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Commission approves edited language for DeCosta house marker; family member thanks commission
Summary
The Commission approved edited wording for the DeCosta house marker after commissioners and family representatives worked to tighten text to fit plaque character limits; Gail DeCosta, the granddaughter, thanked the commission and the marker will be finalized for production.
The History Commission approved edited wording for a marker recognizing the DeCosta Company and family, concluding a line-by-line edit to fit character constraints while preserving key historical facts. Commissioners recommended trimming redundant phrases and agreed on spelling and century notation so the plaque would fit within the available space.
Gail DeCosta, granddaughter of Herbert A. DeCosta Sr. and Jr., addressed the commission and suggested condensed wording for the final line, such as "was based at 93 Spring Street until it was sold in 1988." She said the marker is "a real, real honor for our family." Commissioners clarified that 93 Spring Street referred to the business address and discussed whether employment counts or other details would require archival confirmation; staff noted that detailed employment figures would need further research in archival records.
A commissioner moved to approve the edited 'side 1' language as amended; the commission called the question and members voiced "aye." The transcript records unanimous voice approval but does not show a roll-call numeric tally. The commission thanked family and staff and discussed the possibility of an unveiling event when the marker is installed.
