Elcho Historical Society Finalizes July 4th Grand Opening Plans and Approves Grange Hall Improvements

The Elcho Historical Society advanced preparations for its highly anticipated July 4th Grand Opening and approved a new exterior railing bid for the Grange Hall during its May monthly meeting. The Society also reviewed its solid financial standing across its restoration accounts and issued an urgent call for community volunteers to assist with upcoming summer events.

Financial Status and Grange Hall Restoration

Treasurer Greg Mejak delivered a detailed financial report, revealing a total of $79,642.01 held across three dedicated accounts:

• Operating Account: $24,581.81
• Grange Building Restoration Account: $30,060.20
• Fish House Restoration Account: $25,000.00

While major remaining tasks for the Grange Hall restoration include heat ducts, landscaping, deck railings, and a family information kiosk, several improvements are actively moving forward. The attendees unanimously approved a bid from Elcho Plumbing and Heating to install a black gas line railing on the front of the building.

Additional progress on the property includes recent tree removal, rough grading, and ongoing display case refurbishments. Security upgrades are also being explored, with quotes underway for security cameras and a Starlink internet connection to support both the security system and the upcoming information kiosk.

July 4th Grand Opening and Summer Events

Logistics were reviewed for the Grand Opening on July 4, 2026, which will feature car, boat, tractor, and craft shows on the Grange corner property. Representatives from the South Greenville Grange will be stationed inside the museum to share the organization's history. To support marketing efforts, 400 additional copies of the activities schedule and event map are being printed.

The Society noted an urgent need for community assistance with two upcoming summer fundraisers:

• Brat Barn (May 22): The Society is seeking dessert donations to sell at the event. Interested donors should contact Greg Mejak.
• Music in the Park (July 1): Volunteers are critically needed to prepare the main meal (traditionally 28 pounds of pulled pork). Due to intensive Grand Opening preparations, regular coordinator Debi Mejak is unable to prepare the meal this year.

Operations, Grants, and Outreach

The Society's membership currently stands at 247 members, complemented by a growing digital footprint. The organization is approaching 3,000 members on Facebook and reported consistent growth in website traffic and Google Business profile views.

In funding updates, the Society is awaiting a decision on a Wisconsin Historical Society Mini-Grant for Past Perfect museum software. Additionally, the Sheldon Grant application has been finalized and submitted for a June deadline.

Looking toward future operations, the Society has introduced a updated Deed of Gift form that includes provisions for temporary item loans. Leadership has also begun gathering suggestions for regular museum operating hours and is compiling a list of volunteers to assist with data entry for the new historical kiosk.

Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Grange Hall. Members and the public should note that the meeting day has been changed from Thursday to Tuesday for the upcoming month.