SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION MINUTES C VV, ss Lct
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i•i ETIXG 0? SALE:: HISTORICAL, CO 'r'ISSION TUESDAY. ISA` 2; 1972
The fI at meeting of the Salem Historic'-:l Co;::r.1331on was held
'I7n Tue3dav, :av 2, l,-1-)72 'at 7: 30 et the North Branch Llbr_� ry,
?recent were .:r. Ceor;e A Ahioed, :r. Erwin Bishop, Yr. Thomas .
acl.ec.n Griffin, Yr. Edward J. Rvbickl , Yr. Robert L . Scagliotti
and :!rs. F concis C. 'Welch. Unable to be present was Mr. Raymond
L. Cna:lifour.
Also nresent was I".r. Peter Gibson, Secretary to Va,ror Zoll ,
who st.1d ti:e ::avor' s of%ice would coonerate in every way . nossible
with the Co:rsisslon, would nav its postage and Zerox needed material.
The first buslness was the nomination and election of officers.
It o-as ev"ed, seconded and unanim6usly voted that the following
be elected;
Robert L. ScaE-liotti
Oeo:^ge A. Armed
-Secy, .,_.:v, r; . -rancls C. 'k°elc`h
i was acreed to send ?,rr. 4dilliam Shreve an answer to his letter
concerning the certification. of Hamilton#Hall.
A pr::sa relez se, nrenarcd by t:.e Ca6ir;rlcn was a--roved.
It was moved, seconded and vot•?d that tike C"hair•nan request the
City Council for ti.e sum of six hundred dollar6" ( ".600) for clerical
expenses �.nd r.n additional one hxndr,>d dollars ( ?100) for stationery,
nhoto_t•ranhic materir.land ot.ar exnenses.
It was afreed to sold future Com :;isslon meetings the first
Tuesdav of each month at seven thirty. -
c:ra. Elizabeth Amadon, Regional Director for Preservation Plan
ping In Esc*x County, was introduced to COMM15310n :rembers. She
_�outllned the duties 'of the Commission and ares nted the Chairman
• 1' a mL nuel sire had nrenared containing conies of all the statutes
^ocedure forms and materials used by other com^fissions. She stressed
t-�the dual canac.ity of the Commission as adminisra.tor of the Historic
District and Its resnonsibility for preservation of the entire city,
Briefly the immediate objectives of the Commission should be:
1 . Set un a work nroFram
2. lalie an inventory of the entire city. ( 14 areas have already been
comnleted)
3. Coordinate such work with other Salem agencies and Commissions.
4. .Inform the residents of the Salem Historic Distriet, (Nos.1=48
Chestnut Street) of the nurnose and functions of the Commission
She also outlined the procedure for establlshinF other Historic
Districts :
1 . The ::avor must ask the Commission to establish a studv` r. roun,
to include an architect, a realtor and a member of arr Historical
Society.
2. The studv group should contact residents of proposed district, G.
Inform them and enlist cooneration.
3. It should submit a preliminary report to the Massachusetts Historical:.
Commission.
4. It should nrenare a :ran, nictures and hold a public hearing. --
wit: ti.e :':4vor a.;:, City Council
`:rs. A.'na(.;on said t'r:at .*rs. oreaory Smith, Secretary of the
:;arbl�:.� (;o:i., :i3.1on co,ald I)e .elnful
.r, 1:.c��C � 'r•'e?Q t0 ..('rox conle3 610i r3. A.T.adon' s .:�anllP.l for -
e.ach ..! r-od to nrenare a draft of tae letter to
Cc:::.:. 1a:. 10:, :,',e:1:. 9rd Ox-rhsded many. thanks to Mrs. Amadon for all
Ler n
The Meetiing adjourned at 9:30 Ellen C. Welch, clerk, oro tem �'
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SALEM HISTORICAL COMMI ,SIGN MFFTITIG JUNE. 6, 1972
The secenu meeting. of the. Salem Historical Commission was held
on Tuesda.v, .June 6, 1972 at 7: 30 at the rdorth Branch, Salem Public
Library.
Present were I:r. ScaFliotti , Nr. Ahmed, Mr. Bishop, Yr. Chal..1four
Mr. Rvbicki and Mrs. Welch.
The Linutes of the last meeting , sent to each member, were .
approved.
The letter to owners of Chestnut Street properties was discussed,
14hile waitinLz for stationery for the Commission, Chairman Scarliotti
passed out drafts of this letter for members to study. Its final
,form-°and -content will: be -worked outatan Executive meeting to be
held on.Tuesdav, June 20 at 7: 30 at 4 Andrew Street,
On Mav 24, i,Er. ScaF'liotti, iRr. Rvbicki and I•'r. Chali.four were
Invited to attend a meeting in -lard 1 to discuss. urban renewal
and other 'e�rbv Street area problems. These membershad an orrortunity
to answer , yuestions about- the Historical ;'ommission and explain its
duties and ,rowers.
The question of public relations for the Commission and the
lack of cooperation in rn;bushing. the cress release prepared at the
Aav meeting nrompted members to urge the Chairman to contact the
editors of the Salem News,
Each member has received copies of the Work Book from the
Irassachusetts Historical Commission and thank Nr. Peter Cibson
for tiie tremendous job he did in reproducing it.
Mr. Scag.liotti suF=Fested that thev be indexed as follows:
1 . Massachusetts Historical Commission
2. Local historical Commissions
3. Chapter 40, Section 8 D
4. Hi.,toric District
5. Chapter 359
6. Historic District, Part 1. po 1-16 A,B, C,D Appendixes
T. Historic District Commission, Part 2.pp 1-2�
8. Samples ,
9. National Register
10. National ReFister Legislation
11. Application for National ReF*ister
12. National Historic Landmarks
13 Massachusetts Historic .Landmarks
The, Chairman cal.led.. attention to Section 3, Chanter 359 and
Addition of an Historic District,p.l, (see P 6 above) .
He reported th,-.t the request for funds by the Commission to
the Citv Council has had a first. passing and it is currently in
' the Finance Committee. Byecause City Hall closes at 4 p.m. , he
asked the secretary to fill out the required meeting notices 48
hours before each meeting..
