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Home My WebLink About20012974.tiff WE TELL IT LIKE IT WAS." BLACK AMERICAN WEST MUSEUM & HERITAGE CENTER, INC. Paul W. Stewart, Founder Established 1971 . r September 28, 2001 Mr. Mark Wolfe,Director . Colorado Historical Society State Historical Fund 225 E. 16th Street,Suite 260 Denver, CO 80203 Dear Mark: The Black American West Museum&Heritage Center(BAWMHC)is requesting $34,000 in grant funds and a waiver of the cash match requirement to assist with our ongoing efforts to preserve the Dearfield settlement site. As you are aware,the Colorado Legislature appropriated$250,000 for our efforts, however these fiords can only be used for stabilization and restoration of the structures at the site. Our ability to raise funds for planning is limited,so we are requesting the waiver of cash match for this project. The project funds will be used to develop an acquisition strategy for additional properties, including the highly threatened Lunch Counter structure. The funds will also help us protect Colorado's investment in the site through the development of a maintenance plan for the O.T. Jackson house and the overall site. Our estimates for achieving the goals set out in our vision plan for the site exceed $1,000,000,much of this is acquisition and stabilization costs. You help now with planning costs will help ensure the long-term success of the project. Thank you for your support throughout this project. The continued assistance of the Stale Historical Fund is greatly appreciated. We hope that you will give this request your positive endorsement. Sincerely, r I_ a ce Yvonne ollette— Executive DirectoriCoordinator Dearfield Preservation Project / 2001-2974 11 3091 California Street • Denver, CO 80205 • (303) 292-2566 • FAX: 303-382-1981 fui E-Mail: bawmhc@aol.com WEB: www.coax.net/people/lwf/bawmus.htm ORGANIZATION SUMMARY ORGANIZATION NAME: Black American West Museum ADDRESS: 3091 California Street, Denver,CO 80205 EMPLOYER ID#: 84-6117163 CONTACT PERSON: Wallace Yvonne Toilette (Name) Executive Director (Title) PHONE: Office 303.292.2566 Fax 303.382.2982 E-Mail bawmhc@aol.com PROJECT TYPE: 0 Acquisition and Development ❑Education X Survey and Planning NAME OF PROPERTY/PROJECT: Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plan PROJECT LOCATION: Colorado State Highway 34, Weld County,Colorado BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF REQUEST:This project will result in the establishment of a property acquisition plan and site maintenance plan for the Dearfield town site and a maintenance plan for the recently restored O.T. Jackson home. AMOUNT OF REQUEST: Grant Request: _$34,000_ Cash Match: Total: _$34,000_ J I Signature o Le� ntative .J,.i�Y iiniivgate I 9- 23-0( _ Signat a of r; - .• • Au o 'd Representative Date ' / .3 .L..► ' `�- 2` -0• Signatur f Legal Owner Date Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project# 1. Applicant Information Mission statement, brief statement of organization's goals, organization history and achievements: The Black American West Museum & Heritage Center's mission and goals are the interpreting, collecting, housing, displaying, exhibiting, and preserving of historical artifacts, documents and other memorabilia which tell the history and relate the stories of Black men and women who helped settle and develop the American West. This approach allows visual artistic inculcation of the rich and colorful contributions of Black pioneers in the western United States. The Black American West Museum& Heritage Center(BAWM&HC)was founded in 1971 by Paul W. Stewart to research, preserve and disseminate information on the role of Black pioneers in the development of the American West. The Museum currently has over 600 members and collections of over several hundred photographs, artifacts, documents, musical scores and memorabilia that tell the rich history of African American westerners. In 1985,the Museum acquired the Dr. Justina L. Ford home from Historic Denver and became the permanent home of the BAWM&HC celebrating her accomplishments as Colorado's first licensed Black female physician. The restoration of the Museum was the first preservation project in Colorado of a site associated with African American history. The property was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. The museum also owns a property next to the Ford home that serves as a gallery, office and community meeting space. In 1993, records showed that only two other Black sites were listed in Colorado on to the National Register of Historic Places. Since this time,the Museum has become committed to the identification of and preservation of land and historic sites associated with African American History. Recent achievements include the selection of the Dearfield town site on the Colorado's Most Endangered Places list,the development of a vision plan for the creation of a historic park celebrating the community and its achievements and an appropriation of$250,000 from the Colorado Legislature to stabilize structures. The Museum plays an active role in the community and has several programs for K-12 students. 2. Purpose of Grant The purpose of this grant is to develop a long-term maintenance plan for the restored O.T. Jackson home, to identify and prioritize acquisitions in Dearfield for the Black American West Museum and to develop annual site maintenance plans to slow the deterioration of the site in its current condition. a. Description of the importance of the property or project: Dearfield is a rare example of the African-American farming colony movement that became prevalent in the plains between 1900-1940. Dearfield was a dryland agricultural community that was developed by Oliver Toussaint Jackson, an African-American visionary and entrepreneur who worked for four early Colorado governors. Through his political connections he was able to realize his dream of creating a place where Black people could become self-sufficient. Dearfield was established in 1910 and is one of the earliest farming communities on the plains in Weld County. The town boasted a school, two churches, a doctor's office, a filling station, a lunchroom and numerous residences. Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project # Dearfield today is the last of several Black communities that were established on the Colorado eastern plains with existing structures. The Black American West Museum acquired the home of O.T. Jackson as a result of a property trade with another resident, and over the last several years has had numerous properties donated to them. As a result,the Black American West Museum chose to develop the site as a history park for future generations of Coloradoans to learn about the role African-Americans played in shaping the state. The site is a glimpse into subsistence farming in an arid climate, and is important to the understanding of the role agriculture plays in northern Colorado. Dearfield is symbolic of the pioneer spirit of African Americans, many of whom left their jobs in the cities to experience the personal freedom of land ownership and self- determination, which was a national movement of the time. (National Register Nomination, Statement of Significance) In June 2000,the Colorado legislature appropriated funds for the Black American West Museum to begin the preservation of Dearfield. The use of the appropriation is restricted to the preservation of structures at the Dearfield site. As a result,the Museum must seek funds from sources such as the State Historical Fund to provide for planning strategies to maintain the site and acquire additional parcels. The Black American West Museum is requesting funds to develop a long-term maintenance plan in an effort to protect the investment taxpayers in Colorado have invested in the site. The Black American West Museum realizes that in order to make their vision of a history park a reality, they will need to acquire additional property. Updating research on property ownership and property values will be a key part of this project. The consultant hired for this project will also help the Museum prioritize purchases,to aid them in their effort to preserve the site in a logical and systematic way. In addition,the research will provide the needed information to contact property owners and seek permission for an archeological survey of the area. Finally, because the site is on the high plains of Colorado, a site maintenance plan is necessary to help the Museum manage the site. This maintenance plan will determine the annual maintenance the site will need and make recommendations for future projects, such as archeology, additional stabilizations and interpretive signage. b. Description of the goals and objectives for the purpose of the grant: The goal of this grant will be the creation of the property tools necessary to make the creation of an outdoor, high-plains museum, a reality. The first goal is to have an easy to use maintenance manual for the O.T. Jackson house. The manual will need to take into account security provisions, the relationship of neighbors to the site and a schedule of maintenance and repair items. The site manual and plan will take into consideration the proper methods for removing harmful vegetation, overall site security and consider visitor services such as signage. The acquisition strategy will help drive the Museum's efforts on acquiring the parcels of land for the continued development of the project. This project meets the State Historical Fund objectives for the preservation of sites of underrepresented ethnic minorities. Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project# c. Public benefit of the work proposed:: Few Coloradoans have an opportunity to learn about the dryland era of farming in the State of • Colorado, or the role African-Americans played in developing the state. The preservation of Dearfield will assist in telling the full story of the history of the great plains of Colorado. The public will be able to visit the site and get a sense of what it may have been like to live in the vast prairie. The long-term goal of developing the site into a museum will greatly benefit our residents,ensuring that an important African-American site is preserved for future generations. d. Timetable for implementation: Contract with State Historical Fund February 2002 Research and development of acquisition list March—August 2002 Research and development of O.T. Jackson March-April 2002 house maintenance manual Research and development of site maintenance plan May-June 2002 e. Other organizations, if any,participating in the project: The following organizations are currently or will be participating in the future: Colorado Preservation, Inc., Architecture Preservation Institute at Colorado State University, Conservation Fund,University of Northern Colorado History and Ethnic Studies Departments,and Greeley Museums. f Long term sources/strategies for funding at the end of grant period. The Black American West Museum will be seeking support from a variety of sources to acquire, preserve and protect the Dearfield site. In addition to State Historical Funding,the Museum will be pursuing funds through Colorado Department of Transportation (TEA-21), GOCO, private foundations and corporate sponsorships. 