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Beinecke family proposes updated plaque; historical commission offers support
Summary
The commission reviewed a proposal from the Beinecke family to replace a bronze memorial plaque for Walter Beinecke on New Whale Street (near Old South Wharf) with a new relief plaque; commissioners signaled informal support and agreed to provide a letter of endorsement to the family and the sign advisory council.
Holly Backus presented a proposal on April 18 from the Beinecke family to replace the bronze Walter Beinecke memorial plaque located on New Whale (New Whale?) Street between Old South Wharf and Straight Wharf. The proposed replacement would keep the existing stone base, retain the plaque text, and add a brass relief depicting architectural and natural elements associated with Walter Beinecke’s work.
Commissioners reviewed images included in the packet and said the proposed plaque looked more detailed and appropriate than the current marker. Mary Bergman of the Nantucket Preservation Trust encouraged wider review but did not object to the replacement. Commissioners asked staff to prepare a letter of support for the family and to note the project will also go to the town’s Sign Advisory Council for review. Holly Backus said she intends to attend the Sign Advisory Council meeting on the family’s behalf.
No formal vote was recorded; commissioners expressed support for the replacement and looked forward to a rededication ceremony planned for October.
