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Last year the CPRA received its Vermont Agency of Transportation enhancement grant of $20,000 for the purpose of ascertaining the feasibility of placing the Crown Point Road on the National Register of Historic Places. After receiving several bids from interested firms the preservation committee selected GEOARCH, INC. of Leicester to conduct research, documentation and preparation of the required National Register nomination form. Their work has been greatly facilitated by the availability of the CPRA archives and the knowledge and assistance of historian Al Ransom
Almost two-thirds of the work has been completed, with field research awaiting spring weather The original plan to nominate the old Socialborough section of the road has been expanded to extend from the south line of Brandon to the west line of Shrewsbury.
This seemed more practical in that Socialborough is an archaic New York township later ignored by Vermont mapmakers. However, New York surveyor Cockburn's points of reference on the road will still provide pnmary documentation. Socialborough included portions of the present towns of Clarendon, Rutland Town, Rutland City, Proctor and Pittsford.
The two public meetings were held as required and only two landowners raised any concern. These concerns seemed to be allayed when it was explained that the National Register places no development restrictions on landowners.
Kathleen Callum and Robert Sloma of GEOARCH have on their team historian Donald Wickman and the firm of Louis Berger Group.
In conjunction with the new research being conducted on the Crown Point Road a number of people have come forward with articles of historic interest they have found in the road’s vicinity. These are items such as a bullet mold, cannon balls, ox shoes and agricultural tools. The Association would be very interested in inspecting and photographing any artifacts found on or near the road. This would be most helpful in documentation of the road’s history through dating of the object’s origin and its location.
We would seek permission to authenticate and photograph any object loaned to us. It would be important to know as near as possible the date and location of the "find." Also valuable to the Association would be documents (deeds, wills, etc.) mentioning location or use of the road as well as any "word of mouth" history. We know that many of our members have ancestors who came to Vermont via the Crown Point Road and settled beside it. If you can help call Elaine Purdy (802-773-6819) or any other officer.
Officers and directors will continue the same in 2001 as in 2000. Names are listed on the front page. Carmine Guica, whose three-year term as director ended in October, was re-elected to serve another term. Carmine is an early and enthusiastic member and is our most knowledgeable explorer of the Cavendish - Weathcrsfield area. Carmine’s wife Carmella passed away last fall. She was always first on the scene at annual meetings acting as hostess with grace and efficiency. She will be sadly missed,
News Channel 5, WPTZ Plattsburgh, produced a film about the Crown Point Road for a segment of their feature, "Champlain 2000". This was aired at Thanksgiving time and received favorable attention. The Association was pleased with the content of the film and has obtained copies to use for educational purposes.
A gift of $10,000 was received by the CPRA in memory of long-time member Hubert Humphreys who passed away September 27, 2000. Mr. Humphreys and his wife Phyllis spent many hours researching and documenting the Crown Point Road. Phyllis is still assisting with current research. The Humphreys’ knowledge and dedication over the years have been invaluable to the Association and their gift is greatly appreciated.
In addition to the work connected with the AOT grant, members of the Association were also involved in a number of other activities. The regular program was conducted as usual with four good hikes and a trip to Rogers Island at Fort Edward, New York. The bonus hike in October was cancelled.
A Crown Point Road exhibit was set up at Vermont History Expo June l7 and l8 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds. On display were photos of some of the historic sites on the road and a small collection of artifacts. The booth was manned by volunteer members who answered questions, passed out information and sold books and caps. Expo was very well attended and our exhibit generated a lot of attention. We plan to take part in Expo 2001 which will be held June 23 and 24, again at Tunbridge.
Treasurer Jim Moore has been working with teachers at Proctor Elementary School and has led students oil two hikes on the CPR in the Proctor area.
Secretary Len Lumsden spoke on the subject of the CPR at the December meeting of the Hubbardton Historical Society.
Check your address label. We appreciate your continued support!
A new granite marker, 23-A. located on Tarbell Hill Road in the Weathersfield - Cavendish area, was dedicated on August 26 in memory of Glenn Wheelock long-time Crown Point Road hiker and explorer. Taking part in the ceremony were James Rowe, CPRA president, and Wheelock’s son-in-law’ John Sundberg. Sundberg and his wife Beth, both in Colonial dress, told about their experiences walking the length of the road with Wheelock in 1990. Wheelock’s wife Bertha, daughter Ellen, and son Spruce and family were also in attendance along with other members of the Wheelock and Sundberg families and many friends, hiking companions and CPRA members.
Every spring it is necessary to clean winter debris away from the road markers. This year the clean-up crew will hold a work day on April 28, to clear around the Roger Stevens cellar hole near Gorham Bridge in Proctor. They will meet at 10:30 am at the budge and will welcome assistance. Bring a lunch as there will probably be time for exploring. Call Jim Moore at 459-2837 for more information.
Members in charge of clearing on other sections of the road would also appreciate assistance. Members and their areas of responsibility are:
