A number of citizens have expressed questions relative to the old Newberry sign that once adorned the Newberry's Store. There is a history of how the sign disappeared and then returned to the city, and it is now my hope that the sign will continue to remain in North Adams.
About eight years ago, when I noticed the sign had disappeared, I immediately contacted building owner David Carver, who informed me that the sign was in the possession of Joe Manning. I called Mr. Manning and negotiated an agreement between him and the North Adams Historic Society, which was interested in the sign. Mr. Manning agreed, stipulating that the sign only be on loan to the society.
That agreement was fine to both parties, but unfortunately it never came to fruition. Nevertheless, the sign was returned to the Moulton's General Store, which certainly is an appropriate location.
Now that the store is for sale, it is incumbent that the sign remains in the community. I would hope that Mr. Manning, who claims to have a close connection with the community, will make sure that the sign stays in its place of origin, as it is of historic and artistic value to the people of North Adams.
In rebuilding our city, we must continue to strive to preserve artifacts of our history and now, one wonders if we will have the foresight to preserve the ticket booth that once stood in front of the Mohawk theater.