3. Evaluation. a. Expected results during the funding period: The project will result in useful tools to help the Black American West Museum pursue its goal of the development of the Dearfield historic site as an outdoor museum. The project should result in an organized, logical and strategic acquisition list that can be used by the Museum when approaching funders. The manuals will ensure that the public investment already made in the site will be preserved and maintained. b. How you would define and measure success: Success with this project can only be measured over time. The success will depend on the accuracy of information gathered on property values and the ability of the museum to acquire additional properties at or below these estimated values. The success of the manuals will largely depend on the ability of the Museum to easily use and execute the recommendations. c. How will project's results be used and/or disseminated. The Black American West Museum will publicize the project through press releases and hosting tours and events at the site. The manual will be available as an example to other museums and organizations looking to accomplish a similar goal. The projects results will be announced upon completion, and information on the project will be available through the Black American West Museum's website. Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project# LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 1. Scope of Work 2. Line Item Budget 3. Photographs 4. Project Participants 7. Letters of Support 8. Copies of Bids Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project# ATTACHMENT 1 SCOPE OF WORK A. Development of maintenance plan—O.T. Jackson Home (Andrews & Anderson) • Monthly and annual routine maintenance • Recommendations on security of site B. Development of site maintenance plan • Monthly and annual routine maintenance • Prioritize immediate site needs such as plant removal, security, etc. C. Acquisition Plan(land conservation organization such as Conservation Fund) • Title Search • Tax status search • Zoning ordinance research • Property Appraisals • Identify candidates for acquisition and prioritize according to: a. Donation b. Tax status c. Structures d. Surrounding empty plots e. Willing seller opportunities D. Property owner relationships • Develop relationship with current owners and work towards acquisition • Gain permission from property owners to conduct archeological research E. Develop partnership strategy • Identify all potential partners and define role • Identify and approach a public entity to assist with site preservation • Develop long term strategy for site development and management Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project# ATTACHMENT 2 PROJECT BUDJET TASK GRANT CASH TOTAL REQUEST MATCH Development of site and 1,000 O.T. Jackson maintenance plan Acquisition Plan, Property owner relationships, management strategy 25,000 Appraisals 5,000 Project Management 3,000 Totals: 0 0 $34,000 Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project# ATTACHMENT 3 PHOTOGRAPHS ffia 4 uy %�• ,. ty p x `r- { X4� iv Exterior stabilization of the O.T. Jackson House. Additional stabilization work planned for the structure in Fall 2001. Work will include installation of new foundation and restoration of the collapsed front porch. Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project # ATTACHMENT 3 PHOTOGRAPHS • a�-per y Side view of the stabilized O.T. Jackson I-louse. Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project # ATTACHMENT 3 PHOTOGRAPHS i.. y;9n y .:: • F } aASStq dsd��kF IiC yy e i'r. •R.3eiG�•1�.[ •R Jiw•' This photograph of the Lunch Counter in Dearfield shows an accelerating deterioration rate. There is great concern that the front porch will collapse in the near future and continued deterioration of the roof has cause partial collapse. This is a high-priority purchase for the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center. Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project # ATTACHMENT 4 PROJECT PARTICIPANTS AND QUALIFICATIONS Acquisition Plan Consultant The Conservation Fund The Conservation Fund is a national, non-profit land conservation organization dedicated to protecting America's outdoor heritage—our land and water—by emphasizing the integration of economic and environmental goals. Nationally, the Fund and its partners have protected over 2.2 million acres of land. The Fund's western regional office is headquartered in Boulder. Since 1985,the Fund has helped protect over 150,000 acres in Colorado. Key partners in Colorado include Colorado State parks,The Colorado Division of Wildlife,the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund,the Bureau of Land Management,the national Park Service,the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Douglas County, Larimer County, the City of Denver,the City of Boulder,the City and County of Gunnison a, and many local and statewide land trusts. RECEIVED JUN 1 1 2001 Updated 5/15/2001 Page 1 Dearfield Steering Committee Dearfield Preservation Project Contact Sheet Committee Members: Laura Aldrete Mayor Webb's Office, Stapleton Project 720.865.2957 fax: 720.865.3056 laura.aldrete(theci.denver.co.us Mayor's Office 200 W. 14th Avenue, Rm 203 Denver, CO 80204 Dr. Ben Clarke BAWMHC Board member Send to: 3091 California Street Denver, CO 80205 George Junne Assoc. Professor, Africana Studies, University Northern Colorado 970.351.2418 (f) 970.352.2898 ¢hjunne(a aol.com UNC Greeley, CO 80639 Marge Klein District Director, US Representative Schaffer 970.493.9132 (f) 970.493.9144 marge.kle in(a,mai 1.house.gov 123 N. College #260B Ft Collins, CO 80524 Joe Lynch BAWMHC Board member (1) 303.866.5443 Joseph.lvnchna,state.co.us Send mail to: 3091 California Street Denver, CO 80205 Updated 