SIDNEY — Shelby County commissioners met with Tilda Phlipot, Tuesday, at her request to confirm what role the Shelby County Historical Society will play in the upcoming celebration of the 135th anniversary and recent renovations of the Shelby County courthouse.
The event is planned to take place on the courtsquare and inside the courthouse, June 19 from 2 to 5 p.m.
Original plans called for the society to exhibit artifacts, including chairs from the original courthouse, original sketches of downtown Sidney and ledgers in a tent on the lawn. Phlipot requested that the exhibit be moved to inside in order to protect the artifacts.
Commissioner Tony Bornhorst suggested that the display be set up in the grand jury room. The courtrooms will be open to the public, too.
Phlipot also asked for approval to order sweet corn-flavored ice cream. She has discussed with the Shelby County Dairy Boosters their participation to purchase the ice cream from its sources and to serve it in a tent. Lemonade and water will also be served.
Commissioner Julie Ehemann said no money from county coffers will be used to cover celebration costs.
“Amy is getting sponsors,” she said. Downtown Sidney Director Amy Breinich reported in February that Westerheide Construction Co. and ESG Energy Systems Group have agreed to support the social. At that time, Breinich said she would contact other contractors who have worked on the courthouse to solicit additional donations.
Plans call for the historical society to provide costumed tour guides to talk about courthouse history. Phlipot told the commissioners Tuesday that society staff has been researching courthouse history to create talking points for the guides.
She also said that she had contacted a vendor in Michigan who will provide a machine to make souvenirs from pennies. The commissioners suggested that at least 100 pennies be made in advance for presentation to workmen who completed the renovations.
The Sidney Civic Band will perform for the celebration and a video shot by Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Gilman about the courthouse will be shown in two locations inside the building.
Commissioners have also planned a tree-planting ceremony. Commissioner Bob Guillozet said the location has been chosen and the tree “is ready to go.”
