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Committee discusses Heritage House schedule, De Anza reenactment plaques and ideas for 70th anniversary medallions
Summary
The History Committee reviewed Heritage House furnishing budgets and an updated schedule, debated wording and placement for two 1976 Anza reenactment plaques (including possibilities to add explanatory text or QR codes), and explored medallions or challenge coins as low-cost commemorative items for the town’s 70th anniversary.
The History Committee received a progress update on the Heritage House restoration and furnishings and discussed a range of commemoration projects, including the fate of two 1976 Anza reenactment plaques and options for town anniversary medallions.
Committee members reported the Heritage House opening had shifted to around April 1 while finishing work — including wiring and staining — continues. The committee has authorized a hand-built conference table at an estimated $10,000 and allocated an additional $5,000 for matching chairs; the town will pay for the chairs and staff will coordinate storage and installation logistics.
Members reviewed two 1976 Anza reenactment plaques that were removed after questions about the accuracy of their placement. Some members called the plaques misleading, arguing they implied the expedition passed at exact locations; others said wording such as "near here" or an explanatory QR code could provide historical context. The group discussed options including (a) reinstallation with revised wording, (b) a rededication tied to America250 with a short explanatory plaque, or (c) a lower-cost plastic plaque affixed to existing rocks. Volunteers planned to photograph the existing plaques and submit images for committee review.
Separately, a guest with numismatic experience described low-cost medallion and challenge-coin options for the town's 70th anniversary and suggested a design contest or limited sales as a fundraising option. Committee members discussed production lead times, materials, and modest budgets, and agreed the coin/medallion idea merited further study for a multi-year rollout tied to a broader written town history project.
Next steps: committee members will gather photographs of existing Anza plaques for review, staff will continue Heritage House coordination and furnish procurement, and a small sub-group will explore costs and vendors for potential medallions or challenge coins for future anniversaries.
