The Superior Express -

Jewell County Historical Society met Jan. 20 at the Mankato Christian Church. The meeting was called to order by Jack Alcorn, president, with 19 members and one guest present. Carlton Wright led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Those present were: Jack Alcorn, Delvin Hanson, Nancy Hanson, Jane Pahls, Roger Fedde, Becky Wright-Fernandez, Carlton Wright, Shelley Alcorn, Karen Mauerhan, Harlow Vader, Bill Thomas, Barb Thomas, Brett Ernst, Leon Boden, Karen Boden, Dale Wright, Noah Shipman (guest), Marty Sorensen and Lisa Sorensen.

The treasurer’s report was distributed with discussion on why a Maytag washing machine was purchased.

Thank you notes were read from Kevin Fall, John Menhusen, Karen and Leon Boden, and Betty Siebert.

Jane Pahls gave the report regarding the Dane G Hanson grant and museum changes. The museum committee, Becky Fernandez (chairman), Jane Pahls (reporter), Karen Boden (secretary) and Karen Mauerhan (treasurer) will meet regarding beginning the transition once the HVAC is installed.

The annual meeting was discussed. Anna Smith will present the program at the high school Little Theater. It will be March 17, at 7 p.m. This will also be the meeting for the officer election.

HVAC system bids were received. It was decided to accept the bid from Mankato Plumbing. The rest of the Dane G. Hanson grant and the State Attraction Grant will be accepted. The Mammoth project will be started with the Dane G Hanson grant also. It will be used for better display cases, timeline of Jewell County History, Interactive Toys, etc. Columbian mammoth’s figurines and books about dinosaurs.

Discussion was held about the museum roof and windows.

The group also discussed asking communities about joining the historical society. Invitations will be sent inviting community representatives to the Yearly meeting. The goal is to bring Jewell County closer together.

Cleaning the old jail was discussed.

“Bloggers” are coming to Mankato and would like to see the jail and museum.

Jack Alcorn and Brett Ernst will attend next month’s city council meeting to discuss the antique motor.

The museum committee will interview an applicant for the curator position.

Roger Fedde mentioned getting logs for the chainsaw artist for the Threshing Bee.

The next meeting will be at 7 p.m., today, at the Mankato Christian Church.