On March 12, Hollidaysburg Borough Council temporarily tabled a proposal by the mayor to convert the Reiser House canal-era museum into a Slinky exhibit. I share the concerns expressed by the many constituents who protested his proposition.

As an academic historian, I support new museums and do not object to a Slinky tribute. However, I adamantly oppose replacing canal displays. If the James family — the originators of the toy — or Just Play Products wish to create such an attraction, they are financially well suited to repurpose a vacant downtown building to achieve that aim.

The Reiser House interprets Hollidaysburg’s vital role in early transportation. The small but tasteful museum features artifacts, models and art, complimenting the park’s canal-themed playground. All told, the space deserves to be enhanced, not dismantled.

The best sustainability option for the site is obvious: The property should be granted to Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site as a satellite tourism destination. When that nearby national park was established in 1964, its founding legislation noted that it could gain “land and historic features as may be necessary to illustrate the significant role of the Allegheny Portage Railroad and the Pennsylvania Canal in the nation’s history.” Attaining the prestige and publicity of a National Park Service site in its historic district, Hollidaysburg would reap substantial economic reward.

But first, the historical integrity of the Reiser House must be preserved. I urge Hollidaysburg residents to demand as such at the borough council meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday April 9.

Dr. Jared Frederick

Altoona