5/15/2001 Page 2 Steve Shepard BAWMHC Board member 303.629.6952 (F) 303.629.6954 sshep9432(aaol.com Send mail to: 3091 California Street Denver, CO 80202 Gloria Tanner State Senator (Retired) 303.355.7288 (F) 303.333.1798 g,gn773(@,aol.com 2150 Monaco Pkwy Denver, CO 80207 Wallace Yvonne Toilette Executive Director, BAWMHC 303.292.2566 (1) 303.382.1981 bawmhcna,aol.com 3091 California Street Denver, CO 80205 Karen Waddell Research Associate, CSU 970.491.6076 kwaddell(a,cemml.co lostate.edu PO Box 271122 Ft Collins, CO 80524 Mark Wolfe Director, Colorado State Historical Fund, Colorado Historical Society 303.866.2776 (f) 303.866.2041 mark.wolfe(@,chs.state.co.us 225 E. 16th Ave #260 Denver, CO 80203 Advisors: Samuel Batey Batey s( ,cde.state.co.us Updated 5/15/2001 Page 3 Kris Christensen Grants & Preservation, Historic Denver 303.534.5288 kchristensenna,historicdenver.org 1536 Wynkoop #400A Denver, CO 80203 Bill Gwaltney National Park Service 970.586.1264 bill gwaltnevanps.gov Ottawa W. Harris BAWMHC Board member 303.292.5426 connlink(aao[.com 2713 Lafayette St Denver, CO 80205 Bob Masden Weld County Commission 970.356.4000 x4200 rmasdenco.weld.co.us Denver Norman BAWMHC Board member 303.504.9442 codenver@webtv.net Send mail to: 2290 S. Oneida St Unit 208 Denver CO 80224 JoKatherine Holliman Page jkhollpaadu.edu Christopher Smith BAWMHC Board (f) 720.855.9443 Staff: Nan Anderson Architect, Andrews & Anderson, PC 303.278.4378 (f) 303.278.0521 nananderso na andarc h.c o m 1120 Washington Ave #200 Updated 5/15/2001 Page 4 Golden, CO 80401 Alyson McGee Assoc. Director, Architectural Preservation Institute, (API) Colorado State University 970.491.244 (f) 970.491.2473 mcgeeQcahs.colostate.edu Guggenheim Bldg, Ft Collins, CO 80502 Rachel Yank Technical Advisor, Colorado Preservation, Inc. (CPI) 303.893.4260 (f) 303.893.4333 yank(th.co loradopreservation.org 910 16`h Street#1100 Denver, CO 80202 Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project # ATTACHMENT 7 LETTERS OF SUPPORT • BOB SCHAFFER COMMITTEES MEMBER OF CONGRESS FROM COLORADO �y FOURTH DISTRICT - AGRICULTURE 212 CANNON HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING RESOURCES WASHINGTON,DC 20515 EDUCATION AND THE WORKFORCE 12021 225-4676 VICE-CHAIRMAN E-mail:rep.schaffer@mail.house.gov www.house.gov/sov/scha/fer/ Congress of the 'United *tausEARLY CHILDHOOD,YOUTH AND FAMILY REPUBLICAN POLICY COMMITTEE i1ou,oe of Represcntatiucs August 28, 2001 Ms. Wallace Yvonne Toilette Executive Director/Coordinator Dearfield Preservation Project Black American West Museum& Heritage Center, Inc. 2091 California Street Denver, CO 80205 Dear Ms. Tollette: Thank you for your recent letter about you grant request to the Colorado Historical Fund for the preservation of Dearfield, Colorado. This is a highly important project to which, I lend my complete support and give my highest recommendation. As a result, I ask the Colorado Historical Fund give your request their utmost attention and consideration. I feel so strongly about this project I sponsored a resolution in Congress (H. Res. 54) specifically recognizing Dearfield, Colorado as one of the best examples of an African American prairie settlement in the nation. The resolution, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives 411 —0 also supported the restoration of Dearfield as a way to educate the American public about the history and contributions of African Americans. Colorado needs to maintain Dearfield as a testament to the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans in settling our nation's western territories. Nearly one-third of the pioneers who helped build the American West were of African American descent. One of these people was Oliver T. Jackson, an African American who inspired Booker T. Washington's book Up From Slavery. The book urged African Americans to return to the land and earn their own way with their own hands. Jackson took these ideas to heart when he established Dearfield, Colorado in 1910. The town Jackson envisioned consisted of 60 African Americans who created a self- sufficient agricultural colony of 44 wooden cabins boasting 600 farm acres, 2 churches, a school, boarding house, blacksmith shop, a doctor's office, cement factory, and a filling station. Looking at the town today, it is hard to believe the current view of rotting buildings and a few standing fences was once a vibrant African American community. 123 N.COLLEGE AVE.,SUITE 260B 801 8TH ST.,SUITE 220E 19 W.4TH Sr. 705 S.DIVISION AVE. FORT COLLINS,CO 80524 GREELEY,CO 80631 LA JUNTA,CO 81050 STERLING,CO 80751 (9701493-9132 1970)353-3507 17191384-7370 19701522-1788 Obviously, preservation dollars would be well spent in Dearfield. I understand the supporters of Dearfield's preservation have already acquired $250,000 toward their effort as a result of SB 170, which passed the Colorado legislature. I would urge the Colorado Historical Society to match the amount already approved by Colorado's lawmakers. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can provide any further assistance to the success of this worthy project. Very truly yours, Bo. .• affer Memb . 'ongress from Colorado rite' OFFICE OF BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 915 10TH STREET P.O. BOX 758 GREELEY, COLORADO 80632 WI IDWEBSITE: www.co.weld.co.us lige- PHONE: 970-3F6X: 00,97 EXT.