Interior work on the building housing the Great Barrington Historical Society Museum proceeded very well over the winter, although interior work for the Dutch Wagon House is waiting for additional funds.

Heating Plant update

Thanks to the generosity of Bev and Kim Kimball and the hardworking technicians at Kimball Oil, the oil-fired boiler has been updated, and the old oil tank and fuel line replaced and brought up to code. The building is not only warm now, but the heating is finally efficient!

Upgrading the electrical wiring

Electrician Michael Leining and his crew from Leining Electric have been replacing the old “knob and tube” wiring with updated shielded cable. This job is nearing completion, thanks to their hard work. Funding for this project was acquired through a 2016 Community Preservation Act (CPA) grant. It’s great to now have quality, safe wiring throughout the building.

Making way for the handicap-accessible bathroom

Thanks to the hard work of volunteer (and GBHS Archivist) Gary Leveille, the old cabinets in the former rear kitchen area have been removed to make way for a handicap-accessible bathroom. A 2017 CPA grant funded this project, which is currently awaiting a Town permit in order to begin construction.

Dutch Wagon House addition

Interior work on the Dutch Wagon House is awaiting additional funding. Being a non-profit organization means constant fundraising–so the speed at which we can finish the interior depends on the generosity of donors. We’re looking forward to having this wonderful area to showcase more of our large collection of artifacts and to having a space large enough to conduct meetings.