HVC — Feb 17, 1964

The Historical Values Committee met on Monday, February 17, in Mr. Williams' office at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. There were present Dr. Nichols, Chairman; Mr. Williams; and Dr. Tinkcoom. By special invitation, Dr. John Cotter of the National Park Service was also present. Dr. Cotter had been invited by the Committee to discuss the problem of obtaining proper archaeological information for record when an old site is being cleared and excavated in the urban renewal area. Dr. Cotter is of the opinion that a commercial source for funds for this kind of research might be found. He cited the interest in archaeological research developed in the Southwest in connection with a long distance gas pipe line from Oklahoma oil fields. He is of the opinion that a company like Alcoa could be interested in financing this kind of research as a matter of public relations. Redevelopment of the Germantown area was discussed and also a possibility of making an archaeological investigation of the Delaware Expressway route as it goes through the Central City area. Dr. Cotter was asked to outline for the Committee the kind of letter which in his opinion should be directed to the head of the urban renewal administration, requesting that funds be allocated for archaeological research before the Expressway is built. He agreed to send a draft of such a letter to Dr. Nichols for presentation to the Commission as a whole. He also proposed that the Commission consider obtaining funds for the preparation of an archaeological survey map. This would consist of a basic map showing the land contours with several overlays showing the position of all the buildings at various significant periods of time. It was proposed that a map of this sort, prepared for the Society Hill section of Philadelphia or for Germantown would be suitable topic for a PhD dissertation in American Civilization. Otherwise it might be prepared by a competent architect working from materials in the Commission's office. The following buildings were recommended for certification: 810 Walnut St. 3200 Hamilton St. Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, 419 S. 6th St. 5900 Germantown Ave. 6320 Germantown Ave. 6233 Germantown Ave. [HANDWRITTEN NOTES: Top left corner: "Tell Williams Nichols & Tinkcoom" (partially visible/faded) Top right corner: "Cargyle" and "1964" Center-right margin, circled: "El Mosaico" (or similar - partially legible) Bottom left: faint seal/stamp visible but text illegible]