-352 4200 2 FAX: 970-352-0242 COLORADO August 27, 2001 Wallace Yvonne Toilette Black American West Museum and Heritage Center 3091 California Street , Denver CO 80205 Dear Ms. Tollette: The Board of Weld County Commissioners would like to express its support of your application to the Colorado Historical Fund for a major grant to support the Dearfield settlement preservation endeavor. Even though the 2000 State Legislature generously appropriated$250,000 toward the preservation, additional funding sources will be required to make your vision plan a reality. We welcome the opportunity to see this important piece of Weld County and Colorado history preserved, and we are confident your organization can successfully spearhead the completion of this valuable project. Very yours, J. Geile, Chair )11U4 Glenn Vaad, Pr em William H. Jerke YeQ-1 David E. Long Robert D. Masden cc: Don Warden August 28, 2001 The Black American West Museum 3091 California Street Denver, Colorado 80205 Subject: A Support Letter For The Historic Dearfield Project It is a privilege to write a letter of support for the Historic Dearfield Preservation Project efforts headed by the Black American West Museum and others. Last year, I passed legislation which appropriated $250,000.00 toward this project. This will help with a smart part of the cost of the preservation vision plan that was completed by the Museum in 1999. If we are successful in achieving our vision plan goal, the Historic Dearfield Project will ensure the presence of the dream of creating a place where the pioneering spirit of African Americans will forever be a part of Colorado's history. I am proud to support the efforts of the Black American West Museum in their efforts to preserve this great history for the future generations of Colorado. Sincerely. fr ti icAZ Gloria Travis Tanner Colorado State Senator (Retired) 2150 Monaco4arkway Denver, COS0207 303-355-7288 JAMES P. BECKWOURTH MOUNTAIN CLUB 2444 WASHINGTON STREET • SUITE B, LOWER LEVEL DENVER, COLORADO 80205 Phone: (303) 831-0564 Fax: (303) 831-0568 E-Mail: jbcenter@ix.netcom.com Website: www.beckwourthmountainclub.org September 12, 2001 Wallace Yvonne Toilette Executive Director Black American West Museum & Heritage Center, Inc. 3091 California Street Denver, Colorado 80205 RE: Deerfield Preservation Project Dear Ms. Toilette: The James P. Beckwourth Mountain Club (the "JPBMC") is pleased to write this letter in support of the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center's (the "BAWM") Dearfield Preservation Project. We feel that the Dearfield settlement founded in 1910 by O.T. Jackson is a very important aspect of Colorado history, and that the BAWM's preservation vision plan is worthy of Colorado Historical Fund support. The JPBMC's Beckwourth Historical Re-Enactors, through their living history performances, have been educating the public about the contributions made by "people of color" in the settlement of the West since 1997, including some of the strong pioneers of Dearfield. A grant to the BAWM for Dearfield's preservation, will continue to provide opportunities to increase cultural awareness and to portray a complete picture of the lives of many of the residents of Dearfield. For the foregoing reasons, we wholeheartedly support the fund raising efforts of the BAWM to preserve this most important piece of African-American and Colorado history. Very truly yours, igAvve-e -ra. Cheryl Arm trong Executive Director SEP 7 2001 Ms. Wallace Yvonne Toilette Coordinator Dearfield Preservation Project Dear Ms. Toilette, Thank you for sharing information about the Dearfield Preservation Project. I cannot tell how thrilled I am to be a part of my ancestors' history. I first became intrigued about the Dearfield community when I read about it in the newspaper, several years ago. I am a native Denverite, and have often wondered about the Black settlers of Colorado. I am also the Chair of the Denver Council for Black Catholics (DCBC), and have long been seeking a way to create an awareness of the many contributions of our Black settlers. This year,with the observance of Sankota (500th Anniversary of the First Enslaved African in the Western Hemisphere) by the Catholic Church, the Council decided to investigate the town of Dearfield as a possible site to gather to pray and honor our local ancestors. When we reached the signpost of Dearfield, we felt compelled to walk on the dirt that had anchored and nurtured our forefathers and mothers. It was an unbelievable experience to have a Colorado State historical researcher tell me that a family named Price had owned 110 acres. Not only was I able to feel the spirit of my ancestors, but I could be standing on land owned by a family member! In my entire education throughout high school and college, I was never made aware of how much land was once settled and owned by Black Americans in Colorado! I have been to Missouri and stood in a freed slave's cabin, and I have been to the South, to see slave quarters on different plantations, but I have never been able to connect with any of my ancestors in Colorado! I am so anxious to take my daughter and many friends to the town of Dearfield for the upcoming celebration. It is crucial that places such as Dearfield continue to exist in our present and, in our future so that the bonds of blood and love can be felt by many. As mass America pays homage to the settlers of the early colonies, America must also recognize the towns of idealism settled by Black Americans, and do whatever is necessary to preserve and continue their identity and hope of the past and the future!. Sincerely, Deborah S. Price, Chair Denver Council for Black Catholics STATE OF COLORADO OFFICE OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR 130 State Capitol < Denver,CO 80203 — G ^. Phone(303)866-2087 r. FAX(303)866-5469 ` -P-e, September 7, 2001 Bill Owens Governor Joe Rogers Lieutenant Governor Black American West Museum &Heritage Center 3091 California Street Denver, Colorado 80205 Dear Black American West Museum & Heritage Center: