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$53K gives running water, addition to local museum
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · August 17, 2017
Four years ago, West Branch Heritage Foundation spent $80,000 and fixed up the 1894 building that houses the museum.
Now, the group wants to make it bigger and more modern.
They propose a 17-by-18-foot addition that will cost about $53,100, add storage space and handicapped accessibility and give the museum plumbing and a restroom for the first time in 123 years.
You read that right: In 2017, the downtown building at 109 West Main does not have a sink, commode or any running water.
Two significant donations will cover $45,000 of the project, though the Foundation would like to raise another $15,000 to cover possible construction overrun and boost the museum’s operating fund.
Foundation members Faye Finck and Lou Picek said the group would like to start the work still this year.
“We had some generous donations,” Finck said. “Now we think we can raise the rest.”
The group is working on getting a variance to build toward the alley. They are hopeful for approval since the building to the west already reaches that far back.
“It’s a fairly simple addition,” Finck said.
The addition is as wide as the building and would cover what is now a single parking space.
With a bit more in the operating fund, the Foundation hopes to set regular hours, rather than open by appointment or on special occasions.
“(Though) there’s no guarantees on construction costs,” Finck said.
Finck said the 120-square-foot storage space will mean the Foundation can take in more donations or more borrowed items.
The plumbing will also give them a place to wash items coming in, or that are already on display.
“Right now we tote everything home,” Finck said.
To maximize the storage space, they plan to purchase rolling shelving units.
Getting involved
Those who wish to donate to the Heritage Museum addition may make checks out to West Branch Heritage Foundation and mail them to P.O. Box 501, West Branch, IA 52358.
Donations may also be dropped off at Main Street Antiques 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Anyone wishing to tour the building in advance of making a donation, or anyone with questions may contact Foundation members Lou Picek at 643-2065 or Faye Finck at 643-2315. They will also pick up donations by appointment.
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