Draper Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Summary - October 22, 2026

The Draper City Historic Preservation Commission met on October 22, 2026, at the Administration Conference Room. An acting chair was selected for the evening due to the absence of the regular chair and staff. The commission approved the previous meeting minutes and the 2027 meeting schedule. Key discussions included reviews of the Widowmaker event, budget allocations for historic surveys and a video home tour, and updates on historical research projects. Note: The posted agenda lists the meeting date as October 21, 2026, creating a discrepancy with the date provided for this summary.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of meeting minutes from September 16 and September 30, 2026. (Motion carried, unanimous.)
• Adoption of the 2027 meeting schedule, taking July and December off. (Motion carried, unanimous.)

Discussion Items

• Ethnic and Minority History Research: Commissioner David reported that the Coggy family is reluctant to participate further in public history events due to privacy concerns. The commission discussed strategies to address the family's hesitation, including sharing positive community feedback.
• Walking Tour Brochures: Commissioner David reported distributing brochures to libraries, senior centers, and a charter school. New businesses and hotels were suggested as future distribution points.
• Widowmaker Event Recap: With the lead commissioner absent, the group shared praise for the event, noting attendance estimates ranged from at least 50 to upwards of 100 attendees. The commission will formally recognize the lead commissioner's efforts at the next meeting.
• Draper Bank Sign Update: Commissioner Nancy stated the project is awaiting legal paperwork from the city attorney. Plans include installing a sign and a framed history display at the bank.
• Budget Review: Staff reviewed the remaining budget, noting approximately $1,800 unallocated. Funds are available for intensive level surveys or national register nominations.
• Intensive Level Surveys and National Register Nominations: Commissioners discussed options for using the remaining budget. The Henry Day House and Pirate O's were highlighted as potential candidates. Commissioners will gather property owner interest before making a formal decision.
• Walk-through Video Tour of Historic Homes: The commission voted to proceed with a video tour of the Nielsen House on Fort Street. The home is currently vacant, and the Nielsen family is willing to narrate. Funds were allocated. (Motion carried, unanimous.)
• Dominguez-Escalante Expedition Article: Commissioner Wendy confirmed the article is scheduled for the upcoming issue of Draper 40.
• Slavery in Early Draper Research: Commissioner Wendy provided an update on research into the graves of the children of a formerly enslaved woman, who died in 1866. She is coordinating with an expert to visit the possible gravesite. A future discussion on Native American history in Draper was proposed.
• Historical Society Coordination: Commissioner Nancy Nichols was appointed as the liaison to the Draper Historical Society.

Key Outcomes

• Votes: Approved the minutes and the 2027 meeting schedule.
• Agenda Vote: Approved a motion to adjust the agenda order.
• Appointment: Nancy Nichols assigned as Draper Historical Society Liaison.
• Decision: Approved budget and plan for a video tour of the Nielsen Home.
• Directive: Commissioners will contact property owners regarding interest in intensive level surveys.
• Next Steps: Follow-up on owner interest, coordinate the video tour, and continue historical research on slavery in Draper.