalized for the Community Tree Lighting that we are co-sponsoring with the Woman’s Association and the PTA on Dec. 5. Donations of baked goods are needed for that night.
NEW BUSINESS
We received a donation from Cliff and Betty Wills for $50 to be used toward the cemetery upkeep. They have a relative buried there. There was also a $3 donation from a friend who could not attend our Dine and Donate night.
The next meeting will be held on Dec. 11 at Town Hall at 7:30 PM. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 PM. A presentation followed by Bob Boer on the life of a Civil War soldier.
Oct. 9, 2014
The October meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM followed by a flag salute and moment of silence. There were 15 members present: Dee Collins, Edna Seebode, Irene Abrams, Betty Orme, Penny Jones, Bob Boer, Harry Silvers, Wilma Davison, Ken Spencer, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, Donald Gerber, Betty Gerber, Peggy Pitney and Sue Shannon. There was also a guest – Aleks Hill. The minutes of the September 11 meeting were read and approved.
The President reported that there was a Historians’ Roundtable held on Sept. 20 at Batsto. A small group of 15 were impressed with the antique furnishings in the Wharton Mansion.
OLD BUSINESS
Mary Ann reported that repairs were partially done on the Friendship School, and a partial payment was made to CMB with a letter requesting that further work be done.
SCOUT PROJECT – SCHOOLHOUSE
Work has begun on the school. Trim has been repaired and loose paint scraped.
SCOUT PROJECT – CEMETERY
Aleks Hill presented his plans for righting and cleaning the tombstones. He and his volunteers will do this work during the weekend of Oct. 25-26.
CANVAS MIXER
Judy Witowski-Argentine has researched this idea. Since she was not present, discussion on it was tabled until the next meeting.
DINE AND DONATE
Certificates were distributed for a Dine and Donate night at Upper Crust on Oct. 27. Certificates were distributed which, if used on that night, will give the THS 15% of the diners’ bill. Another of these events is planned for P.J. Whelihans in Medford Lakes on Nov. 19.
CHRISTMAS TEA
It was proposed that we sponsor a tea at the New Leaf Tearoom in Riverton to be held on Dec. 11. The motion was made by Ann Franzen, seconded by Sue Shannon, and carried by voice vote.
TREE LIGHTING EVENT
A committee composed of members of our organization and the Tabernacle Women’s Association has met twice. Plans are underway for this event to be held on Dec. 5 at 7 PM. All members will be asked to provide refreshments.
NEW BUSINESS
A beautiful parlor stove has been donated to us by Wilma Davison and Ken Spencer and installed in the Pepper House. A thank-you note was sent and they were again thanked in person at the meeting.
A calendar for 2014-15 was debated and approved by the membership.
The next meeting will be held at Town Hall on Nov. 13 at 7:30 PM. There will be a program by member Bob Boer on the life of a Civil War soldier. Ann Franzen will provide refreshments. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM.
September 11, 2014
The September meeting was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM followed by a flag salute and moment of silence. There were 9 members present: Ann Franzen, Beverly Gibson, Sue Shannon, Bob Boer, Don Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Judy Argentine, Peggy Pitney and Betty Orme. The minutes of the June 12 and July 10 meetings were read and approved.
The President reported that a Historians Roundtable is scheduled for September 20 at Batsto.
OLD BUSINESS
The fourth and fifth installments of the Insurance bill were paid to Frankin Insurance for a total of $1251.
Mary Ann Silvers and Ann Franzen spoke at a meeting of the Young at Heart Club on June 25th. We brought artifacts and pictures to display. Two new members were added to our Society. A thank you note was received from the President of the Young at Heart Club.
The County Historian, Joe Laufer passed away recently. A sympathy card was sent to his family.
NEW BUSINESS We have filed our annual corporation report. A motion was made by Donald Gerber and seconded by Betty Orme to reimburse Mary Ann for the $25 fee she paid. The motion was approved.
Two donations were recently received. One was for $50 from Dan Franzen in honor of his mother’s birthday; the other was for $10 from a friend who could not attend the Barbecue.
CMB General Contractors will fix a hole in the soffit on the right side of the Friendship School and add flashing to the chimney for $575.
Boy Scouts have volunteered to paint the outside window frames and the door and door frame of the Friendship School. They will also replace the trim on two exterior window frames on the front right side of the building and trim on the front left side. Ernie Bogley will supervise the scouts and Steve Scanlon will donate the materials needed. The scouts – Adam Argentine, Jacob Boris and Patrick Bogley will begin the work in a few weeks.
Another scout, Aleks Hill, wishes to work on a project cleaning the headstones in the Old Cemetery.
