The Calico Rock Community Foundation recently purchased the historic Calico Rock Hardware Company building to expand the museum.
The new space, located next door to the museum, will nearly double the size of the museum and the Tomlinson Art Center. This will allow the museum to display all works in the collection and add sculptures and installations. The expansion will also add a discovery center and make the archives and research center more accessible.
Executive Director Gloria Sanders says they plan to begin construction in January. The expansion will also include a three-bedroom vacation rental property to generate income for the Foundation and sales tax revenue for the city.
Sanders says, “Earlier this summer, we added staff members that are bringing our historical exhibits and artworks to life for our guests with guided tours and projects. Having Denny Elrod and Brandie Soden on our team has increased interest in our museum and fueled our need to expand.”
The Windgate Foundation awarded the museum a significant grant for the purchase and renovations. Residents’ donations will be needed to finish the project.
Calico Rock Mayor Greg Hamby says, “The museum is very important to Calico Rock. It brings people to town, it welcomes them when they get here and it has helped the town grow over the last decade. This expansion is good for Calico Rock.”
For more information, visit www.calicorockmuseum.com or call 980-297-6100.
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