A reply to Mr. Shreve' s letter concerning publicity for Hamilton
Hall during Heritage Daps in A uFust has been delaved due to lack
Salem Historical Commission, meeting, June 6, cont.
of stationery. Mr. Chalifour has talked with Mr. Shreve and a discussion
followed about planning a snecia.l event bIFhliphtlnE the Hall and
Chestnut Street on one of these Heritage Days,
Mrs. Welch brought mans of the city for each member. One of them
had areas marked that have been surveyed on rassachusetts Historical
Commission forms. A survey made by the Salem Historic Study Group
of many more areas is available for Commission use.
The need for forming new Historic Districts Was discussed. It was
moved by Yr. Ahmed, seconded by Yr. Chalifour that; . f
All houses numbered, facing or abutting north, east, south and
west on V;ashinfton Square be included in the area for study
for the purpose of forming a new district by the Salem Historical
Commission. This motion was voted unanimously.
'The 'first Tuesday in July falls on the holiday, and the next
meeting of the Commission will be held on Wednesday, July 5 at 7; 30
at the North Eranch, Salem Library.
1. An invitation from the Boxford Historical Society to Heritage
Day June 10 was received. The secretary will rerly that members
will resnond individually if they wish to attend.
The meetinE adjourned at 9; 25
E.C. Welch, Secretary
Executive Meeting, Salem Historical Commission.. Tuesday, June 27,1972
An executive meeting was held on Tuesday, June 27th at seven thirty ,
at 3 Andrew Street. Present were Chairman Scagliotti, Mr. George Ahmed,
Mr. Edward J. Rybicki, Mr, Raymond L. Chalifour;, Mr.- Erwin Bishop
and Mrs. Francis C. Welch
Chairman Scagliotti asked members to choose letter paper from samples
he distributed. It was agreed to order 250 front sheets and 500 envelopes.
The sheets would be printed in red with the names of Commission members,
and the envelopes have a return address to City Hall . In addition 500
second sheets would be ordered. Mrs. Welch will see Mr. Guy, purchasing
agent at the Mayor' s office about this matter.
Virs. `Welch-gave -members -the-new address and -telephone number of the
Mass. Historic Commission.
She was also requested to call Mr. Wallace Whitney and invite him
to attend the next Commission meeting on July 5.
The remainder of the evening was spent working on a final draft
of a letter to the residents of Chestnut Street explaining the duties of
the Commission.
Mr. Scagliotti moved, and Mr. Chalifour seconded a motion to
change the meeting, dates from the first Tuesday of each month to the
first Wednesday and it was so voted.. Mrs. Welch will notify Mr. Gibson
of this .change.
The meeting adjourned at 9:15
r
. s
k
: minutes of the Salem Historical Commission - Wednesday, July 5, 1972
A meeting oF- the Salem Historical Commission was held on Wed-
nesday, July 50 at seven thirtyat the North Branch Library.
Present were the Messers Scagliotti, Ahmed, 81shop, Chalifour ,
Griffin, Mrs . . Welch and by invitation, Atty. Wallace Whitney.
Samples of the new stationery were approved with minor cor-
rections noted, These will be made on any new order.
Vice-Chairman Ahmed, and member of the Board of Directors of
_ t.ha _5.q-l.e.m ,Chamb-e.r of C,omme,r.c.o s.a,i.d he had -attended its recent
meeting but had little opportunity to discuss the Commission 's
activities because of this meeting 's crowded agenda. A general
discussion followed about the need for working with other Salem
commissions and agencies , as well as obtaining advice from other
Historical Commissions in nearby towns .
Chairman Scagliotti gave members copies of a letter from Mrs .
Amadon, Essex Regional Director for the Mass. Historical Commission
giving a change of address , and a .list of all the Historic Com-
missions - in Mass .
He then asked Mr. Whitney to tell members about the back-
ground of the establishment of the Salem Commission. Mr. Whitney
said that about five years ago Historic Salem Inc. had submitted a
detailed, comprehensive study of the entire city to the City Council
with the hope that Historic Districts would be established. Council
members were unwilling at that time to consider so many areas as
Historic Districts and the report remained in committee until
last year.
In 1971 the Chestnut Street Associates petitioned the City
Council that Chestnut Street , T 1 - 48 be made an Historic Dis
trict. A well attended hearing plus the cooperation of the Mayor `
resulted in a favorable response to the petition by the City Council
and the Salem Historical Ordinance was voted by the Council .
-In response to questions from members , Mr. Wh-itnoy explained
the amendments to Chapter 40 C and the ennume.ration of these
._- changes in the records of the Commonwealth. He pointed out that
the Commission has many options under Chapter. 40 C. , and its l.imi -
tationsare listed in Section 6 , 1 - 4, in the ordinance . These
include nclude any restrictions in the Commission 's power to ri=ms
late the use and colors of paint.
Ways of regulating and establishing guidelines for the use of
paint were discussed and it was agreed to consult other commissions:
_-
whohavehad experience in this matter .
3ncause the Commission has jurisdiction over ail exterior
- stru-tural Features of a building in an Historic District , malloars
(Io if ad to remove the comma after storm doors , P2 , Section 60 -i3
of thn Salem Historical Commission Ordinance.
a
Page 2 of 2
Minutes, July 5, cont.
Mr. Whitney advised members to work closely with the City
Councillors in any area under study and also to talk informally
with owners of property, to find out how they feel about forming
future Historic Districts . If there is resistance because of lack
of education or information, he recommended careful drawing of
boundary lines. Before leaving, with the thanks of all the members
for his advice, he said that a house on Chestnut St. had been recently
purchasod because it was protected by an Historic District .
The Chairman gave members a copy of a letter from Mr. Baldwin,
President of Historic Salem, Inc. asking the Commission to support
n1.r.._D,o.b.r,ay.al.ny,, .C.ir.e.c,t.or ,_of -the ..Na.t.i.onal .maritime Site, with his
concern for the future enhancement of the Derby Wharf area , It
was moved by Mr. Griffin , seconded by Mr. Ahmed and voted that
Mr. Griffin, Mr. Chalifour and Mrs. Welch prepare an answer to
Mr. Baldwin 's letter.
The question of a study committee was .dis cussed for this area.
