Dateline: February 7, 2002
Fundraising underway for courthouse project
More
than 70 contributors have responded to the efforts of the Donley County
Historical Commission (DCHC) to raise funds for the courthouse renovation
and restoration, but more money is still needed to complete the project.
Last
summer construction bids came in much higher than anticipated. Now,
efforts are being made to raise $400,000 to ensure the completion of the
restoration. The county intends to solicit a good portion of these funds
from private foundations, and a demonstration of significant local
financial support is now needed to bolster those applications for larger
donations.
The
DCHC has set the goal of raising at least $75,000 locally. A recent
mail-out campaign has netted donations ranging from $4 to $1500,
indicating interest and support from all parts of the county. As of Monday
morning, more than $11,000 has been donated to the project.
In
addition to completing the project, the goal of the DCHC fundraiser is to
help reinstate work, which was eliminated from the original plans when it
became evident that state grant money could not cover all restoration
costs. Restoring the stained glass window and replacing some of the more
deteriorated exterior stonework are examples of work which can only happen
if fundraising efforts are well supported.
The
Donley County Courthouse Preservation Fund needs the financial support of
all individuals, organizations, and businesses throughout Donley County. A
special request for financial assistance to this unique and unusual
project is also extended to those with roots or family ties to this
historic county.
The
Donley County Courthouse was constructed more than 110 years ago and is
the oldest operating courthouse in the Texas Panhandle. In its earliest
days, the building housed jurisdiction over 10 other Panhandle counties. A
year ago, the courthouse was in desperate need of repair. A year from now,
that same building will resemble the fine, sound structure that County
Commissioner Col. Charles Goodnight helped dedicate in 1891.
The
DCHC board extends its gratitude to those who have already chosen to help
restore an important part of Panhandle history with their financial
contributions for having the foresight to restore and preserve this
building for future generations to enjoy. Now the DCHC is asking for the
support of other citizens, businesses, organizations, Donley County
natives, and people from the surrounding area to help write a new chapter
in the history of the Donley County Courthouse.
Those
wishing to assist in this historic project may send donations to Donley
County Courthouse Preservation Fund, PO Box 825, Clarendon, TX 79226.
For more information about the courthouse restoration, check out our
website at www.ClarendonOnline.com and click on the courthouse logo.
Information is also available from the state at http://www.thc.state.tx.us/courthouse/CH1.html