The Jefferson Proving Ground Heritage Partnership met Tuesday, June 21, 2007, at the Jennings County Library in North Vernon for the regular monthly meeting.

 

President Norma Lou Irwin called the meeting to order.
Minutes of the meeting were approved as published on a motion by Ron Harsin and seconded by Louis Munier.

 

The financial report showing a balance of $11,110.47 as of June 19 was reviewed and filed for audit.

 

It was noted that all of the "Come Visit" books by Jean McClellan had been sold.

 

Ken Knouf reported that he had had a busy month with tours.  Madison students toured May 18.  A presentation on their visit was held later by the
group with Leroy Harsin, Louis Munier and George Bayless participating.
Others touring included historical researcher Glory June, Forest
“Jigger” Fry and family, Darrell Richardson, Walt Jolly, Marilyn
Browning and the Rev. Robb of the present St. Magdalene Church at New
Marion.

 

Evelyn Comer reported Edith Johnson crawled under the fence and stayed
in her house after the JPG took over. Evelyn and Norma Lou talked
briefly about Abe Lincoln, a former JPG resident, who is 92.

 

JPGHP exhibit at Jefferson County Historical Society. A sketch of the
proposed exhibit “island” was distributed. Bob Irwin made a motion to
pay for materials estimated at $2,500 for the exhibit, seconded by
Evelyn Comer and passed. The exhibit is expected to be completed by the
end of the year.

 

Three speakers are committed to the seminar and Darrell Richardson was
suggested as presenter.

 

Wording on the proposed state historical marker for JPG was distributed
and the location of the sign was discussed. No decision was made.

 

Ron Harsin reported on the website, with May being the highest number of hits ever.

 

The potential title of the oral histories book was announced as “JPG: A
Story Of Hoosier Heartbreak and Heritage.” The printing cost of the book has been paid in full.

 

Evelyn Comer announced she expects to be receiving a scrap book of
clippings about JPG that belonged to a Mrs. Speer.

 

Charlestown Founders Day June 29-30 was announced. Attention will focus
on the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant. Oral histories are being collected from those who worked at the plant.

 

Mary and Ilene Harsin displayed the quilt they have completed and
donated to the JPGHP for a money-making project. Bob Irwin made a motion to pay them for the materials. This was seconded by Evelyn Comer and passed unanimously. The quilt will be sold at a silent auction at the November seminar. Bids are now being accepted. The minimum bid is $300. The quilt measures 90x100” and is a Civil War era pattern, Double Irish Chain, in authentic Civil War era colors.

 

Quote on reprinting “Echoes of Jefferson Proving Ground” by Sue Baker
was received from Thomson-Shore, Inc.; 250 copies, $2,412, 500 copies,
$2,781. Motion was made by Ken Knouf to publish the book and present a
proposed contract to Baker regarding royalties (10% standard); seconded
by Bob Irwin and passed. Mike Moore and Ron Harsin were authorized to
negotiate the royalty and contract with Baker.

 

Ron Harsin announced the publication of his new book on Vintage
Hydroplanes, which is now available.

 

A list of names of some past and present members was distributed.

Next meeting is Tuesday, July 17, 7 p.m., at South Ripley Elementary
School at Versailles.

 

Present besides those mentioned were Darrell Shrader, Elbert Hinds and
Lilian Carmer.

 

Secretary Pro-Tem Lilian Carmer