It was with dismay that I read Menhaden artifact reels in Lewes controversy Sept. 4. I was born and raised in Lewes and am old enough to have grown up with the menhaden industry, and understand the profound economic and social effect it had on what was then the small town of Lewes. When the net reel was moved to the historic complex, it seemed to me that it was the perfect spot for it if it could not be next to the canal. I believe that its new location will generate interest in what is an underappreciated part of Lewes history.
The fact that the Lewes Historical Society and the historic preservation commission are at odds over this is ridiculous. This is not about respect for the heritage of Lewes on the part of the historic preservation commission. It is about bruised egos, politics and subjective esthetic judgments.
The LHS is not a bunch of wild-eyed radicals trying to pull a fast one on the historic preservation commission. Judging from the appearance and meticulous maintenance of the LHS complex, it could be argued that the historic preservation commission should be taking their cues from the LHS rather than the other way around.
I urge the historic preservation commission, the LHS and the neighbors who object to the net reel to use this unfortunate incident to rethink their relationship. Leave the net reel where it is and make use of its historic significance. Judging by their names, it seems to me that the Lewes Historical Society and the historic preservation committee should be working together to preserve and promote appreciation for history rather than arguing about the presentation of it.
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