Weir - Historic Northampton.pdf3/17/22, 1:51 PM City of Northampton Mail - Historic Northampton
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=fec0f72d97&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1727485476999567548%7Cmsg-f%3A17274854769995…1/1
Sarah LaValley <slavalley@northamptonma.gov>
Historic Northampton
1 message
Rob Weir <robweir7@gmail.com>Wed, Mar 16, 2022 at 3:22 PM
To: Sarah LaValley <slavalley@northamptonma.gov>
Dear Ms LaValley:
I would like to express my support for Historic Northampton's application for
Community Preservation Funds for the renovation of the Shepherd Barn.
As one who volunteered to help move things out of the barn for the project
thus far, I can envision what a tremendous resource the finalized renovation
will be for the City of Northampton. With the revamping of the museum to
accommodate much-in-demand talks, Historic Northampton is now short on
exhibit space and has lost its special exhibit room altogether. The Shepherd
Barn will also allow for public meetings and performances that do not take
place elsewhere.
I would also add that under the leadership of Laurie Sanders and Betty
Sharpe, Historic Northampton has been transformed into a place that has a
true community focus and meets long-ignored needs of various
constituencies.
I realize there is a lot of competition for CPA money, but I believe Historic
Northampton's unique programming meets needs that are otherwise given
short shrift.
I urge you to support this treasured resource.
Sincerely,
Robert E. Weir, Ph.D.
--
Robert E. Weir, Ph.D.
Dept. of History
University of Massachusetts Amherst (Retired)
Research Fellow, Smith College Department of History
Music Reviewer/Blogger/Freelance Journalist
President Emeritus
Northeast Popular/American Culture Association