President's Annual Report 2007-2008

Dear Members and Friends,
Ten years ago I wrote in the Annual Report that I had spent time "getting my feet wet" because I had unexpectedly become president of the Society. Then I was concerned about being "in over my head" and working to "stay afloat."

Strangely enough I am still experiencing all three of the above! It is amazing that there is still so much to learn, use, and pass on, concerning the Society and the treasure of the Leffingwell Inn Museum.

Many of the concerns of the past seem to have been resolved. The Museum roof and exterior paint are holding up well. The exhibits continue to excite visitors. The electric "fires" in the fireplaces offer a welcoming (if not warm) touch of authenticity. We have not suffered any frozen pipes or other of winter's possible misfortunes. The added front steps, installed by Greg Stott and his dad have made entering the building much easier on visitors' knees -- both young and old!

The increased activity at the Museum has given the building extended "life" as happens to old buildings which are lived in and appreciated.

The activity is largely due to the tireless efforts of Beryl Fishbone and her "troops" (I secretly believe that these volunteers are in reality conscriptees who couldn't say no to Beryl).

Beryl also arranged for classes in colonial crafts held every weekend throughout last summer. Some of the most popular offerings were quilting, wood carving, knot tying, and stenciling.

This season, Beryl is not only working on the gardens outside the Inn, she is also collecting artifacts from inside hiding places to use as special displays in connection with the celebration of Norwich's 350th Anniversary.

The Society owes a great deal the Beryl for her research, concern and energy on our behalf. Thank you! Thank you, Beryl!

We have been the recipient of several lovely gifts from friends, members and benefactors. In October, Board Member Louise Stott gave us an excellent copy of Old Houses of the Ancient Town of Norwich, 1660 -1800.

This spring Patricia Walters from Landenberg, PA sent us a copy of Norwich Memorial: '61-'65. It is a record of all of the Norwich men who served in the Civil War, so many of whom are still very well known today.

James O. Justice, CDR USA (Ret.) contacted me early in the fall. He was offering a chair to the Society that had "lived" in the Museum when his family owned the building. We of course accepted with great appreciation, and the chair now is happily back home.

Mr. Justice has also given us two portraits of George Washington. They are very impressive and will be an important part of our collection. We were delighted to host several Leffingwell descendents over the year. They are always really impressed with the building and its presentation.

Unfortunately, not everything is so positive.

We still are in serious financial distress. Much as we hate to have to ask for additional financial help, it has been necessary. Insurance alone is a very costly expenditure at over $6,000 a year.

Although Beryl Fishbone and her crew did all manner of insulating and sealing, the cost of fuel oil to maintain even minimal heat has sky-rocketed for us, as it has everywhere else.

Even though electricity is not a major concern for us, the proposed increase in rates is not happy news either.

The number of visitors is holding well, but even so, the income from our guests and membership is not sufficient to meet our expenses.

Unfortunately, it is obvious that a much needed and anticipated grant from the State of Connecticut, for continuing work at #2 Town Street (the David Greenleaf House) is in real jeopardy, given the State budget shortfall. That grant was meant to be used for the David Greenleaf House, thereby freeing up some money for the Museum ongoing expenses.

We still "cut corners" and "tighten our belts" wherever and whenever possible, but it is understandable that we get discouraged with having to appeal for more financial help so often. We do sincerely appreciate the generosity of all of those who responded so nicely in our time of need. Thank you all.

The Board is still feeling the loss of Walter Green. His death last spring left a void in the makeup of the Board and the Society that will not soon or easily, be refilled. His, and Calista's wise counsel and unfailing support, were and are precious gifts to all of us fortunate enough to have known and worked with them. Both Walt and Calista provided gentle leadership regardless of what the task might be.

The Museum was always ready to celebrate the Christmas Season because the Greens had put candles of welcome in the windows and hospitality wreaths on the doors.

They were always ready to answer security alarms no matter what the time of day, or night. At times when Board meetings were without a secretary, Walt graciously became secretary pro-tem. His skill with sign calligraphy is evident throughout the Museum.

While we join Calista in missing Walt, we also join with her and the family, in remembering the many things he had accomplished for his family, the Society of Founders, and his many, many friends.

Respectfully submitted,
Ann-etta Cannon, President