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Aldermen approve placing Frederick Douglass portrait next to existing plaque in chambers
Summary
Board members voted to place a portrait of Frederick Douglass next to a plaque in the Aldermanic Chambers commemorating Douglass’s 1854 speech in Manchester; Stan from the Manchester Heritage organization described the plaque’s origins and historical research.
The Manchester Board of Mayor & Aldermen approved placing a portrait of Frederick Douglass next to an existing plaque in the Aldermanic Chambers that commemorates Douglass’s 1854 speech in the city.
Stan, representing the Manchester heritage group that researched local Black history, told the board the plaque resulted from his research showing that Douglass spoke in Manchester and that the marker was funded through a CIP grant. Stan said the plaque cost about $800 and described its historical basis: “Frederick Douglass spoke here, not in this place, this hall because it wasn't here then… he was invited in by the mayor and alderman at that time to speak here.”
Board members discussed placement and size; Stan and maintenance staff said they would examine the best location for the portrait and coordinate with the plaque. Alderman Long moved to approve placing a portrait near the plaque; Alderman Cantor seconded. The motion passed by voice vote.
Ending: Staff or the heritage group will research suitable portraits and return a recommended image and placement to board members for final approval or confirm by email, as discussed in the meeting.
