South Bristol resident Jim Wade, proprietor of D & L Screen Printers Inc. in Newcastle, has donated an intricate, hand-carved, three-dimensional sign to the town.
The two-sided sign features wood posts and a white aluminum oval that says “South Bristol Town Office – Founded 1915.” The center of the oval is cut out and in its place is a carving of a red and white lobster boat on blue waves.
The lettering on the hull of the lobster boat reads “ME SB 1915.”
The sign stands on the lawn of the town office between Clark’s Cove Road and the parking lot.
South Bristol Selectman Chester Rice said Wade approached him about building the sign and donating it to the town.
“I like my taxes where they are, so I gave a little back,” Wade said.
Wade built his Walpole home and moved in seven years ago. His tax bill dropped from $9000 at his previous home to less than $1000 in South Bristol.
This year, the mil rate is $3 per $1000 of value, a fraction of the rate in most nearby towns.
Wade specifically noted the work of Rice, who, in his mid-70s, can still be seen filling potholes on town roads.
“I just really appreciate what they do for us down there,” Wade said.
He said the sign represents about a week and a half of steady work. He carved the boat and waves out of a material called “sign foam” using hand tools like gouges and knives.
“I had fun doing it,” he said. “I enjoy my work.”