The Board of Directors of the Limestone County Historical Museum met at the Groesbeck Library on Aug. 27 and those in attendance voted unanimously to fully investigate the possibility of building a new museum at a site between Groesbeck and Mexia.
The proposal had been under consideration since last spring when a planning committee was appointed to weigh the advisability of making repairs and improvements to the currently owned building located at 210 West Navasota Street in Groesbeck or to investigate building a new facility in a more centralized location. After meetings this summer, the committee reported if a centralized location with high visibility is available and adequate funds can be raised, the planning committee recommends building a new Limestone County Historical Museum.
Many donated items have remained in storage due to lack of display space. The current location, although on a main street, has no visibility from the highway, has limited parking space and is not readily accessible to the majority of county residents.
With current activity by the Limestone County Historical Commission and the new interest in historical tourism development, the Board feels that the time is right to consider such a project, canvass local leaders for support and develop a plan of action.
Currently under consideration is a 5 – 6,000 sq. ft. building for displays, archive storage, educational and meeting areas, plus other facilities for the general public. Heating, air conditioning and climate control will be required to meet industry standards for preservation and security of the contents.
A front depicting that of the Stroud home that was built in 1855 is envisioned as the selected architecture to epitomize our early history.
The Stroud farm and lands played a significant role in Limestone County history and a portion is now occupied by Fort Parker State Park.
Elected officials, organization and financial leaders plus others interested in the history and the future of Limestone County will be asked to make recommendations for Building and Finance Committees composed of members from throughout Limestone County. A contact person will be named in the near future. Meanwhile feel free to express your interest and discuss the proposed project with members of the Museum Board.
Board members include: Lisa Alewine, Mark Alewine, Tom Hawkins, Dixie Hoover, Liz McDaniel, Teresa Penny, Cindy Pollard, William Reagan, Larry Smith, and Beth Westhoff.