Mr. Chalifour moved, Mr. Ahmed seconded a motion that the Custom
House area be included for study for the purpose of forming a new
district by the Salem Historical Commission without specific
boundaries until further study. It voted unanimously.
The proposed draft of the letter to the Chestnut Street resi-
dents was read and several changes suggested, Mr. Bishop moved,
Mr. Chalifour seconded a motion that these changes be made in the
final draft. It was so voted. The letter will be typed and ready
for members ' signatures on Monday, July 10 at 41 Chestnut Street .
Mr. Ahmed offered to have 100 copies made by the Lipco Photocopy
Company.
Several members offered to talk informally with owners of
property on Washington Square about their feelings and interests
in a future Historic District. Ch. Scagliotti asked members to
bring their maps of the city to the next meeting.
In response to a request from Mr. William Shrove for the
Commission to plan an event to commemorate the placing of the.
National Historic Landmark plaque on Hamilton Hall- during Heritage
week in August , Mr. Griffin said he would ask Mrs. GrifFin and
fors . Haskell to give walking tours on Chestnut Street and fir. Ghali
four will a=k permission to use the Hall for an exhibition of old
phctographs of Salem. Ch. Scanliotti will meet with qtr. Franklin
Hebard, President of the Chestnut Street Associates to coordinate
Plans for this event.
lrs. Welch was givsn permission to buy a two-drawer file for
the =ammission 's. records .
the meeting adjourned at 9 :45.
C . C. Welch, Secretary
C.' T S-AL_ .. HI.;`_i ,± .,'L CL._.. _ ::IO:: L'L:CI, '.`ed.nesda T, Aug, ? ,
197'
„Orthl:T mA>+in;_ Of i;h2 83.11,?1 Historical Commission vas :1e1C1
on
Sednesd=.y, august 7 at 7: 30 in the CouracilCnember,, City Hall. Present
ent
were the Nessars <i.t].T:^ed, 'Ch lifour, 3ishop„ ?ybicki , Scagliotti and Ars. - .
Welch, Also prosent were `;r. Willi=am Shreve and ,' r. 'iliiam .Men,
The minutes of the July meeting' ;here approved..
.._ Shreve. and 72 Allen explained the reasons -Why the i'.istorical -
,on,^,ssion's plan to commemorate the placing of the _.ational "eSi.ster's
plaque on the South Building (Hamilton =all ) during Heritage `eek in
August this year ;;as not approved by its shareholders, who felt that
sucb an event during the height of the tourist season might be too
commercial . They also said that the lot opposite the South Building,
caned by the Chestnut Street Associates should be linked with the
plaqueceremonT, but that its owners have not yet decided what name
this park should have . A suggestion by Commission members that this
event be postponed until Nay, 1973 to enable these organizations to
work out another plan with the Historical Commission was approved.
The So:-:imission ::ill write the Proprietors of the .South 3uilding and
he Chestnut Street associates and offer its help and cooperation to
-make this a memorable occasion when the spring foliage is at its height �
on Chestnut Street, Mr. Shreve invited Commission_ members to attend
the annual meeting in Karch 1973 of the proprietors of the South 3uilding.
Chairman Scagliotti said he had talked informally with residents
. of Washington Square who approved the idea of forming another historic
district in the Salem Common area, another resident felt the fir..at
need ;has education and he offered his home for a meeting of all interest-
ed residents to enable the Chairman to explain the duties and policies
of the Commission and correct opposition based on unfounded facts .
Commission members agreed With this pr-nosol and also felt it was
premature to discuss the proposed district with the 4ard Councillor.
The Chairman passed around copies of instructions about how to
make a city wide survey prepared by the iassa.chusetts Historical
Unnission and Vrs . Uelch will obtain copies for each member, He also
had prepared blown up maps of the Nashington Square and Custom House
. areas . After some discussion about which buildings to be. included in
the latter area, it was agreed the ,Commission should meet, at' the Custom
House at Seven o ' clock before the Commission's next meeting on September
'6. It was so moved, by Hr. -Ahmed, seconded by „r. Bishop and voted,
yrs. Welch .will send out reminder notices .
The Chairman announced that ;yrs , Donald Hunt has been engaged as
clerk for the Commission as of August 1 . Members are grateful to Mr.
Chalifour for finding such excellent assistance .
E.r. Sca,liotti explained that all finances for the CommissAon go
t'r:rcu i� City Hall and Ers , '.'elch has the requisition forms for payments
to be made by the City for any Commission expenses,
e. Mrs . Welch reported that a new two drawer file cabinet costs about
fifty dollars . She has .found a second hand four drawer file that can
be had for twenty-five. Mr. Bishop thought he might be able to find
one that was being discarded. A motion was made and seconded and voted
i.storical Commission Encting, Au ust 2 ; 1/72 , cont . a :
taat irs . Welch suend up to thirty .dollars for a sui'table cabinet if
necessary.
The Massachusnetts Historical Commission requested the Chairman
to siTn a form approving the placi.nS of the ; Ouse of the Seven Gables, .
City Hall and the Old To:;r_ Hall Historic District on the Pational
_,e^7iste_ Copies of this form were distributed to members. uVo questioned.
the term Historic District as applied to the 014 Town Hall , Mrs. Velch
agreed to ask Mrs . Anadon about this ,
Copies of a letter from Secretary of State Davore„ were also
distributed stating that The Essex Institute Historic District has
now been listed in the National Register of historic places . The
-same- auestion ";was -again -raised about the meaning of Historic District. *
Copies of 'a letter written by the Commission to Historic Salem, Inc .
were read and approved.
,sir. rimed was responsible for having 100 copies of the letter
to the Chestnut Street Associates p'aotostated and he gave the secretary
the ones left over after the original mailing to Chestnut Street
property owners and others who are members of the Chestnut Street
._ss :ciates , Members are grateful to Nr, Ahmed for taking care of this
matter and assuming its cost ,
letter was received fromProf. Pobert C, Hagopian, State College ,
a7l.ing the Commission to participate in the re-building of the Korth
River 3ridTe , because of ltp important historical si.; ni.f icance . Pars .
Yelch said she had asked to see the plans for the re-building of adja-
cent
.dja-cent roads and that the Massachusetts Historical Commission has as yet
not yet received detailed plans for these new roads from the DPW.
