It is difficult for those of us who remember World War II to realize that it is 60 years since the “D” Day landing on Normandy’s beaches and the beginning of the final year of that terrible war.

As we honor our veterans of that war with a fitting memorial in Washington D.C. and pay homage to our war dead of all conflicts it reminds us of the perseverance and sacrifices of our Pilgrim ancestors. We are all obliged to continue the “lively experiment” our forefathers nurtured in building this great country. It’s our turn to carry the baton and hope that historians will some day look upon these current times favorably and say we did our best.

This spring we had a successful Executive Committee meeting at the General Society’s library. At that time we appointed Brad Gorham as vice president to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Richard Howland Maxwell in November. We also appointed Jonathan Stubbs to the position of assistant treasurer. Both were approved until the annual meeting at which time they would be elected by the general membership.

Howland House opened the season on May 28. An appraisal of the house has been completed. Brad’s report of the shallop Elizabeth Tilley’s agenda was also noted.

The dig will continue this summer and we are looking for a curator for Rocky Nook. A vote was made to create a capital fund committee to raise money for long range capital projects. John Howland was authorized to arrange for an official Howland website with webmaster Joseph Howland Wood.

A possible trip to England in 2005 or 2006 was discussed and we are in contact with an agency but have no final plans. Hopefully we will have a proposal for approval at the annual meeting. Marilyn and I hope to see many of you in August. Have a pleasant and safe summer.

This article appeared in the June 2004 issue of The Howland Quarterly.