The historical marker commemorating Elizabeth Gurley Flynn was taken down by the state shortly after its installation last spring. (The only one ever removed, of 289 erected since this program began in 1958.) Executive Councilor David Wheeler, one of those responsible for its removal, is quoted in the Monday Concord Monitor as stating, “It’s not part of my history,” referring to Ms. Flynn’s connection to the Communist Party. Following this logic, it seems that other historical markers must also be removed. Many, perhaps most, historical markers are not a direct part of Councilor Wheeler’s history. He was not a member of the Canterbury Shakers. He was not involved in Barney and Betty Hill’s experience with aliens, and had nothing to do with the invention of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Did Councilor Wheeler ever live on the Isles of Shoals, participate in a log drive, visit the numerous homes recognized, attend or join the myriad of churches honored? He is not native American nor was he, as a child, protected by a bear. I’m sure that each of us could find markers representing a philosophy which we find disagreeable. However, these historic markers represent the history of all of us. The opinions of a few were insufficient reason to cause the removal of the historical marker honoring Elizabeth Gurley Flynn. I believe that the state needs both to allow for the writing of impartial guidelines for these markers, and not to dismiss the lawsuit filed for restoration of this particular marker.
Teresa Wyman
Canterbury