I wholeheartedly support your fundraising efforts for the preservation of Dearfield, Colorado in Weld County. Dearfield was the all Black settlement founded in 1910 by O.T Jackson who had a vision for Black people to be self-sufficient and establish a sustainable future through land ownership and farming-a practice he engaged in successfully for several years. Now that story and the historic town site is in danger of being lost. There is a tremendous need for this history to be preserved for future generations. Our youth, and some adults, are sometimes not aware of the struggles and successes of our ancestors right here in Colorado. The Black American West Museum & Heritage Center is leading the preservation project and I support their efforts. Very Truly Yours, *----- Joe ' ogers eutenant Governor COLORADO HISTORICAL SOCIETY r F 1 3 0 0 B r o a d w a y Denver Colorado 8 0 2 0 3 September 6, 2001 The Black American West Museum & Heritage Center Attention: Wallace Yvonne Tollette, Executive Director 3091 California St. Denver Colorado 80205 Dear Ms. Tollette, On behalf of the African American Advisory Council of the Colorado Historical Society, please accept this letter of support for your efforts to obtain matching funds to preserve and interpret the legacy of Dearfield, Colorado, the all-Black settlement founded in 1910 by O.T. Jackson. The council supports your efforts to preserve and promote the story Dearfield and its settlers. If the council can be of further assistance, please let us know. Sincerely, 91 Sid Wilson Chair,African American Advisory Council Colorado Historical Society 303/758-8149 /OF COIN e 9d « , State Representative % Member: ROSEMARY MARSHALL .../8 76 . Business Affairs&Labor Colorado State Capitol Committee 200 E.Colfax Ave.-Rm.271 COLORADO Finance Committee Denver,CO 80203-1784 Information&Technology Capitol: 303-866-2959 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Committee Email: rosemarymarshall@gwest.net STATE CAPITOL DENVER 80203 September 5, 2001 Ms. Wallace Yvonne Toilette, Executive Director Black American West Museum and Heritage Center, Inc. 3091 California Street Denver, CO 80205 Dear Wallace Yvonne: Thank you for your letter and information regarding preservation efforts of Historic Dearfield, Colorado, the all-black settlement founded by O.T. Jackson in 1910. The citizens of this state are proud to know that this historic town, representing the pioneer spirit our early African American settlers, will be restored to preserve the memory and heritage of those courageous forebears. I recall the successful efforts of Senator Gloria Tanner in the legislative session of 2000 to find funding for this effort. After a long and hard fought battle, there was an appropriation of$250,000 awarded for the preservation effort of Dearfield. Although the cost is estimated to be in excess of $1,000,000 to implement this vision in its entirety, we are off to a good start. I fully support and commend your efforts in requesting a grant from the Colorado Historical Fund and wish you much success. Under your effective leadership, your vision will become a reality. if I can be of any assistance, please let me know. I look forward to working with you on this most important endeavor. 1 am enclosing a contribution of$100.00 in support of this project. Sincerely, Rosemary Marsha 1 State Representative House District 8 RM/mcm PENFIELD TATE COMMITTEES: State Senator T 3, Vice-Chairman of: 1660 Lincoln Street F 2802 --i-p. Appropriations Denver,Colorado 80264 Ir!•i:, Member of: Business:(303)839-1572 --=— loin[Budget Committee Home:(303)388-0920 �r,.. t i i � �r{ E-mail:plate@snimet kf islg JBC:(303)866-2585 `f __sue Capitol: (303)866-4864 Capitol FAX:(303)866-4543 'mate Qlllxtnher date of (latnrabn %enuer September 6, 2001 Black American West Museum& Heritage Center, Inc. 3091 California Street Denver, CO 80205 Attention: Wallace Yvonne Toilette Executive Director Dear Ms. Toilette: It has recently come to my attention that the Black American West Museum and Heritage Center is under consideration for funding by the Colorado Historical Fund regarding the preservation efforts at Dearfield, Colorado. By this letter, let me express my strong support for this funding request and ask that you contact me if I can be of assistance. As you know, the Dearfield, Colorado site, represents the potential of the "40 acres and a mule" promise made to African-Americans that was never fully realized. The decline of the settlement and the failure to have it maintained by the state is, in part, a function of the passage of time and the faded importance of the settlement in the minds of many, and also part of a desire to erase a portion of the state's valued history. The message of self sufficiency and self determination that Dearfield represents should and must be preserved in this state. Support from the Colorado Historical Fund is very much needed to continue the museum's efforts to maintain this valued portion of Colorado's legacy. I wholeheartedly support your request for funding! Very truly, Penfield W. Tate III rl i OCZYi DAVE OWEN Senate Chamber COMMITTEES: State Senator State of Colorado Member of: 2722 Buena Vista Drive Appropriations Greeley,Colorado 80634-7717 Denver Joint Budget Home: (970)330-9600 B Business:(970)330-9600 Capitol:(303)866-2586 FAX:(970)330-9600 September 5, 2001 Black American West Museum and Heritage Center, Inc. 3091 California Street Denver, Colorado 80205 Dear Friends: I am happy to play a small role in the preservation of significant African-American and Colorado history by supporting your fund- raising efforts for the preservation of Dearfield, Colorado. This all-black settlement, founded in 1910 by