Elcho Historical Society Advances Plans for 2026 Grand Opening and Grange Hall Restoration

Elcho Historical Society Advances Plans for 2026 Grand Opening and Grange Hall Restoration

Highlights from the Elcho Historical Society, Inc. Meeting of November 13, 2025

Executive Summary

During the November meeting, the Elcho Historical Society focused heavily on preparations for the major Grand Opening scheduled for July 4, 2026, while reporting significant progress on the restoration of Grange Hall and the Fish House. The board also reviewed a healthy financial position with over $66,000 in combined accounts and discussed ongoing grant applications to support facility upgrades.

Planning for the 2026 Grand Opening

A primary focus of the evening was the detailed planning for the society's Grand Opening, officially set for July 4, 2026. The board reviewed a diverse lineup of activities intended for the event, including a kid’s scavenger hunt, raffles, and a craft show. To celebrate the region's history, the opening will feature car, boat, and tractor shows.

To ensure high visibility for the event, the society discussed the installation of a large 60” x 114” sign on Highway 45. Additionally, discussions regarding items available for purchase in the gift shop following the opening were initiated.

Restoration and Facility Updates

Progress continues on the physical preservation of the society's assets. At Grange Hall, movers have successfully relocated display cases to the upper level.

Significant interior work was reported, including the installation of wainscoting by Dan Wink. Painting of the window frames is nearing completion, with only two remaining. Additionally, Otto Tiegs donated the metal piping required for the deck handrails.

The society is also moving forward with the Fish House restoration. A "Remington Grant" application is being submitted shortly to assist with this project. Future plans discussed included a bathroom addition—a freestanding structure to be located between Grange Hall and the Fish House. Support letters for the Fish House restoration have already been received from UCC, Holy Family, Builders Service, and the Elcho School.

Financials and Funding

The Treasurer reported a solid financial standing.

• Operating Account: $31,922.76
• Building Restoration Account: $35,029.98

Recent expenditures covered practical restoration needs, including gable vents, electrical labor, and supplies for barn quilts.

Regarding external funding, while a Heritage Grant was declined, the society is actively pursuing corporate matching and support, having sent letters to Kraft Heinz and Mondelez. A commemorative coin has also been received as part of the funding and historical collection efforts.

Communications and Outreach

The society’s digital footprint continues to grow. Facebook membership rose to 2,592, and the website recorded 307 visits, a significant increase from the previous month.

Publication Updates:

• Fall Newsletter: Currently at the printer, featuring a "lumberyard series."
• Spring Newsletter: Tyler Schilling is tasked with completing an article on the "Radiation Forest," while Debi Mejak will write a piece covering the upcoming Grand Opening.
• Digitizing Project: Lisa Haefs reported that the Antigo Daily Journal digitizing project is "well underway."

Key Action Items & Announcements

• Signage: Chris and Vince Dumas presented a concept for a new outdoor sign, with more information to follow.
• Schedule Change: It was decided that meetings in March and April will be moved to the first Thursday of the month.