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Mansfield HRC weighs options to protect Witness Stones after repeated plaque damage
Summary
Commissioners heard that three Witness Stones at the library have been replaced multiple times and discussed relocating them, installing a protective shadow box or slanted panel, and coordinating with facilities and the NAACP on conservation and interpretive steps.
Members received an update on the town's Stopping Stones and Witness Stones project and discussed ways to protect deteriorating plaques at the library.
According to the update, the three witness stones have been replaced at least twice and are currently embedded in a decorative white-stone area near the library entrance, where repeated wear and weathering have caused damage. Commission members and staff said consulting facilities and the program collaborators will be needed to evaluate refurbishing, replacing, or raising the plaques on a slanted panel or in a shadow box to prevent foot traffic and reduce wear.
The commission noted the project involves collaboration with the NAACP and that communications with program contacts (referred to in the meeting as Maria and Pat Wilson) are ongoing to determine procurement and placement options and to estimate costs. Members suggested adding signage and bringing the project binder kept at the library's central desk more prominently into public view.
No formal preservation motion was made at the meeting; members tasked staff with following up with facilities and the program contacts to produce cost estimates and placement options for review at a future meeting.
