HISTORIC POINT BASSE CITIZEN’S MEETING
MINUTES – Nov. 7, 2023
Meeting was called to order. Those in attendance were Paula, Don, Skip, Larry and Joni.
A motion was made by Joni to approve the minutes from the last meeting – Seconded by Don. Motion carried.
Don stated that John Berg has some early research on Historic Point Basse. We may ask him to speak at the Annual Meeting.
SPIRIT WALK –
Made about $1,000, a little less than the previous year. Because of competing events, we may want to change the dates to earlier in October. Right now, it would be held on October 18th and 26th, 2024. There was discussion about this. We could have activities for the kids while waiting for groups to go out. Near year we can talk about the history of Point Basse around the fire. These stories should be kept short per Skip. Paula suggested the spirits should be shorter as well. Cider was discussed. In all, the event went well.
HERITAGE HOLLY DAY –
Doreen is going to ask a new person if they would like to help. Mike will be back later this week. Maybe call Holly about horses and wagon. No snowshoeing because there is no snow. Don said we could give guided tours of the site and of the trails. There was discussion regarding the starting point for the trails. The trailhead is by the school. Need trail guides. Promote the trails throughout the days’ activities. Activities will include bonfire, house, trails, school, and fur-trader cabin. We need to get this information to Bonnie. We could have hot cocoa or cider. Don could do the blacksmith shop. Larry can be at the bunkhouse. We will talk to Mike and Tina about this when they get back. Joni will do the outside decorating. Would like to have the schedule of the day posted around the site.
HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS EVENT –
Heritage Holly Days is before the Hometown Christmas Event. However, we are still in their advertising. They would like us to take an active part in their activities. Paula suggested that we be in the park from 5 – 7:00 dressed in costume to promote information about Historic Point Basse. We can pick a day when we can do this together.
2024 EVENT SCHEDULE –
Jan. 28 – Ice Harvest
Feb. 17 – Winter Feast
March 23 – Sugar Bush
April 27 – Cooking Class
June 8 & 9 – Pioneer Fest
July 27 – Who Dum It?
Sept 7 – Harvest Fair
Oct 5 & 6 – Historic Encampment
Oct 19 & 26 – Spirit Walk
Dec 6 – Heritage Holly Days
The new furnace is scheduled to be installed at the schoolhouse on November 20.
AALSH sent out something for 2026 regarding having a special Celebration for the US.
Don will check with South Wood County to see if they have anything planned. We can work with other sites and need to see what other groups have planned.
The papers from Historic Point Basse previously owned by Mark Scarborough have not been location. South Wood County Museum does not have them nor does Dave Engel.
We still aren’t sure who is “in charge” of the costumes. Mike has been kind of assisting with this. Skip’s friend, Joanne, is willing to help. Joni can help with repairs.
An appointment needs to be made for the fire extinguishers. Larry suggested we go with what the Fire Chief recommends. Mike and Don can be there for this appointment.
The new Nekoosa Library display has different items and has a seasonal theme.
There was a discussion regarding a snowshoeing event. Need to check with insurance to make sure there is coverage. Skip stated that the trails do not need to be groomed for snowshoeing. We will research this more and bring it to the Board. The tentative date for this event is February 3. Don suggested the “Snake Game” by the bonfire area. It is a Native American game. Paula suggested we have Snowshoe Sundays.
The Marshfield library requested someone to come and talk to them about the history of Point Basse. This email was forwarded to Tina. There was some discussion about this.
Larry will talk to Tom B. about a beaver at the site.
Don made a motion to adjourn the meeting – seconded by Paula. Meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted – Joni Wolf, Secretary