An Order Establishing the Maine Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee

March 9, 2009

26 FY 08/09

WHEREAS, the Civil War Sesquicentennial will be commemorated in the United State beginning in 2011; and

WHEREAS, Maine played a significant role in the conflict of 1861-1865; and

WHEREAS, it is important to begin planning the State’s contribution to the national observance of the Civil War Sesquicentennial for the educational benefit of our citizens and visitors to the State; and

WHEREAS, several state agencies have historical, educational and archival materials and programs to contribute to the Sesquicentennial; and

WHEREAS, state agencies can support, enhance and coordinate private efforts to commemorate this historic event;

NOW THEREFORE, I, John Elias Baldacci, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby establish the Maine Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee.

Purpose and Duties

The Maine Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee shall plan the State’s contribution to the national observance of the Civil War, and shall serve as a resource for the public and for non-State organizations in commemorating this historic event. The Committee shall:

  1. Encourage the creation of educational programs, exhibits, and publications for the general public, schools, libraries, historical societies, veterans’ groups and others regarding the Civil War, to enhance public understanding and interest in the War;

  2. Enhance understanding and appreciation of the role of the State and its people in the War;

  3. Coordinate activities among state agencies and other state entities to note the Sesquicentennial;

  4. Promote visits by Maine residents and visitors to Civil War sites, including state-owned coastal forts as well as memorials and monuments;

  5. Ensure that the public has access to information about Sesquicentennial events; and

  6. Encourage members of the public to observe the Sesquicentennial in their communities.

Membership

The Maine Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee shall include the State Historian, who shall chair the Committee, and the following persons, or their designees:

  • Director, Maine State Museum
  • Director, Maine Historical Society
  • Director, Maine State Archives
  • Adjutant General
  • Director, Office of Tourism
  • Commissioner of Education
  • Historian, Bureau of Parks and Lands
  • President, University of Maine

The chair will schedule and set the agenda for, and preside at Committee meetings. The members of the Committee shall serve without compensation.

Report

The Committee shall submit an annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature, summarizing its activities beginning December 1, 2009.

Effective Date

The effective date of this Executive Order is March 9, 2009.

John E. Baldacci, Governor