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
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.