Dalton Historical Commission May Reissue 'Down Memory Lane'
DALTON, Mass.—The Historical Commission is looking to have a copy of the book "Down Memory Lane" rebound.
The book is a compiled series of weekly columns by the Rev. Franklin L. "Cap" Couch that appeared in the now defunct Dalton News Record from 1972 to 1977.
The project would improve the accessibility of the book so that interested buyers can purchase it because finding a copy is difficult.
There is a question who owns the copyright because the publisher, Berkshire Family History Association, compiled the columns from newspaper but the commission is unsure if it can republish it. The book that Commissioner Bonnie Eastwood has does not have a copyright page.
Couch was pastor of Tyringham Union Church for 21 years and an assistant pastor at First Congregational Church. His nickname came from his time as an Army captain during World War I; he was later recalled to duty in World War II, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was very active in the Dalton community, including as Civil Defense director for many years, and in veterans organizations. His portrait was ceremoniously hung in the Town Hall meeting room in 1977.
His son, Robert Couch, reached out to express that he is willing to help the commission in this endeavor.
Chair Deborah Kovacs plans to invite Couch to a future meetings to discuss the project further.
The town used to sell "Yester-Years of Dalton" calendars during elections and that is something the commission is interested in reinstating.
Eastwood said Studley Press quoted the cost of a perfect binding for $400 to $500 for 10 copies. The Fitch-Hoose House would sell it for $40 to $50.
She will look into how much it would cost to purchase spiral binding and have the commissioners put the book together.
The process of putting together a book with a spiral binding is tedious, Kovacs said.
If the price is only a small difference then it may not be worth choosing that option, Commissioner Carolina Galliher said.
Commissioners asked how they should navigate copyright because they are unsure if they are allowed to reprint and sell the books.
The Fitch-Hoose House will be selling bandanas for $3. The commission spent approximately $50 to purchase 24 bandanas and is also interested in purchasing Hoose House T-shirts.
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