O. T. Jackson, speaks to the colonization movement of the 1900s and it should be preserved for future generations. It is very important that this era of history not be lost and the contributions of those who helped to make Dearfield a success be remembered, valued and appreciated. I encourage your work and wish you success in your fund-raising efforts. Sincerely, c0-t.st O64J-en-- Dave Owen DO:mf 1800 Monaco Pkway Denver, CO 80220 September 12, 2001 Black American West Museum & Heritage Center 3091 California Street Denver, CO 80205 Re: The Dearfield Preservation Project As a previous Black American West Museum& Heritage Center board member and former state legislator, I was involved in both the Museum's and legislature's efforts to preserve and conserve Dearfield. As you know, Dearfield, Colorado is the all-Black settlement founded in 1910 by O.T. Jackson. I can personally attest to the dedication and commitment by the Museum and staff to this preservation effort and I'm hopeful the Historical Society will find their efforts worthy of its support. It is noteworthy that the Colorado State Legislature supported the initiative with an appropriation of$250,000. It is of further note that the initiative received overwhelming bi-partisan support in both the House and the Senate. This letter of support is offered unequivocally and without reservation. Respectfully yours with hope for your full consideration, Gm K. ( jcx1Le 1 M �. Benjamin Clarke, M.D. Susan Barnes-Gelt At Large CITY COUNCIL Kathleen MacKenzie District 7 Cathy Reynolds At Large Elbra Wedgeworth District 8 Dennis Gallagher District 1 't�, (6:7 Deborah L.Ortega District 9 T.J."Ted"Hackworth . . . District 2 U Wi l d � //�L Edward P.Thomas District 10 Ramona Martinez District 3 (((/// / Allegra"Happy"Haynes District 11 Joyce Foster District 4 pU 3, John Bennett Director Polly S. Flobeck District 5 Kelly Quintana. . . . Council Secretary P O Charlie Brown District 6 It 2 ROOM 451 •CITY&COUNTY BUILDING -b^'C DENVER COLORADO•80202 SEAL- PH.:720-865-9534 FAX:720-865-9540 EMAIL:dencc@ci.denver.co.us September 1, 2001 Black American West Museum and Heritage Center 3091 California Street Denver, Colorado 80205 Dear Sirs/Madams, I am writing this letter to state my whole-hearted support for preservation efforts at Dearfield,Colorado, the all-Black settlement founded in 1910 in Weld County. This critical part of Colorado's heritage cannot be allowed to deteriorate further. We must preserve our history for our children and citizens of the future. I would also like to voice my support for efforts to attain matching funds for the money appropriated to Dearfield preservation in the 2000 General Assembly. Your steadfast commitment to the history of Deerfield, Colorado and its preservation are to be commended! Sincerely, 47a 741a-trito Allegra"Happy" Haynes Councilwoman, District 11 www denvergov.org SEP-28-2001 F31 10:59 AM CSU-MFG TECH. & C0NST MG11 89704912473 P. 002/002 Clo1"r.T niversIty Department of Manufacturing Technology and Construction Management Fort Collins,Colorado 80523.1584 $eptanber 24, 2001 (970)491-7353 FAX:(970)4914473 Mr. Mark Wolfe, Projects Manager Web Site hitp://vrrAvuolostete.edu/Depte/DIS/ DepuJDlS/ State Historical Fund Colorado Historical Society 225 E. 16`s Ave., Suite 260 Denver, CO 80203 Dear Mr. Wolfe, I am writing to express the Architectural Preservation Institute's support for the Black American West Museum&Heritage Center's request for funding for the Dearfield site to develop maintenance and site management plans for the O.T. Jackson House and develop a plan for future acquisitions at the site. This request is an important step in the Museum's long-term vision for the Dearfield site which is to develop a working historical farm/townsite capable of providing educational opportunities for all Coloradoans. Historic preservation work on the O.T. Jackson House(home of the townsite's founder)is scheduled to begin in early October 2001. This work is the culmination of months of planning by a unique, dedicated, and dynamic group of interested parties including Gloria Tanner, state senator,retired, George Junne, Associate Professor of African Studies at the University of Northern Colorado, Laura Aldrete of Denver Mayor Wellington Webb's office,Marge Klein of U.S.Representative Bob Schaffer's office, and members of the board of directors and the Director of The Black American West Museum&Heritage Center. Consultant advisors include the Architectural Preservation Institute, Colorado Preservation, Inc.,Kris Christensen of Historic Denver, Inc.,Andrews&Anderson Architects, and Wattle&Daub Contractors. It will be exciting for all of Colorado when this important site, named to CPI's Most Endangered Places List in 1999, can be considered "Saved". A State Historical Fund grant for Dearfield could be key to making this happen and ensuring the site's long-term management and maintenance. Thank you for your consideration of this important project. Sincerely, [ i Chris Koziol 10Director Architectural Preservation Institute Sworn COLORADO PRESERVATION, INC. IMito to 910 16th Street,Suite 1100,Denver,Colorado 80202 • Phone:303-893-4260 • Fax:3O3-893-4333 • info@coloradopreservation.org September 10, 2001 Mr. Mark Wolfe Director State Historical Fund 225 East 16th Aveue Denver, CO 80203 Dear Mark: Colorado Preservation, Inc. (CPI) enthusiastically supports the continued effort to preserve Colorado's historic Dearfield African-American Farming Colony. For this reason, CPI would like to see the State Historical Fund approve a request for funding to develop maintenance and management plans for Dearfield's current holdings, produce historical research to plan for interpretive