A meeting was held on July 30 at the home of Wilma Davison to discuss planning a tree lighting event in Tabernacle. Mary Ann, Wilma Davison and Ann represented THS, and there were several representatives of the Tabernacle Women’s Association. It was agreed that the two groups would co-sponsor the event and a tentative division of tasks was made. This will be pending approval of the Township Committee. There will be another meeting at Mary Ann’s house on September 18.
Fundraising ideas were discussed. There was some interest in a Christmas Tea, a restaurant Dine and Donate and a Painting Party. A possible antique show as also mentioned. All possibilities need further research.
The next meeting will be held at Town Hall on October 9 at 7:30. Betty Orme volunteered to bring refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM.
July 10, 2014
A special dinner meeting of the Tabernacle Historical Society was held on the above date at the home of our Vice-President, Donald Gerber. Donald began the evening at 6 PM with a prayer. This was followed by a dinner with many delicious dishes provided by the members.
At 7 PM the business part of the meeting began. Donald handed out posters and tickets and reviewed plans for the upcoming Chicken Barbecue. Members were asked to pre-sell as many tickets as possible. Last year we sold 224 tickets in advance and 59 at the door. For 2014 we ordered 10 more chicken halves and hope to presell around 220.
The chicken Barbecue will be on August 3 at the Methodist Church. Members were asked to arrive around 12:30 to prepare for the event. On August 2, we will meet at Betty Gerber’s house to shuck corn for the next day.
Present at the dinner were Dee Collins, Jackie Krantz, Edna Seebode, Donald Gerber, Dorothy Yates, Ken Yates, Betty Gerber, Betty Orme, Irene Abrams and Ann and Rick Franzen. The dinner was over about 8 PM. The next regular meeting will be on September 11 at 7:30 PM at the Town Hall.
June 12, 2014
The regular monthly meeting of the Tabernacle Historical Society was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM, followed by a flag salute and moment of silence. There were 14 members present: Peggy Pitney, Irene Abrams, Dee Collins, Betty Gerber, Donald Gerber, Mary Ann Silvers, Ann Franzen, Ken Yates, Dorothy Yates, Midge Hangley, Judy Witowski-Argentine, Bob Boer, Harry Silvers and Betty Orme. The minutes of the May 8 meeting were read and approved.
OLD BUSINESS
The President reported that a third installment on our insurance bill was paid, but that we still do not have a copy of the policy as amended this year. Ken Yates offered to go to the insurance agent and obtain this.
Our scholarship recipient, Elizabeth Raffo was present along with her parents. We congratulated her and she thanked us for our generosity. She also told us about her future plans.
Mary Ann revealed that we won 2nd place in the Memorial Day Parade and received a check for $25. She requested reimbursement of $74.70 for supplies used on the float and for the wreath. Ken Yates made a motion to this effect. It was seconded by Irene Abrams and passed by voice vote.
Donald Gerber reported on the Strawberry Social. Murphy’s Market gave us a $100 gift card towards supplies and Russo’s sold us the strawberries at cost. Both have been sent thank you notes. 133 people were served, and the profit was $651. The President gave special thanks to all who help with the event including Judy Argentine, who provided the Victrola, and Betsy Piner, who coordinated the Carranza video. She requested reimbursement of $25 for additional supplies. The motion was made by Don Gerber, seconded by Ken Yates and was passed. Ann Franzen also requested reimbursement of $25 for tablecloths. This was moved by Ken Yates and seconded by Midge Hangley. The motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS
A donation was received from Washington Orme of a panoramic photograph taken at the dedication ceremony for the Carranza Monument. A letter of thanks was sent by the President. Harry Silvers displayed an enlarged an enhanced copy he had made from this photograph. He requested reimbursement of $31.98 for expenses incurred in making 3 copies for the Society. The motion was made by Ken Yates, seconded by Bob Boer and passed by the members.
Mary Ann and Ann will present a program to the Pinelands Young At Heart Club on June 25 on the history of Tabernacle. They will take some artifacts to display, and will encourage new members to join.
Dining for Dollars was discussed as a fundraiser, but research needs to be done before plans can be made.
The next meeting will be held at the home of Donald Gerber on July 10 at 6 PM. Plans will be made for the Chicken Barbecue in August, and members are asked to bring a covered dish or dessert.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM.
