by Norm Shotwell
The Pentwater Historical Society (PHS) membership has approved plans to expand the Society’s Museum. The expansion will double the available display space, provide meeting space for the Society and community groups, and enhance the research capability of the Society and its guests.
Actual design and construction will begin after the fundraising phase, which has already begun. The first phase of the project will cost about $400,000. The Society has matching pledges of $135,000 and pledges towards that match are being made.
In parallel with fund raising, the PHS Board is establishing focus groups in order to develop details for various aspects of the expansion. Listed here are the groups currently planned. If you would like to participate in a group, contact Norm Shotwell via email (shn1607@gmail.com).
Fundraising
- The exterior look
- The mechanical and electrical system for museum use
- How to improve the existing entrance to the museum
- Building structure system
- Artifact layout in the existing and new display areas
- Artifact presentation
- Permanent vs rotating displays in the museum
- Warming kitchen layout and function
- How to create usable space in the north east open area
- Event needs
- School group needs
- Researcher needs
The PHS will attempt to incorporate materials from structures that might be demolished or repurposed. It has already captured some Pentwater bricks from a demolished structure in Hart, and additional brick could be recovered from the Pentwater Community Hall building if it were to be demolished. The feasibility of removing the old basketball court flooring for use in the expansion is under review.
The PHS is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. If you would like to donate towards this exciting addition to Pentwater’s character, please do so via the Community Foundation for Oceana County. The PHS established a project fund with the Foundation to help with gift administration and to hold campaign contributions in a money market fund. Contributions can be sent to the Foundation via check, cash wire, stock transfer, or IRA funds, designated for the PHS Building Expansion Fund. For assistance in facilitating gifts of any size or type, contact Tammy Carey at the Foundation at (231) 869-3377.