The Commission in Salem will write 4r. Hagopian and tell him it will
coonerate .when further information is available,
A discussion. about ho:* to establish criteria for paint colors
for Historic District residents led to the suggestion that ;sirs , 7elch
meet with Mrs. Gregory Smith of the Marblehead Commission and asci
advice about how it was established in Marblehead.
The meeting adjourned at O o'clock.
Firs , 'Helch telephoned Mrs . ~_.^adore on August 7 and inquired if the
words Historic District in the form sent by the Mass , Historic Com-
mission anDlied to the Salem Commission, She replied it only applies
to the Kational Register and that the Old Torn _'_all is not a local
Historic District, `
'I She received the same ansper in connection .with the use of the words
Historic District in the letter from Secretary Da.voren about the Esser
Institute . Mrs. Amadon agreed it would be better to use another term,
such as complex, rather than district., to avoid confusion,
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION
September 6, 1972
AGENDA
L Reading and approval of last meeting's minutes.
Z. Report of Members
(a) Custom House Area
(b) Salem Common Area
3. Reports of Special Nature
• (a) Restriction on Colors
(b) Purchases
4. Unfinished Business
(a) Certificate App.lications
(b) Forms for Establishing an Historic District
5. New Business
(a) 'Up-to-Date Copy of Chapter 40, Section 8d as most
recently amended.
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION -- Minutes -- September 6, 1972
The Salem Historical Commission held an executive session at the Custom
House at 7 p.m, on Sept, 6, 1972 to survey the neighborhood for a proposed
historic district. Present were Mssrs , Scagliotti, Ahmed, Rybicki, Griffin,
W�halifour, Bishop and Mesdames Welch and Hunt (clerk) .' Commission members
ere furnished with maps of the area and they explored the portion between
Herbert St, and Palfrey Ct, on the northerly side of Derby St, and between
Kosciusko St, and Union St, ext, on the southerly side of Derby St, Chair-
man Scagliotti expressed the opinion that the Commission should not attempt
to include too much in this initial district, but that it would be a good
idea to try to include the Pickering land for protection. He did not think .
there would be any problem with the Raymond house (yellow house on the coi-
ner of Herbert St, ) ,
At 7: 30 P.m. the Commission members (named above ) went to the regularly
scheduled meeting place at the North Branch Library, only to find the door
locked, After trying to relocate at City Hall (also locked) , at the kind
invitation of Mrs. Welch, the meeting was held at her home at 41 Chestnut
St. , Salem, Due to the delay, the meeting began at 8: 05.
The minutes of the previous meeting were accepted. A motion was made
by Mrs. Welch that all houses numbered,facing or abutting on Derby St,
beginning with and including #27 Herbert St, (on the corner of Herbert St,
and Derby St.) down to and including the Rum Shop (on the corner of Palfrey
Ct. and Derby St, ) on the north side of Derby St, and on the south side of
Derby St, beginning with and including #159 Derby St, (on the corner of
Kosciusko St, and Derby St. ) , proceeding along Derby Wharf and the Naval
reserve property and including all property owned by the Pickering-Pocohantas
Fuel Co. (the Pickering site subject to discussion with the owners of that
company) be included in the area for study for the purpose of forming a new
•iistrict, to be known as the Custom House District, by the Salem Historical
Commission, Motion seconded by Mr. Bishop. In the discussion that followed,
Mr. Ahmed asked about houses on side streets in the area--they would not be
included--only houses facing or abutting Derby St, would be in the district,
Mr. Ahmed did not think there would be any problem concerning #159 Derby St,
(the house is for sale and he is the realtor) , The vote was unanimous in
favor of the motion,
The Salem Common area was the next topic of discussion, Mr. Scagliotti
reported that Mr. O'Donnell has not yet contacted residents of that area
regarding a meeting on historic districts , Mr. Ahmed asked if the Commission
could set up a meeting instead, Mr. Scagliotti thought it would be more
effective to have the contact come from within the neighborhood. After fur-
ther discussion, it was decided that Mr. Griffin would call Mrs, William
Russell Burns and ask her if she would be willing to assemble her neighbors
(on the Common only) to explain the function of the Salem Historical Commission
and the benefits of historic districts . Mr. Ahmed will furnish her with a
list of ,all property owners on the Common. Possible meeting places suggested
were the East Branch Library or the Ralph Doerings , If Mrs. Burns is willing
to do the contacting of the neighbors , Mr. Chalifour will ask the Doerings ,
if their home would be available, .+
Mrs . Welch reported on her meeting with Mrs , Gregory Smith of the Marble-
head Historical Commission, They held open meetings with a slide show demL
onstrating the benefits of preservation which were very successful. The , ,�.. .�
ft-Zides would be available for our use , Mrs . Welch reported. Mr. Chalifour'
7,Ad the Commission that Jim Baldwin has slides he has taken of many Salem .;
buildings--these might be used along with the Marblehead slides. Mr. Scagli-
otti will give a presentation on Historic Districts for Historic Salem, Inc,
at the Essex Institute in November--Common residents could also be invited.4
Mrs . Welch will try to obtain the Marblehead slides, j`
z.
According to Mrs , Smith, Marblehead does not have a color code--their
Commission doesn't operate under 40-C but rather under a special act of the
legislature. The only district that she knows of that has paint criteria
is Nantucket. (Marblehead Commission offers advice on color, however) , Mr.
Scagliotti will write to the Nantucket Commission about their documents ,
The clerk said she had a copy of the Nantucket Historic District Report
which she loaned to Jim Ballou--she will try to get it back. Mr. Ahmed
offered to try to get a copy through a friend, The Marblehead Commission
has had many meetings and hearings , Mrs . Welch reported. Their most frequent
request is for a change from clapboarding to shingles . They have allowed
one hardship case of vinyl siding. They are currently having a problem with
a deck which they may have to take to court. They do not issue certificates
of hardship,
Mrs . Welch reported that she has spent $25 for a filing cabinet--also
that requisitions for payment of bills have to be in to the City Cashier's
office by the 25th of the month to be paid on the 20th of the following
month. The file will be kept at 41 Chestnut St, as that is the Commission's
legal address ,
Mr. Scagliotti asked the Commission members to familiarize themselves
with the following so they can be prepared to come to the next meeting with
comments : notification of hearing publication, waiver of public hearing, ,
certificates of appropriateness , non-applicability and hardship. The last
2 items not in kit--Mrs. Welch will ask Mrs . Amadon about them. It was
pointed out that a public }searing is necessary only when there is controversy.
