GRAVETTE — Construction of a new 2,400 square foot exhibit hall at the Gravette Historical Museum is expected to begin soon. That announcement comes from John Lee Mitchael, Chairman of the Gravette Museum Commission, which operates the museum in the historic Kindley House, located on Charlotte Street SE.

Mitchael and his son, Steve Mitchael, met with representatives of the Heritage Division of the Arkansas Historical Preservation Program in Little Rock, June 3 concerning plans for the new structure.

Grant Received

The Museum has received a $25,0000 grant for the project and added to funds the museum has received through donations, as well as for dinners and luncheons, the project is about to start when final approval of the building is received.

The new structure originally was designed to retain an exterior brick facade in keeping with the Kindley House which is listed on the State and National Historical Registers. However, during discussion, it was determined a structure more in keeping with the pre-1900 house is preferable. This involves a change in roofline and the use of a rustic wood facade. A staked-out plot of the proposed site was published several months ago in The News Herald.

Mitchael said the suggestions made by the Division personnel were very acceptable and final drawings, etc., are being prepared for submission and approval.

Once approval is obtained, site preparation for the building can begin and construction will proceed as more funds become available. “We hope to be able to hold an open house on Gravette Day 2011,” Mitchael said.

Space Is Needed

The new plan will incorporate the building which presently houses the miniature Gravette diorama into a one-level structure to be located south and west of the brick Kindley house. Appropriate walkways and landscaping will complement the setting.

The Kindley, house, which was a childhoodhome for World War I Air Ace Captain Field Kindley, for whom Kindley Memorial Park is named, was refurbished with grant funds several years ago. It houses a growing collection of historical artifacts from Gravette and the area from the early 1900 era.

The new building will provide a 1,500 square foot exhibit room as well as a work room and rest rooms, along with redesigning the above mentioned building. Funds for furnishing display cases, etc. must also be secured.

Donations Appreciated

Persons who have interest in preserving Gravette’s and the area’s history and who wish to contribute to this project may contact Mitchael, 787-6580, or other members of the Commission: Leland Brandon, Jane Dunagin, Steve Mitchael, Lori Mc-Namara, Jay Mitchael, Faye Gould, Allyson Ransom, Darryl Brandon, Sean Casey, Mike von Ree, Bill Meade and Louise Evans.

Contributions designated for the project may also be made at Gravette City Hall.

News, Pages 1 on 06/16/2010