Museum seeking artifacts

GRAVETTE — The Gravette Historical Museum is seeking artifacts to add to its collection as it prepares to move into the new annex which is being completed.

The 2,400-square-foot building will house permanent and rotating exhibits which have been on display in the historic Kindley House for many years. The new structure will allow the public to view and enjoy many items which have local and area historical interest.

The annex is designed in a rustic style to complement the period when Gravette was founded in 1893. It houses the early Gravette diorama which will complement a large display room. A work area, storage space and restrooms make it a very functional structure.

Steve Mitchael, a member of the Museum Commission, said, “As you clean out your garage or barn this year please consider donating to the Gravette Museum any items that would have depicted life on the farm or in a rural community during the early part of the 1900s. Examples might include old bottles or cans, tools, farming equipment, signs, veterinary supplies, license plates, car parts or old furniture. All items gifted to the museum are tax deductible.

“For more information about the museum or to make a donation, please contact the Gravette City Hall or any commission member,” he said.

Plans are being made for a grand opening of the new facility during Gravette’s annual celebration the second Saturday in August.

The Kindley House was purchased and refurbished through a grant and generous donations by citizens.

A grant from the StateHistorical Preservation Agency partially funded the new building, along with donations, fund raisers and much volunteer work to bring the project to a successful conclusion.

The museum is open to the public each Tuesday from noon to 4 p.m., Thursday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Group tours can be arranged. There is no admission fee, but donations are appreciated to help with upkeep and additional costs.

Members of the Museum Commission include chairman John Lee Mitchael, Darryl Brandon, Leland Brandon, Sean Casey, Jane Dunagin, Louise Evans, Faye Gould, Lori Mc-Namara, Bill Meade, Jay Mitchael, Steve Mitchael, Allyson Ransom and Mike von Ree. Sheila Martin is museum guide.