In 2015 PCHS partnered with the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota in conducting an Evaluation of Building Conditions, Decorative Finishes & Reuse Alternatives for the Ferris Grand Block, specifically the Masonic Hall portion of the building. This evaluation has served as a conditions assessment as the rehabilitation and preservation of the building moves forward.
In 2019 PCHS received a grant through the Minnesota Historical Society with funds provided by the State of Minnesota from the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. This grant will fund architectural drawings needed to complete the physical work which will occur in the next phase.
The 2015 Evaluation specifically outlined these critical areas of structural stabilization that need to be addressed:
- Several sections of charred & substandard framing in the basement that were modified during the 1993 remodeling. Beam supports and connections should be code compliant.
- One of the original timber roof trusses appears to be suffering deflection at its midspan.
- Interior & Exterior repointing proceeded by a comprehensive masonry study. Lime mortar joints need to be raked out and repointed throughout the exterior and where possible on the interior.
- Additionally, the overall roof is nearing the end of its lifespan and will need to be replaced.
In 2020, PCHS hired LHB Inc. architects to create the construction documents on these specific areas of work. This project is underway and on track to be completed in the spring of 2021. PCHS plans to pursue Phase III at that time, which will begin the physical construction work necessary to carry this building into the future.
Pipestone County Museum 