OUR CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
A look at what we're working toward, what needs to happen next, and how you can be part of it.
Preserving the past.
Preparing the space for what comes next.
WHERE WE ARE AND WHERE WE'RE GOING
The Patton House Gives Us Room to Grow
The Patton House Museum has given the Curwensville Area Historical Society an opportunity to do much more than we could before. We have space to preserve and share local history, welcome visitors, develop new exhibits, host programs and events, and create new ways for people to connect with the stories of our area.
We also have parts of the building that we cannot yet use to their full potential.
Our capital campaign is about changing that. Right now, we are concentrating on the essential infrastructure work that needs to happen first. Electrical upgrades, HVAC improvements, and foundation and basement wall repairs are our immediate priorities.
They aren't the end goal. They are what make the rest of the vision possible.
WHAT NEEDS TO HAPPEN FIRST
Our Immediate Priorities
Foundation & Basement Wall Repair
Structural work is needed along a portion of the foundation and basement wall. Addressing it now helps prevent further deterioration and protects the building and everything happening above it.
Current estimate: Approximately $35,000
“We aren't taking tour groups into this part of the basement, but we want people to know what we're dealing with. Some of the most important work we do to preserve the Patton House won't be visible once it's finished.”
Electrical Upgrades
The electrical system needs to be updated to safely support the way the Patton House is being used today and how we hope to use it in the future.
This work is also an important step toward making additional areas of the building, including the third floor, available for exhibits, collections, programs, and more.
Current estimate for the next phase: $21,850
HVAC System Repair & Upgrade
Reliable heating and cooling are important for comfortable year-round use of the Patton House and for creating better conditions for the collections housed here.
Current estimate: $8000
WHAT THIS WORK MAKES POSSIBLE
Those Projects Are Only the Beginning
Fixing an electrical system or repairing a basement wall isn't especially exciting by itself.
What those projects make possible is.
Opening More of the House
Opening up the third floor and the rest of the second floor give us additional space with tremendous potential. Infrastructure improvements are among the first steps toward putting more of that space to use.
Creating Better Exhibits and Experiences
Additional usable space and updated systems give us more flexibility to develop exhibits, share collections, incorporate technology, and tell more of the stories that make our community unique.
Welcoming More of the Community
We want the Patton House to continue becoming a place for programs, educational opportunities, research, meetings, events, and community partnerships.
Protecting What Has Been Entrusted to Us
The building itself is historic, but so are the photographs, documents, artifacts, family histories, and other materials housed inside it. Improving the building helps us care for those collections and make them more accessible.
THERE'S MORE THAN ONE WAY TO BE PART OF THIS
Where Do You See Yourself?
The capital campaign requires financial support, but money is only one part of what will move this vision forward. Some people will see a project they want to help fund. Others may have professional skills or services that could help us complete the work.
Someone else may know a business owner, contractor, foundation, organization, or individual who would immediately connect with what we're trying to accomplish. And some people may simply discover that they want to become more involved with the Historical Society itself.
Financial Support
Make a contribution toward the campaign, support a particular project, or make a pledge over time.
Skills, Services & Materials
Professional expertise, skilled labor, materials, equipment, or other in-kind contributions may help reduce the cost of individual projects.
Connections
Sometimes the most valuable thing someone can say to us is, "I know someone you should talk to." Introductions to individuals, businesses, organizations, foundations, contractors, and other potential partners can open doors we might not otherwise reach.
Time & Involvement
Become involved with the Historical Society, volunteer, contribute knowledge or expertise, or help with future programs and projects. A great first step is membership.
Momentum So Far
The campaign is already moving forward with lead gifts of $15,000 and $10,000, along with additional donations and pledged commitments. We are also actively pursuing grant opportunities and other sources of funding. There is still significant work ahead, and there is room for many more people to become part of what happens next.
Come See It for Yourself
Visit the Patton House. Come walk through the building with us, see both the needs and the possibilities, and learn more about what we're working toward.
We're open Sundays from 1-4pm.
Click to Contact the Capital Campaign Committee
Click to DONATE NOW