Mr. Scagliotti would like to have Commission letterhead (mimus names of
commission members ) photocopied. The clerk will call Peter Gibson and ask
how we should handle bills and ask him about arrangements for having the
�ibrary open on meeting nights.
Mrs . Welch reported that there is a lot of work involved in compiling
inventory forms. Perhaps volunteers from Historic Salem, Inc, could help
with this job. A motion was made by Mr. Chalifour that Historic Salem Inc. 's
committee on historic districts be asked to assist in the building survey of
districts that may be under study. Seconded by Mr. Rybicki, Voted unani-
mously in favor.
Mrs. Welch showed commission members individual forms she has done on
4 houses on the Common. These are building forms 4-B,available from the
state , Mr. Ahmed will furnish list of names of owners of each house on the
Common to be used on these forms , , Mr. Bishop reported that he is having a
copy of the Salem His*icTS District Study Committee Report made for the
Commission, Mrs, Welc also reported that 3 houses have been done on Derby
St , (#s 108, 168 and 180) . She will do the rest of the Custom House area,
The forms should be filled out in pencil first, Mr. Chalifour was asked to
convey the Commission's deep appreciation to H.S. I. volunteers.
Under new business, up-to-date copies of Chapter 40-C were distributed
to Commission members. Mrs. Welch will ask Mrs . Amadon about her postscript
regarding Revolutionary War buildings and sites in Salem. Some named at
this meeting were the North Bridge , Fort Pickering and the Pickering House .
Federal St, should be checked. The chairman asked commission members to
read Chapter 40-C carefully so they will be well-versed when talking to
individuals and groups . Mrs . Welch reported that she and Mrs . Amadon went
Son a tour of Winter Island and the Willows, Mrs, Amadon was very interestedo. '
in the carousel at the Willows, which is owned by Nick Xanthaky.
j
The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 p.m,
Next meeting: Oct. 4, 7: 30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, r
at North Branch Library Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk
t
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION
October 4, 1972
AGENDA
1. Reading and approval of last meeting's minutes.
Z. Report of Members
(a) Salem Common Area
3. Reports of Special Nature
(a) List of Designated Vendors
(b) Letter to Poets Corner Press
• 4. Unfinished Business
(a) Custom House Area
5. New Business
(a) Letter from Bay State Historical League
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION -- Meeting-- Oct. 4, 1972
The Salem Historical Commission met on Oct. 4, 1972 at Mr. Ahmed's
office, 106 North St. , Salem at 7 :45 p.m. (We were again locked out of
the North Branch Library. ) Present were Mssrs. Ahmed, Chalifour and
Rybicki and Mesdames Welch and Hunt.
The meeting was called to order by Mr. Ahmed, Vice Chairman, as
the Chairman was unable to attend the meeting. The minutes of the
previous meeting were accepted.
Mr. Chalifour reported on the progress of the Common survey. He
has walked the area and made a map and has assigned groups of houses to
each member of' his committee from Historic Salem, Inc. He has asked
them to complete their work by Nov, 1, (Forms to be filled in in pencil. )
He will take photographs of the Common houses and will be furnished
with names of owners (from Mr. Ahmed's list ) . He questioned #19 Wash-
ington Sq. (next to glitch Museum) . He thinks it should be included,
making Kimball Ct, the boundary. Other questions: #39 & 41 (owned
by the Doerings )--is Winter St, side included. Also #92 which has
#2 Briggs St, as side entrance. #150 on state list must be an error.
Add #1 Forrester St. John Wright will help with research at Institute.
Mrs. Welch reported on the meeting with the Common residents . She
thought it was a very good meeting. Mr. O'Donnell asked a lot of ques-
tions but did not seem opposed. The Clerk will type up the list of
Common house owners furnished by Mr. Ahmed and will indicate by an
asterisk those who were present at the meeting.
• The list of vendors with whom we must deal for supplies for the
remainder of 1972 was circulated. The Clerk will furnish vendors with
names of Commission members so they will know who is authorized to
make purchases .
The clerk was asked to write a follow-up letter to Nantucket as
Mrs . Welch has not received the Historic District Guidebook.
Mrs. Welch showed pictures she had taken to Derby St, houses.
Mr. Rybicki told us the Naval .Reserve will be out of their building
by Dec. 1. Mrs . Welch needs additional forms for Derby Wharf and
Naval Reserve area--Mr. Chalifour has some . The question was raised
as to whether or not the Common and Custom House areas could be dis-
tricted at the same time . It was felt that they probably could.
A discussion of process followed. The Commission should meet with
ward councillors prior to meeting with the public. It was pointed
out that Mr. O'Keefe, Ward II councillor, was opposed to the creation
of the Chestnut St. Historic District. If the Mayor presented the
idea of additional districts to the Council it might carry more weight.
Perhaps we should check with the city solicitor regarding procedure.
Ask the Chairman about this.
Mr. Ahmed offered to lay out Common houses on a map--not necessary
because Mr. Chalifour has already done so--can fill in names from list.
Mr. Ahmed will furnish Mrs. Welch with names of owners of Derby St.
property from Palfrey Court to Herbert St.
Mrs . Welch brought up the matter of checking houses and sites
associated with the Revolution for the Mass . Historical Commission.
Historic Salem, Inc, might have some material and the Essex Institute.
is another good source .
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Rea forms , It was decided that since the chairman was absent,
the Commission should postpone discussion of wording of various cer-
tificates. The clerk will check with the chairman to see if he wants
to call an executive meeting to discuss this prior to the next regular
meeting. New owners on Chestnut St, should be given copies of the
letter and ordinance, Mrs . Welch will see that they get copies .
