Historical Association gears up for big move

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ELLSWORTH -- After over a year of tedious and detailed work, the Pierce County Historical Association is within a few weeks of making a major move to

new quarters.

Work on the Lawrence bungalow and property has been progressing and has now reached the point where a move will soon be made.

Located across the street from the Pierce County Courthouse, the new quarters is said to be an ideal location.

The bungalow is ready to use, but the studio and former office and kitchen area still must be completed.

More money must be raised, and two bathrooms must be constructed.

From the three smallish rooms on the lower level of the Ellsworth Village Hall that PCHA has called home for almost 10 years, the Lawrence house will add much more space.

There are four rooms on the second floor that will be used for processing, scanning photos, storage and general work.

The first floor has a porch, living room, smaller room, and the former dining room space that will be used by the public -- many people come to do family research and other historically related tasks.

This level will be used also for PCHA executive board meetings and other related activities.

Painting is completed on the upper level and working plumbing is in place -- the refinishing of the floors there has begun.

What remains to be completed is painting and floor work on the main level, but that, too, should be completed within a short time.

PCHA representatives say what is needed now are volunteers to pack, load, haul, carry in and place the extensive contents from the old office.

Many four-drawer legal-sized filing cabinets, wood- and steel-shelving units and their contents, along with tables, chairs, and other items have to be moved.

Once the move is done, there is a long period of work ahead to properly organize materials.

Volunteers will be needed to work on those projects, much of it over winter before the new place opens for the public.

Cash donations are sought. Completing the renovation is the major goal – sooner rather than later.

If you can donate or have time and can be of help with the move, please contact the PCHA office at 715-273-6611 on Mondays or Thursdays, or call Audrey Gilbertson, 715-792-5182.

Tags: history, wisconsin, announcements