May 8, 2014
The regular monthly meeting of the Tabernacle Historical Society was held on the above date at the Tabernacle Town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM, followed by a flag salute and moment of silence. There were fourteen members and two guests present: Beverly Gibson, Irene Abrams, Dee Collins, Betty Gerber, Midge Hangley, Bob Boer, Harry Silvers, Jackie Krantz, Edna Seebode, Don Gerber, Renee Heiss, Doug Heiss, Judith Witowski-Argentine, Peggy Pitney, Ann Franzen and Mary Ann Silvers. The minutes of the Apri 10 meeting were read and approved. There was a Thank You note read from the Lees Family thanking us for our donation in Robert Lees’ memory to the Bell Tower Fund of the United Methodist Church.
OLD BUSINESS
It was reported that the Pepper House and Friendship School were cleaned on April 24th and 25th and that the Tabernacle 3rd Graders were given an historic tour of our town on May 2. Volunteers for this event were: Peg Pitney, Ann Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and Jackie Krantz.
Beverly Gibson volunteered the services of Lise Trinkle to photograph the historic building on Camp Inawendawin property before it is demolished.
Donald Gerber reported on plans for the Strawberry Social. It will be held on June 7 from 2PM to 5PM. We will need a lot of volunteers to work at the event, as well as donations of cakes and cool whip. Various discussions took place. Midge Hangley said that her son’s band would play at the Social for free. A motion was made by Beverly Gibson and seconded by Judy Witowski-Argentine to raise the price of an adult serving of cake, cool whip and strawberries to $5.00. The motion carried.
The Memorial Day Parade was discussed. We will have a float in it honoring Bob Lees, we will present a wreath during the ceremony, and we will have the Pepper House open during the festivities.
NEW BUSINESS
We will be awarding a $250 scholarship to a Seneca graduate who lives in Tabernacle and shows some interest in History.
We have found and distributed working keys to the Friendship School.
Mary Ann reported that she had the basket created by Indian Ann appraised and found that it has little monetary value because it lacks documentation.
Donald Gerber said that the Chicken Barbecue will be held on August 3rd from 2 to 6 PM. After some discussion, a motion was made by Peggy Pitney and seconded by Judy Witowski-Argentine to increase the number of chicken halves ordered to 285. The motion carried.
Midge Hangley and Judy Witowski-Argentine volunteered to bring dessert to the June 12 meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:48 and a program followed by Renee Heiss on the books she has authored and the process of getting a book published.
April 10, 2014
The regular monthly meeting of the Tabernacle Historical Society was held on the above date at the town Hall. The President called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM, followed by a flag salute and moment of silence. There were fourteen members present: Irene Abrams, Dee Collins, Donald Gerber, Beverly Gibson, Jackie Krantz, Edna Seebode, Betsy Piner, Judy-Witowski-Argentine, Harry Silvers, Bob Boer, Peggy Pitney, Midge Hangley, Ann Franzen and Mary Ann Silvers. The minutes of the March 13 meeting were read and approved. There was a Thank You note read from the Lees family
Mary Ann reminded members of a historic tea to be held at Peachfield. She had two tickets that were available for purchase.
OLD BUSINESS
Mary Ann questioned the donation to the Kidney Foundation that was approved at the last meeting in memory of Bob Lees. She pointed out that the family had named different charities. After a brief discussion, it was decided to send our check to the Tabernacle Methodist Church for the bell tower fund.
She also reported that the work had been completed by CMB on the Pepper House, and that a balance of $745.00 was due. Approval was granted to pay this amount.
Mary Ann and Ann went to the insurance agent, Rich O’Neal, to make changes to our policy. The changes are as follows:
PEPPER HOUSE (LOCATION #1)
We were able to drop the fire insurance this year, as the Township will cover it. We will have a $1 million in limited liability with the township named as additional insured and $26,000 comprehensive insurance on the contents.
FRIENDSHIP SCHOOL (LOCATION #2)
Also insured for $1 million in liability with $30,000 comprehensive insurance on the building and $10,400 on the contents.
TABERNACLE CEMETERY (LOCATION #3)
We have $1 million in liability coverage, but will investigate the cost of covering the two buildings and the arch for fire. This is complicated by the fact that we built one building and the arch, but do not own the land and have no deed to the property.
There is a bill due for the next installment of our insurance bill. Mary Ann will pay this on April 15.
Spring Cleaning of the Pepper House and the Friendship School was set for April 25 and 26.
The 3rd Grade Historic Tour is set for Friday May 2. Those who volunteered as docents were: Peg Pitney (schoolhouse), Ann Franzen (Carranza Monument), Bev Gibson (Cemetery), Mary Ann Silvers and Jackie Krantz (Pepper House). Another volunteer would be helpful to assist at Town Hall.
The Strawberry Social date cannot be set until the May meeting, so further discussion of plans for this was tabled until then.