Could we ask City Hall to notify us when property in a historic district
is sold? This is not a problem now but might be in the future as new
districts are added, Mr. Ahmed asked clerk to make copies of the
Nantucket paint chart and Appendix B (repairs ) , Mr, Chalifour said that
the Back Bay District in Boston has to follow the color code of Pitts-
burg Paints--the Commission might run into a problem in Salem if
restrictions are placed on the brand of paint that can be used. This
should be brought up at the next meeting.
A letter was read from the Bay State Historical League inviting
the Commission to become a member, Mrs. Welch made a motion that the
Commission join; seconded by Mr, Rybicki, Motion carried, Mrs. Welch
pointed out that we will need whatever help we can get in preparation
for the Bicentennial. Dues are $8, 00 per year,
Mr. Chalifour announced that Gregory Senko will speak on Oct, 17
at 8 p,m, at the Old Town Hall at a meeting sponsored by Historic Salem,
Inc, on plans for the Bicentennial. Commission members are invited
to attend, Mr. Chalifour also suggested Commission members might want
to join H,S, I,
• Discussion of Commission's official address . How do people contact
the Commission? Should this be done through City Hall? Will they
forward mail? Clerk will check on this. Our stationery has city
hall as address . Include this on agenda for next meeting,
The Commission needs more publicity--need to let people know
there is a historic district. It was suggested that the Chairman
draft a covering letter which could be sent with a copy of our letter
and ordinance to the building, plumbing and electircal inspector and
the Board of Health, Then if a problem arises , commission can be
notified.
Since we are having a problem with our meeting place, Clerk
will contact Director of Public Library, Perhaps we could use East
Branch Library instead, The meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk
Notes The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, Nov, 1, at 7:30
p,m, at the North Branch Library, (Clerk called Library Director who
was most apologetic about the break down in communications. He said
East Branch Library tied up with many other organizations, so we had
better stick to the North Branch, )
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION -- Executive Meeting -- Oct, 24, 1972
An executive meeting was held on Oct, 24, 1972 , at 7 p.m.
at the home of Robert Scagliotti, Chairman, 4 Andrew St. , Salem.
Present were Mssrs , Scagliotti, Rybicki , and Bishop and Chalifour
and Mrs. Hunt.
The Chairman asked us to review the draft of a letter to
various city inspectors, The Building Inspector will be asked to
review all applications to the Commission. We should invite him
to a future meeting.
We then went over all the forms (members who were absent to
be given this material to review before our next meeting) , Mr.
Scagliotti pointed out that Salem will be one of the first districts
to have all types of certificates. Instructions will be printed on
• the back of each application sheet. After the Commission receives
an application, it has 60 days in which to act. If change approved,
Commission issues a certificate of appropriateness . Members of the
Commission were asked to read through all the forms and call the
Chairman before the next meeting if they have any comments, The
Clerk will get an estimate from Salem Business Service on the cost
of printing the forms,
Ret The. Common Study, Mr. Chalifour pointed out that the
way it is worded, the Common District might not include 2 houses
on Washington Square East, Mr. Scagliotti said that it will
probably be called the Salem Common Area District as several
beyond perimeter of the Common have asked to be- included. Mr.
Chalifour showed us the color photographs he has taken of the
Common area, The meeting adjourned at 8110.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth S. Hunt
Clerk
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SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION
November 1, 1972
AGENDA
1. Reading and approval of last meeting's minutes.
2. Report of Members
(a) Salem Common Area (Max Cutler - 4 Briggs Street)
(b) Custom House Area
3. Reports of Special Nature
• (a) Letter from Salem State College
(b) Report of Wenham Historic District Study Committee
4. Unfinished Business
(a) Certificate Applications
(b) Letter to City department officials
5. New Business
(a) Washington Square on National Register
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEETING Wed. , Nov. 1, 1972
The Salem Historical Commission held its regular monthly meeting
• on Wed. , Nov. 1, 1972, at 7,3o p.m, at the North Branch Library.
Present were Mssrs. Scagliotti, Ahmed, Chalifour, Bishop, Rybioki,
and Griffin and Mesdames Welch and Hunt.
Minutes of previous meetings voted to omit reading of.
Mr. Soagliotti received a letter from Max Cutler who would like his
house at #4 Briggs St. included in the Common district. After some
discussion, it was decided that houses on side streets radiating from
the Common had better not be included in the initial district. It
would be better to tell people that the boundary of the initial dis-
trict will have to be confined to the Common (houses on or adjacent to)
but that we hope to include side streets at a future date. Ray
Chalifour asked about #2 Briggs St, which is part of same house
numbered 90 Washington Sq. This should be included. The forms for
the Common district have been done in pencil. The final versions will
be done in ink by Mrs. Welch, All forms are completed except #2
Briggs St.
Commission members reviewed the checklist of steps necessary
to create a district in their manuals, part 1, beginning with step
#6. Map (#8) will have to follow cut-off date. Aim for early Deoem-
ber. After submission to Planning Board there has to be a notice of
a ,Public Hearing (14 days notice) . Final report has to be submitted
to City Council following the hearing.
Mr. Chalifour brought in clippings of newspaper ads. Two houses
• in historic districts, one in Wenham and one in Salem, were featured.
The Clerk was instructed to out out adds, trim and enclose in acetate
folder.
Ray Chalifour will do the map of the Common district, using
original map drawn up by Mr. Scagliotti. He asked for a fresh copy
which Mr. Scagliotti will supply. All Common homeowners have to be
notified prior to the hearing. These notices can be xeroxed.
Custom House areas Mr. Rybieki said opposition would come from
the middle area. Mrs. Welch has done the survey of the area, except
for names of owners. #188 Derby St. (large gray house) is tied up in
an estate, according to Mr. Rybicki. #159 is for sale. Poeohantas
Fuel Companys who is owner. We have to talk to them and see what
their reaction would be to inclusion in district. The same map can
be used for this area. Mrs . Welch said it was not necessary to type
forms--Just do them in ink. Mr. Chalifour suggested that Mr. Scag-
liotti mention the Custom House District when he talks to Historic
Salem Inc, members at the Essex Institute on Thursday, Nov. 16 at
8 p.m,
A letter was read from Robert Hagopian concerning the rebuilding
of the North Bridge. We should invite him to the next commission
meeting on Dec. 6, Put him first on the agenda.
