Fundraising efforts for the Donley County Courthouse restoration received a boost last week when the Clarendon Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) pledged $15,000 to the project.
The CEDC board unanimously approved the funds at their regular meeting last Tuesday. County Judge Jack Hall and Donley County Historical Commission Chairman Jean Stavenhagen discussed the project, and board members were given a tour of the work going on inside the building.
The funds will be split up with $7,500 being contributed now and another $7,500 to be given in October.
Stavenhagen hopes the CEDC’s donation will spur other people and organizations to contribute.
“It really may open the door to other people realizing the project does have community support,” she said. “It’s the biggest donation we’ve had so far, and it’s important that it came from a local source. It really will give us a boost.”
CEDC President Bob Watson was impressed with the work.
“The woodwork is going to be beautiful, and it will be something Donley County can be proud of,” Watson said. “We’d like to encourage everyone to support this project.”
The CEDC board believes the restored courthouse will be an economic asset to the town and will boost heritage tourism.
“It will definitely improve economic development in Clarendon by being a tourist attraction,” he said. “There’s a tremendous number of people who travel to look at historical places, and Clarendon and Donley County both have a lot to offer.”
The CEDC’s contribution nearly doubled the funds donated to the project. Other contributions as of Monday afternoon totaled $16,649 with citizens, organizations, businesses giving anywhere from $5 to $2,000.
The local historical commission is trying to raise $400,000 to complete the courthouse restoration and reinstate work that had to be deleted due to budget constraints. The commission hopes to raise $75,000 locally and solicit the remainder from foundations.
Those wishing to help with this project may send a donation to Donley County Courthouse Preservation Fund, PO Box 825, Clarendon, TX 79226
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