3. Leeper Park - Navarre Cabin_COA 2023-1106A

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From:G Margaret Porter To:DL-Historic Preservation Subject:Pierre Navarre Cabin Date:Thursday, November 2, 2023 12:31:37 PM Dear Members of the Historic Preservation Commission of South Bend and St. Joseph County, I"m writing to you in support of the proposed move of the Pierre Navarre Cabin from its current location in Leeper Park to the campus of the History Museum. While I understand that the current location is closer to the original location of the cabin and that Leeper Park is on the National Register of Historic Places I believe that a move to the Museum campus would be for the greater good. The preservation of the Navarre Cabin for current and future citizens of South Bend and Saint Joseph county is important. The proposed location would be a more secure area for the cabin than the rather isolated spot in the east side of Leeper Park. Many of us remember the vandalism and arson that befell the Powell house located just feet from the Navarre cabin. Certainly the Museum campus would be a more secure location where a structure of this age and historical significance can be preserved and protected. Field trips for school children are not taking place since the location is so close to the river which makes it difficult for teachers and parents to keep large groups safe. Bus parking is limited and the location does not have restrooms, which is also a deterrent to bringing large groups of young children. The city parks department has no plans for improvements in this area of the park. The Museum campus offers several opportunities for historical education in a safe environment. The educational value of the cabin's history and the history of the early Pokagons in this area will be enhanced by the Native American artifacts housed in the History Museum. The proximity to the African American Worker's house will offer another view of how people lived as would the Oliver Mansion and its historical gardens. While I truly believe we should be vigilant in the preservation of historical buildings and their environments, I am mindful of the need to make history accessible and safe for all current and future citizens of a community. The proposed Museum campus location would accomplish that and I encourage you to be supportive of the History Museum's goals to make historical education and preservation priorities. Sincerely, G.Margaret Porter 4325 Garden Oak Drive South Bend, IN 46628