Mr. Scagliotti has a report of the Wenham Historic District
Commission which is very complete and available for anyone who wants
to read it. It was turned over to Mr. Chalifour who might want to
use the map as a guide.
Reports of a special natures appendices from the Nantucket
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Guidebook distributed to commission members. It was felt that their ,
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color guide might be too restrictive for use in Salem. Mr. Seagliotti
felt we should supply all local paint dealers with a chart of recommended
colors without mentioning brands of paint. We could then send people
• to local dealers. He will get charts from several companies for commission
to use as a guide.
Another question ralsedi does ordinance exclude roofing? Shingles?
Commission has to be prepared to discuss these questions as they arise,
Mr. Ahmed pointed out that homeowners have to show the commission what
they want to do. If they have something spelled out ahead of time, they
know what they can do.
Forms were the next item on the agenda. Mr. Seagliotti would like
to keep heading in the center with seal to the left and page # to the
right. Commission members went over the forms one by one and made
corrections. A space should be left in the left-hand margin so forms
can be three-hole punched. It was decided that applications could be
picked up at the City Clerks office, It was pointed out that if the
Commission does not act within 60 days on a certificate of approval,
owner automatically gets a certificate of hardship. (p. 196, manual)
Waivers of hearing have to be signed by all residents. Owner has to
circulate these waivers. These forms could be xeroxed. Public hearings
have to be held _for matters of any importance, such as mayor architec-
tural changes, etc. Notice has to be mailed 14 days before Commission
can act. Mr. Ahmed' .'. will check with Mayor's office res forms
and then notify City Clerk.
The next item of business was the letter to all city department
• heads who should be informed about the Chestnut Street Historic Dis-
trict. We went over the draft of the letter and changes were made.
Clerk will xerox a form letter and mail it along with copy of letter
to Chestnut St. residents and copy of ordinance to the various city
department heads, the Mayor and City Council members, as well ad city
Inspectors and city planner,
New Businessi Mr. Seagliotti met with Mrs. Amadon and asked her
to hold off putting Washington Sq. on the National Register until
after area passes as a city district. It was felt that a dual effort
might confuse residents,
Mr. Seagliotti read a letter from the Bay State Historical
League, welcoming the Commission as a new member. We should ask them
to send us information on use of color in historic districts, also
benefits of historic districts, techniques. It would be helpful
if they could send a representativf' to one of our meetings to tell
us how they can help historical commissions, Mr. Seagliotti will
fill out form they sent us mentioning above requests and send back
to them.
The meeting was adjourned at 10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk
The next Commission meeting will be held on Deo. 6, 1972; at
700 p.m. at the North Branch, Salem Public Library.
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SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION
December 6, 1972
AGENDA
1. Reading and approval of last meeting's minutes.
2. Mr. Hagopian
(Rebuilding of the North Bridge)
3. Reports of Members
(a) Salem Common Area
(b) Custom House Area
• 4. Reports of Special Nature
(a) Letter to City Department Heads
(b) Finances
5. Unfinished Business
(a) Color chart
(b) Forms for applications
(c) Bay State Historical League
6. New Business
(a) January Meeting
•
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION -- Meeting-- Dec. 6, 1972
The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch Library
at 700 P.m. on Dec. 6. Present were Mssrs, Bishop, Chalifour, Ahmed,
Griffin and Scagliotti and Mesdames Welch and Hunt, Prof, Robert C.
Hagopian also attended the meeting. It was voted to dispense with the
minutes of the previous meeting,
Professor Hagopian of Salem State College came to speak to us about
a project he has in mindo the reconstruction of the North Bridge, He is
an American History buff and has done considerable research on the Ameri-
can Revolution. (He researched the Boston Tea Party and reenacted this
event in 1966, ) He feels Salem hasn't been given due credit for the part
it played in the Revolution, especially the confrontation at the North
Bridge. He did research on the subject at the Essex Institute, He said
that the State College would be willing to work with a group such as the
Historical Commission on a project to rebuild the North Bridge, He doesn"t
want govt money--feels this should be financed by businesses and private
foundations. He suggested that the Commission control the project with
the College acting as a sub-committee. The students would handle letters,
publicity, etc. He suggested getting donations of material from local
merchants. Get a local bank to be depository for funds--give every Salem
bank opportunity to bid for aceount--bank giving largest contribution gets
account. He said a brochure could be printed, with illustrations by
college art dept. , giving background on project. He would want help from
all city departments (city engineer, etc. ) Mr. Griffin raised the question
of whether the Commission could solicit Hands, No, We can accept gifts
but a separate fund would have to be set up, Mr. Chalifour asked Mr.
Hagopian where he proposed to put the bridge. Does the city own land to
the right of the bridge? The city owns land by the ear wash. It would
• probably have to be built on the eastern side, Mr. Ahmed said that the
DPW would have photos of the old road and bridge (road originally to the
west of the overpass, David Frye did the appraisal for the DPW,
Two basic questions were ralseds what is it going to look like?
Where will it be located? (Ray Chalifour) Mr, Scagliotti asked what
purpose the bridge would serve, Mr. Hagopian replied that it would be a
tourist attraction and would be for foot traffic only. He feels the
first step should be to get the city and country engineers involved and
find out if the project is feasible. It was pointed out that we would
have to consider where the new highway is coming in. Our group is the
first he has spoken to about this project. He wrote to the Mayor who
referred him to the Commission. He would like the Commission to sponsor
and authorize this project. Mr. Scagliotti asked him if he had a published
text on the North Bridge, No. Mr. Hagopian told the Commission that he
laid out the Hannah program for Beverly, but that they did not follow his
advice and spent money before they got it. He believes in getting as
much material and advice donated as possible. He said he would lay out the
program, stressed getting volunteers, also help from foundations,
Mr. Scagliotti felt that the project should be well-documented--he felt
Mr. Hagopian should get material he has researched verified first, Mr.
Hagopian would like a statement from us in writing if we are interested .
In pursuing this project. Also a letter of introduction to various city
and state departments. Something in writing saying that the Salem Histor-
teal Commission and Salem State College are exploring the project, and
asking officials for their cooperation. As soon as his research is veri-
fied and authenticated, Mr. Scagliotti said, the Commission will contact
Mr. Hagopian by letter, Mr. Hagopian said he would first approach local
officials. Mrs. Welch pointed out that the state has been very evasive
about the road plans for that area, Mr. Scagliotti suggested that Mr.
