Fluvanna, NY – The Fluvanna Community Historical Society (FCHS) has embarked on its largest project of the year: a comprehensive renovation of the Meeting House bathrooms and a total refurbishment of the basement. This transformative initiative aims to enhance the accessibility and functionality of the historic building, setting the groundwork for this space to once again serve as a vibrant hub and remain an icon for the community.
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Modernizing the Meeting House Bathrooms
The first phase of the project focuses on modernizing the Meeting House bathrooms. These facilities, which have served thousands of community members, parishioners, teens and visitors, for decades, are being completely renovated to meet contemporary standards. The new restrooms will be bright, clean and fully accessible, catering to community members and visitors whether they are attending a historical lecture, a community event or exploring the exhibits.
At the beginning of this year, the FCHS board members endorsed one of the two beautiful bathroom renovation design concepts drawn-up by Yaesol Lee, a committed trustee of the Historical Society who graciously offered her expertise and time. The updated design includes light green walls, white tiles, a wall-mounted sink paired with a wooden vanity and a patterned terrazzo floor, resulting in a contemporary and inviting environment.
Redesigning the Meeting House Basement
In addition to the bathroom renovations, the basement of the Meeting House is undergoing a significant transformation. Once an underutilized space, the basement will soon become a versatile area for in-person and hybrid meetings, workshops and cultural events. The redesign aims to create a collaborative environment that fosters creativity and connection.
Support and Progress
This ambitious project has been made possible, in part, by a General Grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and the generosity of FCHS donors. Significant progress has already been made:
All necessary materials, including fixtures, have been purchased.
The bathrooms have been gutted to the studs with all the old fixtures, toilets, sinks, ceilings, walls and flooring removed.
The entire basement carpeting has been removed.
Floor preparation for new flooring is underway and expected to be completed by mid-July.
The commercial-sized grill has been donated to another non-profit organization.
Call for Volunteers
FCHS is calling on volunteers to assist with the remaining demolition work in the basement. Tasks include:
Removing drywall to the studs, including in the stairways
Demolishing the basement ceiling and kitchen
Scrapping remaining kitchen appliances
Removing tables and chairs
Cleaning and disinfecting the basement
Following the demolition, work will begin on fixing the drainage for the sinks, installing dehumidifiers and air purifiers and constructing the new bathrooms.
For a list of all current jobs available for volunteers, click here.
Community members are encouraged to sign up to volunteer for specific tasks by clicking the following button and filling out the Basement Demolition Volunteer Sign-Up Form (or contacting FCHS directly) indicating their availability for specific dates and the tasks they can assist with:
Looking Ahead
These projects have been prioritized for 2024 to ensure the Meeting House can open its doors to all. The renovations are not just about improving the physical space but also about expanding the possibilities for community engagement. FCHS plans to welcome the public every day of the week, providing a space for local history enthusiasts, tourists, community members, students and families. As such, these projects represent a significant step forward for the Fluvanna Community Historical Society and the community as a whole.
For the latest information information, visit our website at FluvannaHistory.com or contact us at:
Fluvanna Community Historical Society
Phone: +1 (716) 804.7163
Address: 3502 Fluvanna Ave. Ext., Fluvanna, NY 14701
Or follow FCHS on social media for updates and more ways to get involved!
The Fluvanna Community Historical Society is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, provisionally chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York, and dedicated to connecting our community with our past, with each other and with a brighter future.
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