Historic Museum project full steam ahead
By SHARON KERR Staff Writer

Newsboy photo/Sharon Kerr JUAN FLORES has a lot of ideas for the third floor of the museum. It was once a Masonic hall and a dance studio.The Historic Society hopes to preserve the wood floor and architectural details.Windows overlook the courthouse square.

After a lull following Hurricane Rita, the Jasper County Historical Museum project is off and running again.

Rita ripped the roof off, followed by water damage to floors and walls. For three sweltering weeks in 2005 without electricity, Jasper had more pressing concerns than preserving the old building at 165 N. Main.

However, construction is now in full swing. Museum board president Jeanette Coffield took board members on a tour last Wednesday, Aug. 15, to discuss plans for the future.

The roof has been repaired, mold abatement accomplished, walls at street level are lined with pink studs, and the members are far enough along to be discussing colors for the slat walls and lighting for the displays.

Grant writer Janett Blackwell told the board she is seeking matching grants for $129,000 from various organizations to complete construction.

The building was donated by entrepreneur Tom Harken, who also helped raise money for renovation.

Harken and Coffield asked businesses and community leaders to donate $5,000 per year for five years, to ensure the sustainability of the museum.

"So far, First National Bank of Jasper and the Bonnie and Danny Walker family have made that commitment," Coffield said, "but we expect more will join us as they see our progress."

Plans call for making the building completely handicapped accessible, including a new elevator and atrium at the back. The elevator will serve the mezzanine and the third floor, which was once a Masonic hall and later a dance studio.

The museum will have a rear exit with doors large enough to drive a vehicle into the building, in case they want to display antique cars or buggies.

Contractors are putting in extra wiring to accommodate flexible lighting arrangements and possible future research stations. Plans for the mezzanine level may include computer desks and/or a kitchen and tables.

Planned displays include memorabilia and video interviews of some of the areas most recognized names, including Joe Tonahill, Dr. Joe Dickerson and Arthur Temple.

The board has commitments from local people to donate an antique printing press, old photos, a desk built by the JHS woodshop class in the 1930's, World War II military uniforms and memorabilia.

The Historic Society is not yet ready to accept any donations, for lack of a climate controlled facility to store them.

There is no "grand opening" date set, but the board is considering limited openings for special occasions, perhaps for Fall Fest in October or Veterans Day in November, so that the community can "see the vision" and participate.

For more information, contact Coffield at Lakes Area Hospice, 384-5995, or Liz Street at the Jasper/Lake Sam Rayburn Area Chamber of Commerce, 384-2762.