Hagopian should first contact Mr, Gregory Senko, the City Planner, and
discuss this project with him, since Mr. Senko is coordinating plans for
the Bicentennial Celebration. Mr, Scagliotti will notify Mr. Senko that
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Mr. Hagopian will contact him. The Commission can endorse and assist
this project, but our ordinance might prohibit us from handling this
project. There might have to be a special committee set up by the Mayor
and the City Council. The City Solicitor should be contacted about this.
It was pointed out by Mr. Chalifour that we must say the bridge is to be
recreated, not restored. People might think the overpass was going to
be replaced. He also said that Historic. Salem, Inc. has an old photo
of the bridge and that perhaps H.S.I. might be interested in this project.
Mr. Hagopian was thanked for his presentation.
Custom House Area. The next step is to contact people in the area and
have a meeting, similar to the one Mrs. Burns had for the Common residents.
Mr. Griffin will contact Mr. Andrias, President of the Pickering-Poeohantas
Fuel Co. to tell him that the Commission would like to include the property
in the Custom House district and that it would be to their benefit. It
was suggested that Mr. Raymond might be willing to have a meeting for the
residents of the area.
Letter to City Officials--informing them of historic district--has been
sent out. Copies given to Commission members. Members told about
article in Salem News, Nov. 24, 19721 a report of Mr. Scagliotti's
talk on historic districts at the Historic Salem meeting.
Finances. Clerk talked to Auditor's office. They will try to increase
our budget by $200 for next year. It was felt that at this point it was
not necessary to have a treasurer's report at monthly meetings.
Color Chart. Mr. Scagliotti brought in two Williamsburg color charts for
Commission members to peruse. He said it is difficult to find colors for
• shingles. Mrs. Welch said that the Williamsburg colors are being ques-
tioned. There is feeling that they are not really authentic. There is
a move to establ Uh;,colors for the Federal period. Mr. Scagliotti will
contact Abbott Cummings at SPNSA and ask him about using Williamsburg
colors as a basis. Mr. Bishop will contact Miss Helen Hagar at the home
for Aged Women on Derby St. (she was formerly curator of the Derby House)
who knows a lot about old paint colors. The Bay State Historical League
has no color information. Wenham has no control over color. Salem should
try to, Mr. Scagliotti feels.
Forms. The application forms have been printed. Also the notice of
pubTie hearing. Copies were circulated by the clerk. She will take
50 copies of each application to the City Clerk's office in the morning.
Remainder will go to Mrs. Welch. We will have certificates printed after
Jan. 1 when our budget allows. Clerk will call Mrs. Lyons and see that
the Master is kept.
New Business. It was decided to postpone the January meeting one week
since the first Wednesday was so close to New Years Day. Next meeting
will be Jan. 10th. Clerk will notify Library.
Mr. Ahmed read a letter he received inviting Commission members to
attend the dedication of the new fire station on Dec. 109 1972 at 2 p.m.
Salem Common District, Mr. Chalifour said that the preliminary report
model Wenham's is very detailed. He called Mrs. Amadon with some ques-
tions. Form A. is the form for the whole area. Question raised of what
• constitutes a historic house--are all the houses around the Common historic?
Most could probably be classified as such. We have to submit a larger
map along with one already done on form. Have to indicatev'eddress ## or
inventory ## on each block. The map is a matter of record. We also have
to have a street scape (wide-area view of whole area) . (Check with City
Planner Gregory Senko--he may have one).
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According to Mrs. Amadon, it is possible to do the two districts
at once (Boxford did). They can both go in as one preliminary report.
The forms that have been completed must be Xeroxed on both sides. We
may have to submit a copy to the planning board.
According to Mr. Chalifour, Mrs, Amadon said that the Chestnut St.
ordinance does not apply to these new proposed districts, Rather than
writing a new ordinance, we might be able to amend the existing ordinance.
The matter of signs was brought up--Commission might have to allow
more leeway on Derby St, and Common because of businesses. Mr. Scagliotti
felt it would be best to maintain the same ordinance and let interested
parties apply for a variance,
Mr. Chalifour then went over the preliminary report he had drafted
for the Common area, It was decided that same name "Salem Historical
Commission"be used. The Commission should get a ruling from the City
Solicitor to tack on section 11 to the existing ordinance, rather than
rewriting whole new ordinance, Mrs. Welch will take Mrs. Amadon a copy
of our ordinance and see if this is possible,
Mr. Scagliotti asked for volunteers among the Commission members to
help Mr, Chalifour. It was suggested that as new districts are formed,
the Commission might ask that another member from each district be
added to the board. This should be proposed. The Commission would ad-
minister any new districts.
Does the planning board have its own requirements for a preliminary
report? The Commission should give them a condensed version of the re-
port and tell them the full report is on file.
Mr. Chalifour then listed the contents of the reports
Introduction.
Method of Inventory and reasons for choice.
(Should include Crowninshield-Bentley House, 126 Essex St. as it
• abuts on Common, Mrs. Welch said we will have to get CB house
records from Archives--she will do this. )
Boundaries.
Bibliography, We should acknowledge original report done by the
Historic District Study Committee and its bibliography and let
them refer back to that. Instead of "study committee" in this
case, we should say "Salem Historical Commission. "
Mr. Chalifour's report was very concise and well-done.
Preliminary report for Custom House area. Mr. Scagliotti and his wife
will work on this project, When Clerk types up Mr. Chalifour's report,
she will send a copy to the Seagliottis,
When the reports are sent in to the state, we should send a covering
letter indicating that we are doing two districts at one time.
Other New Business Clerk told Commission members about a book they
might find of—interest--Remodeling Old Houses Without Destro in Their
Character by George Stephen (published by re A. Knop , M, Y„ 19 ,
There are two copies of this book at the Salem Public Library.
Also in the Sunday Globe magazine (Dec. 39 1972 ) an article on the
historic section of Charlestown, Mass. (p. 8)
The meeting was adjourned at 9 4O p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth S. Hunt
clerk
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