By Joan Bowen
The Selectmen are in the process of forming an Ad Hoc Historical Museum Study Committee (HMSC). The new committee will evaluate a variety of issues concerning the establishment of a Bedford historical museum for the display of artifacts and documents relating to Bedford’s history. It is the first step in what is expected to be a multi-step process required to establish a museum.
Formation of the HMSC is in response to a request from the Bedford Historical Society (BHS) earlier this year. The request was based on the need for more space than is currently available in the Stearns Building. Beyond the needs of the BHS, it is believed that a Bedford historical museum would attract tourists with a positive impact on local business activity.
Responsibilities for the HMSC will include operational details, critical factors for success, identification of potential spaces, issues to be addressed to make each potential site functional and potential costs. It is anticipated that the work will take approximately six months.
The committee will include one Selectman, a member of the Historic District Commission, a member of the Historic Preservation Commission and two at-large members. A non-voting liaison from the Bedford Historical Society will also participate.
The Volunteer Coordinating Committee will recruit citizens interested in the two at-large members. If you would like to be considered, go to www.bedfordma.gov/volunteer-coordinating-committee.
THE BEDFORD MUSEUM IS LOCATED AT BEDFORD POLICE STATION.
IF THEY WANT EXPAND THE BEDFORD MUSEUM THEY SHOULD CONSIDER RELOCATE TO OLD BEDFORD TOWN HALL TO PRESERVE THE HISTORY OF THE TOWN.