The Henry County Historic Preservation Commission is moving forward with several projects aimed at documenting and protecting the county’s history.
During its August 25 meeting, the commission discussed a new agreement drafted by County Attorney Becky Wilson. The 28E agreement would allow the commission to help fund historic preservation projects carried out by nonprofit organizations. Improvements have also been made within the county auditor and treasurer’s offices to better track the commission’s annual allocation and budget.
Commission members expressed their appreciation to Jim Kinney and Joe Buffington for helping secure the Camp Harlan memorial site by deeding the small parcel of land to Henry County.
Work is also nearing completion on a guidebook highlighting historic sites throughout the county. Maps and captions are now being added, and while no publication date has been set, the commission hopes the guidebook will be completed this fall.
Looking ahead, the commission is considering seeking grants to establish a Network to Freedom Underground Railroad District stretching from Salem to Denmark. The area follows a well-documented route in Southeast Iowa’s Underground Railroad history. Extensive research previously completed by Doug Hamilton and the late Louis Savage could provide a foundation for the project.
Pat White was approved to continue serving as commission treasurer, while Cathy McCoy was selected as the new secretary. Nominations remain open for chair and vice chair as the current terms expire.
The commission is also considering an inventory of the remaining historic barns in Henry County, with the possibility of eventually creating a book. The Winfield Historical Society will sponsor a related program on old barns September 13 at 2 p.m. at the Winfield VFW. A representative from the Iowa Barn Foundation will give the presentation.
The Henry County Historic Preservation Commission will meet again September 16 at the Henry County Heritage Trust. The meeting is open to the public.