To the Editors:
Here is a recent item that might have appeared in a Boston newspaper under the headline Records Recovered.
“A local utility firm while trenching for a fiber optic installation, has unearthed what appears to be some notes from the earliest building committee meetings in North America. The site is adjacent to the original stockade enclosure constructed in the Plymouth Colony.
“While the records are in some disrepair and seemingly incomplete, it is clear that many of the sessions were contentious, especially those open to the initial Pilgrim settlers. They focused on the new renovations planned for exterior walls and ceiling structures that had allowed intrusion of rain and the growth of pathogens. This prompted discussions in depth about builder capability and responsibility and the consequences of deferred maintenance.
“The Plymouth town fathers heatedly debated the course ahead, and in narrow decisions agreed to continue the renovations. Native American tribal members were apparently considered for sub-contract labor positions along with other workers, although some submissions by potential vendors regarding financial adequacy and travel requirements were found in need of further scrutiny.
“Due to the interventions of a former solicitor in the Court of King James, and attorney for the Crown's Housing and Urban Development Section (HUDS) protocols (PATH) [sic], a Mr. Hudspeth [sic], who implored the groups to continue to use their best judgments but move on with the work, the committee adjourned to celebrate the first Thanksgiving.
Joe Brenner
Indian Hill Road, Nov. 9