BOTKINS — Gary Wilson, of the greater Nashville area, a great-grandson of the Fitzpatrick family who were native Botkins residents, donated a sum of money to help start funding the siding project on the Shelby House Museum.
The check was accepted during an ice cream social held at the house by the Botkins Historical Society on Sunday, Aug. 7.
The society is in the process of securing bids for insulation, siding, staining of the siding, new blinds, a new gas line, and an HVAC system. Upgrades to the building will help with preservation of artifacts, permit greater use of the building, and permit visitation and research in an appropriate atmosphere.
The museum was open for full viewing on Sunday, featuring a new collection of Botkins memorabilia by Gerald and Betty Kempfer. Visitors were also able to view videos of past residents relating their history in the village and surrounding area. These interviews were conducted and donated by Dave Mielke.
Membership applications were available, and numerous people and families joined the society. The Botkins Historical Society meets the third Tuesday of each month. Each September, an annual membership meeting will be held.
For further information regarding the Botkins Historical Society visit http://www.botkinshistory.org/ and check out their Facebook page for upcoming events and news.
