To the editor:

As we begin the New Year, the Bristol Middle Passage Port Marker Project wishes to thank the Rogers Free Library and, specifically, Eileen Dyer, Library Director, and Ann Kathrin Weldy, Adult Services Director, for their considerable support during the display of our models throughout December.

Our intention from the outset was to invite the Bristol community to participate in determining which of the three models would be selected as the winning submission for the memorial BMPPMP proposes for placement in Independence Park. What would be the very best place to engage the community? It was an easy decision to approach our magnificent library.

Both Eileen and Ann Kathrin were excited and very supportive of our desires and, after thoughtful consideration and discussion, agreed to place our models just inside the Hope Street entrance where they were readily accessible to the public. We could not have been more pleased.

During the month of December around 200 members of the community came to view the models and to leave a thoughtful comment about one or more of them. Some were “short and sweet” while others were extensive and very thoughtfully constructed. It’s important to note that there were very few negative comments which only reinforces the community’s strong support for this project. We are humbled and pleased.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank you, Eileen and Ann Kathrin, as well as all members of the community for your support throughout this process.

E. Keith Maloney
Member of Bristol Middle Passage Port Marker Project Board
72 Griswold Ave.