A rash of mindless destruction in Marcellus has left many residents wondering, why?
Within the past few weeks, a bench has been stolen from the cemetery, flower boxes decorating the signs for Maple and Christler streets have been pulled and dumped — and then there’s what’s been done to the Steadman House, home of the Marcellus Historical Society.
Three weeks ago, someone pulled the parking sign out of the concrete. Just recently, the same day the flower boxes were dumped, irreversible damage was done to the sign in front of the house — an anonymous gift made to the society when the house opened in 2007 estimated at around $1,500. The sign was made from an expensive material meant to withstand the elements and last many years. The spotlights illuminating the sign were also damaged.
The gifted sign was not insured by the Marcellus Historical Society, which runs entirely on donations and volunteerism. Even the Steadman House was donated.
With multiple incidents occurring all at once at various spots, it’s hard to say the vandalism was done with any intention other than to blow off some steam or have some fun with friends. This does not make it okay.
“To think that someone wants to do damage to it is unbelievable to me,” said Peg Nolan. “I just don’t get it.”
It’s a shame such destructive behavior had to find its way to the Historical Society, which is currently celebrating 50 years of service to Marcellus.
The vandals did not know the worth of the sign, but that is beside the point.
Vandalism occurs out of careless rebellion; with the clear pattern of wreckage in the village, it was only a matter of time before something of serious value fell victim to vandals.
The readers of this paper do not need to be told not to vandalize. Instead, I encourage you not to treat vandalism lightly. If you see something, say something.