signage, and develop a plan for future acquisitions at the site. This request falls within the scope of Dearfield's comprehensive vision plan, the end result of which will be a working historical farm/townsite capable of providing educational opportunities for all Coloradoans. Work on the multi-phased Dearfield project has already begun and is being overseen by a dedicated group of interested parties. This group consists of George Junne, Associate Professor of African Studies at the University of Northern Colorado, Laura Aldrete of Denver Mayor Wellington Webb's office, Marge Klein of U.S. Representative Bob Schaffer's office, Gloria Tanner, state senator, retired; and members of the board of directors of The Black American West Museum. Advisors include Chris Koziol and Alyson McGee of Colorado State University's Architectural Preservation Institute, Colorado Preservation, Inc., Kris Christensen of Historic Denver, Inc., Bill Gwaltney of the National Park Service and Bob Masden, Weld County Commissioner. Named to CPI's Most Endangered Places List in 1999, Dearfield is close to being considered a"Save." CPI's view is that a State Historical Fund grant for Dearfield would be pivotal to this end. Since Pa ricia Holcomb Technical Advisor Endangered Places Program Colorado Preservation, Inc. Cl'!s mission is to promote and adzrance Historic Preservation throughout tlur State of Colorado. ��TO?r September 28, 2001 Ms. Wallace Yvonne Follette Executive Director/Coordinator Dearlield Preservation Project Black American West Museum & Heritage Center, Inc 2091 California Street Denver. CO 80205 Historic Denver is pleased to offer this letter of support on behalf or your efforts to seek funding to preserve the historic town site of Dearf field. Colorado. As a long time preservation partner to the BA WM&I IC, we are privileged to offer our support and assistance to your fundraising efforts. The Dearlield site is an amazing glimpse back to a past that required the perseverance of residents as they attempted to create a new life for themselves on the [astern Plains. This story of this drvland farming community is an important one that must be told to Colorado residents. The project of Dearlield exemplifies your desire to "tell it like it was' . The partnerships that yon hays developed and continue to foster are impressive. and will certainly lead to your success with this site. HD is pleased to be a part of the project by supplying one of our staff members as an advisor to your steering committee.• !he opportunity for us to participate in this project is certainly a privilege. We whole-heartedly support your ongoing efforts to preserve this important, and highly threatened site Sincerely. CCU fed eFA'1 {(7.010/1 Kathleen Brooker President Historic Denver, Inc. 51(, ix%.i,k,„,,.,,i.r,,, I ',13. i,1 5288 w..dlnA I 4u454- .5296 Ilex • her,“(.(1)SU_iL 11.9? I ..:,,, hucncdro,..i orK Black American West Museum Dearfield Maintenance and Acquisition Plans Project/4 ATTACHMENT 8 BIDS 09/24/22001 1E:03 303-278-0521 ANDREWS S ANDERSON PAGE 01/01 MEMO 4O. / `pi Date: 9.24.01 Cg To: Chris Christensen = Andrews & From: Nan Anderson Anderson,P.L Alicarracruxt Re: Dearfield grant scope a°h MAIimun A.&A Project Number: NA Hi Chris, Andrews&Anderson,P.C. proposes to provide the following services for the Black American West Museum for the Dearfreld site: 1. Site maintenance plan — to include landscape maintenance, drainage maintenance, site access issues, site security recommendations, etc. as is pertinent to the maintenance of the property now under BAWM's ownership 2. O.T. Jackson House maintenance plan—to include seasonal and periodic recommendations for the maintenance and preservation of the building's rehabilitated systems (roofing, siding, structure, porch, windows, foundation,drainage; etc.) 3. (2)meetings with the HAWN Project Steering Committee Normal reimbursable expenses are included in the fee proposal. No visits to the site are anticipated. For the above services,we propose a lump sum fee of$1,000, billed monthly for the percentage of work completed in the previous month. We anticipate a project schedule of two months, from receipt of signed contract, to completion of final plan—depending on review times by the State Historical Fund. This proposal shall remain in effect until September 30, 2002, after which time we reserve the right to revise or withdraw it. Thanks for keeping us in the loop. This is going to be a great interpretive site, some day soon. 474 cc: Liz Heckart File 1120 Washington Avenue,Suite 200,Golden,CO 8040: (303)278-4378 fax(3031278-0521 SEP-28-2001 FR1 03:14 PM THE CONSERVATION FUND FAX NO, 3039383763 P. 02 THE CONSERVATION FUND September 28, 2001 Ms. Kris C.'hristcnscn 1536 Wynkoop Street,Suite 400A Denver, CO 80202 Re: Dearfield Site—Black America West Museum Dear Kris: Should The Conservation Fund be asked by the Black America West Museum to assist with land acquisition at Deerfield, and should we agree to take on the project, we estimate the cost of services to he 525,000 for those steps outlined in the Scope of Work in BAWM's grant application for acquisition planning,property owner relationships, and developing partnership strategies. As you requested. f am enclosing a very brief summary of The Conservation Fund's mission statement. We look forward to discussing this project further if BAWM's grant request is approved by the Colorado Historical Fund in January,2002. 1 hope we might be able to arrange a site visit sometime in November, Sincerely, ( ` ,L Christine Quinlan Project Manager Encl. r l:l�u n' IC I l lll'l l l i! Vitae) cor.verri uai 1942 nro;idw;ry,Suite 323 • 13eulder, C()80302 • (393)444-1369 • FAX(303)03S•3763 Hello