HomeMy WebLinkAbout04.12.2004COUNCIL WORK SESSION
April 12, 2004
4:30 p.m.
Council Chambers
Members present: Mayor Hurley, Kincaid, Cole, Greenwood, Clark, Schmitt, Gunderson,
Welper.
Also present: Deb Parrish and Melvina Scott.
Deb Parrish gave a presentation on the African American Historical and Cultural Museum. Ms.
Parrish reviewed the Mission Statement and Vision for the Museum. Ms. Parrish explained
accomplishments to date. The site for the Museum was chosen because it meets the zoning
requirements, is located on an arterial street and adjacent to the African -American Triangle.
Across the street is the Five Sullivan Brothers Park, next door is the East Side Ministerial
Alliance Building and it is in close proximity to Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Payne Memorial
AME Church and Antioch Baptist Church.
The museum will be located on East 4th & Adams Street. It will be a two-story building with
climate control, and loading dock. An Illinois Central Boxcar will be located on the property and
will be accessible from inside the building. The boxcar is used to explain how the African -
American came to Waterloo by rail to break a strike at Rath, but the strike was over by the time
they arrived. They were offered the opportunity to live in the box cars. The box car will be
renovated to have an authentic look and will also be used as the temporary office.
In answer to why an African American Museum, it is felt that the history would best be told by
those who lived the experience. It will be more extensive and focus on the history of the African
Americans. It will be a cultural and educational meeting place.
The goals are: historic preservation, education/partnership, educational collaborations, cultural
preservations, and economic development. The Museum will be more than just a place to house
artifacts, it will be a dynamic educational tool and will be in collaborations with the schools and
universities.
The center will provide a cultural destination point that will draw visitors, tourists, students,
scholars and economic development to the underdeveloped area in which it is to be located, as
well as the community at large.
The total cost for the project is $2,751,621.00. General fundraising efforts will be through
private foundations, city, state and national government sources, on -going local events and
activities, brick campaign and capital campaign. Contributions can be made by purchasing a
brick, which will have the name engraved on a brick used in the building, and by making a
donation and having your name placed on a replica train.
Mayor Hurley stated that he is totally behind this effort and this project.
With no further business before the council, it was moved by Clark, seconded by Cole that the
meeting be adjourned at 4:54 p.m. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
Nancy Eckert
City Clerk