The Richland Springs Preservation Society held its regular meeting Tuesday evening, April 15th.
Franky Soto Sr. reported that work on the roof is complete. The next item to be done is electrical work where it is needed. This includes encasing existing wiring in conduit, adding electrical outlets in the space that used to be the barber shop, and adding additional lighting. Franky will also repair the door to the barber shop.
In addition to the many generous donations received at the last luncheon, checks from eight generous donors have come in the mail for a total of $2,365.
Dee Crump presented an updated Mission Statement for the Society. After discussion, it was voted on and adopted.
“The goals and mission of the Richland Springs Preservation Society are to preserve our community heritage, promote pride in our community, and lead the preservation and restoration of the 1910 J. L. Burleson Bank Building.
The immediate goals for the building are to restore it and completing repairs as needed so that the building will be usable for future generations.
Long-term plans for the building include a museum in the former bank lobby, a community room downstairs where local artisans can display and sell their merchandise and have craft classes, rent out the remaining retail spaces, and rent out office space upstairs.
To achieve these goals, the Society has applied for several grants and regularly hosts fundraising events.
The 1910 Bank building was designated as a Historical Site in 1998, and in 2001 it was named a Texas Historic Landmark. The Richland Springs Preservation Society is a 501C3 nonprofit organization. Donations of any amount are tax deductible. Checks to the Preservation Society may be mailed to P. O. Box 153, Richland Springs TX 76871.”
The next potluck fundraiser will be May 18th in the Richland Springs Community Center. Everyone is invited to come visit and enjoy lunch. Serving will begin approximately noon, when the local churches let out.
The next meeting of the Preservation Society will be the third Tuesday of May, the 20th, at 6 p.m. in the RS Community Center. Everyone is invited to come. Anyone who does not receive the quarterly newsletter and would like to, send either your email address or your mailing address to rsps.communications@gmail.com.