While small repair projects are always underway on the historic buildings surrounding the Pope County Museum, this year will see some big repair projects completed. The Historical Society board of directors has hired local general contractor, Stryhn LLC, to manage work on six museum structures this summer. 

The group of historic buildings which stand behind the museum help tell the recent story of Pope County settlement, education, faith and recreation.

The Torguson Family log cabin represents the skills of immigrants to build shelter from the cold and raise a family. It was built on the Torguson farm along Memorial Drive.

The 1894 District 33 School is an example of the nearly 100 one-room schools located throughout Pope County. The Pleasant Hills School District served Minnewaska Township students from 1870 to 1958 when it consolidated with Glenwood District 612.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is nearly unchanged from its original construction in 1893! Services are still held each year in September. St. Paul’s Church shows the importance of faith and a place to gather before (and after!) telephone, radio and social media. It was built on Franklin Avenue N. downtown, and moved to First Street NE before coming to the Museum grounds.

The Holland Lake Cabin represents development of our major resource, lakes, as places to relax, cool off, and enjoy summertime. It also represents the resort industry which helps support our community economically. It was built in 1922 on South Lakeshore Drive by the Perrior family.

The funds for this $175,000 project are 86% in hand. Your contributions will help achieve the full funding goal. Stop by the Pope County Museum with a contribution and to watch the progress of the Stryhn restoration team. Together we make history shine!