NEW BUSINESS
A favorable story in the Tabernacle Sun was presented at the meeting. Although none of the officers were interviewed for the story, the overall result was very good.
The Memorial Day Parade is set for May 24. After some discussion, it was agreed that we would participate and would present a wreath. Harry Silvers has donated the use of his antique truck which we will decorate with a patriotic theme and in honor of Bob Lees.
Beverly Gibson reported on the pending destruction of an old mill building on the Girl Scout property. Betsy Piner will check on the legality of this razing with the Pinelands Commission.
The next meeting will be held on May 8 at 7:30. There will be a program by Renee Heiss, a teacher/author who wrote Woodie’s World about her father growing up during the depression.
Bev Gibson volunteered to bring dessert.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 and a program followed by Bob Boer on “The Jersey Soldier during the Revolutionary War”.
March 13, 2014
The regular monthly meeting was held on the above date at the Town Hall. No meeting was scheduled for January, and the February 13 meeting was cancelled due to weather conditions. Vice-President Donald Gerber called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM, followed by the flag salute and a moment of silence in memory of Bob Lees. Bob was a member of our Society who contributed greatly to our work over the years. There were nine members present: Donald Gerber, Irene Abrams, Betty Gerber, Dee Collins, Edna Seebode, Betty Orme. Bob Boer, Ann Franzen and Peg Pitney. Also present were four visitors: Eileen Chesla, Jan Adamski, Wendy Reilly and her son
The minutes of the December 12 meeting were read and approved.
A handout was distributed from the County about upcoming historical events, and members were asked to keep the ailing County Historian, Joe Laufer in their thoughts.
OLD BUSINESS
Donald Gerber reported on a meeting he attended along with Ann Franzen, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and Harry Silvers and representatives of the Newcombe Active Home Services Team on February 5. The company gave us an estimate on restoration work at the Pepper House. It is hoped that there will be some funding coming from the Township toward this project. Donald also reported that the same group met with Township Administrator, Doug Cramer, on February 21 at the Pepper House to survey the work that needs to be done. It was agreed that the THS will apply for 501C3 status so that we will be eligible for grant money. Kim Brown will be working on this for us. It was noted that there is an immediate problem of a chimney leak.
Ann Franzen reported that on March 11 a representative of CMB Contractors met with her, Rick Franzen, Mary Ann Silvers and Harry Silvers at the Pepper House to give an estimate on the cost of emergency repairs that need to be done. Subsequently, an estimate was received of $845 from CMB. Since we have dedicated $500 in our budget for maintenance, a motion was made by Bob Boer and seconded by Edna Seebode to spend this amount for the emergency repairs. An additional motion was made by Edna Seebode and seconded by Bob Boer to spend the additional $345 from the treasury to pay for the needed repairs. Both motions carried.
Members were thanked for their response to our survey of priorities for the Pepper House. As a result of the survey, the long term restoration will focus on either the windows or the roof as the first projects.
NEW BUSINESS
The Vice President explained the current situation with our insurance policy. The policy is up for renewal, but the Society has some questions about our coverage. After some discussion, it was decided that the Society needs to increase the coverage of the contents of the Pepper House and decrease the coverage on contents of the Friendship School. In addition, we should add liability coverage on the cemetery buildings. The insurance agent, Rich O’Neal suggested that the officers be covered for liability up to $1 million. This suggestion was tabled for now, but a motion made by Bob Boer and seconded by Betty Gerber to pay the balance of the insurance bill was approved.
Ann Franzen reported that we have seven photos relating to our schools that we could frame and hang in the Friendship School. Betty Orme made a motion to spend $100 for this project as well as any additional money that may be required specifically for this purpose. The motion was seconded by Irene Abrams and passed by voice vote.
Ann also reported that the Third Grade Tour is scheduled for May 2 (raindate May 27), and that volunteers are still needed for this as well as for the Spring clean-up to be done beforehand. A date for the clean-up will be announced later.
A discussion followed about future activities. Donald explained that the date for the Strawberry Festival will probably be May 31, but that he will know better after talking to the farmers closer to the date. Women’s Club representative, Eileen Chesla relayed a suggestion that we join forces for a tree lighting ceremony next December. A planning session in June may be scheduled for this project.
Edna Seebode made a motion to donate $50 from the Society in memory of Bob Lees to the Kidney Foundation. This was seconded by Irene Abrams and approved by the members.
The next meeting is scheduled for April 10, 2014 with a program to follow by Bob Boer, our Revolutionary War re-enactor. Betty Orme will provide the refreshments.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45. While refreshments were served, Ann Franzen shared historical photos from our collection.
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Tabernacle Historical Society 