Yarmouth Historical Commission advances Revolutionary War markers, moves forward on town-wide archaeology survey and signage RFQ

The Yarmouth Historical Commission met Feb. 12 and heard updates on several preservation projects, including the fabrication and planned installation of Revolutionary War grave markers, selection of a contractor for the monument’s foundation work, and the preparation of two RFQs — one for a town-wide archaeological reconnaissance survey and another for interpretive historic signage.

Vice Chair Bob Kelley told the commission that vendor John Fougere has fabricated about 20 SAR grave markers and expects to install them in March; he said the markers will be about eight inches deep and weigh roughly 60 pounds and that the Town will not set them in concrete to meet local requirements. "He expects them to be installed in March," Kelley said. Bill Bullock will assist with the installation of the first markers to ensure they are flush with the ground, per the Town’s standard.

On the Revolutionary War monument, Kelley summarized RFQ responses for the monument’s foundation. DPW engineer Nate Whetten told commissioners that while the lowest bid was the least expensive, that bidder did not demonstrate the necessary experience; Whetten recommended the second-lowest bidder, contractor John Vozzella, citing prior work with sculptor Robert Shure. Vozzella has accepted the assignment and Procurement is preparing the contract. Chair Julie Mockabee told the commission the Intermediate School parking lot is reserved for June 20 for an event related to the monument and said a handicapped-accessible bus will be available; Kelley said traffic flow and overflow parking at the park and Ancient Cemetery remain concerns.

Commissioners also reviewed plans for a town-wide archaeological reconnaissance survey. Chair Mockabee said the RFQ was sent to three vendors; the project was authorized with CPA funds approved in 2019 (the CPA timeframe was later extended), and the survey is expected to take about 12 months with final reports anticipated in summer 2027. The vendor will provide a redacted public report and a secure, nonpublic report that omits sensitive site locations to prevent amateur disturbance.

The Commission continued work on an RFQ for interpretive historic signage. Staff reported CEDC and CPA funds will cover the first round of 18 signs; another CPA request will be needed to fund the remaining 14–15 prioritized signs. Director Dave Condon of the Department of Natural Resources will advise on placing signs along Town Ways to Water and at Packet Landing; locations on town-owned land will require Select Board approval, and signs on private parcels will require owner permission and an easement.

Commissioners reviewed a prioritized sign list with per-sign cost estimates (typical smaller signs listed at $1,740, larger 6x2 signs at $3,480, and some at $1,365) and an itemized subtotal for the items shown of $33,675. Sample locations discussed included Judah Baker Windmill, Crowell’s Pier, Long Pond (Fish Company), Baxter Grist Mill and related features, Packet Landing, and the Ancient Cemetery; staff will finalize the list and sizes to include in the RFQ so bidders understand scope.

Other business included a request from Commissioner David Geanacopoulos to compile a list of notable Route 28 buildings for potential preservation review and a reminder of a Community Preservation Committee meeting on Feb. 25 to review CPA applications and provide required project updates. Staff reported Commissioner Jeanette Maillet joined the meeting by Zoom. Associate Commissioner Sam Lawrence moved to approve the Jan. 9 meeting minutes; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Geanacopoulos and passed unanimously, 4-0-0. Chair Mockabee moved to adjourn; the motion passed unanimously and the meeting ended at 10:45 a.m.

Next steps: staff will finalize the RFQ language and sign list for Select Board and property-owner approvals as needed; Procurement will finalize the contract with Vozzella for the monument foundation. No formal votes were recorded on the monument contract or RFQs during this meeting.