VISION HISTORIC PRESERVATION FOUNDATION RECEIVES FUNDING FOR PHASE ONE WINDOWS & DOORS
Funded via City of Rockdale Hotel Occupancy Tax Historic Preservation Grant
ROCKDALE, TX, SEPTEMBER 2, 2022 – Vision Historic Preservation Foundation (Vision Rockdale) is excited to announce it will begin Phase One construction of the restoration of The 1895 in September 2022. Phase One encompasses restoring the South Façade of the building to its original Arthur O. Watson Victorian Romanesque Revival architectural design. This phase includes rebuilding the iconic bell tower and cupolas, restoring the south 20% of the roof, removing the stucco & rebricking the façade, and replacing the windows & doors with historically-accurate, energy-efficient reproductions.
Vision Rockdale has commissioned Austin Historical to manufacture the windows and doors, which will be delivered in two phases. In late-September the first ten windows needed for the bell tower observation deck will be delivered. The remaining 24 windows and doors will ship in December for installation in early 2023. Austin Historical specializes in historic reproductions and will custom build the windows and doors per the architectural specifications provided by the Foundation’s architect, Architexas, which are based on turn of the century photographs of The 1895. “We are proud to play a part in assisting Vision Rockdale to restore this once beautiful building,” stated Doug Romaine, Austin Historical Preservation Advisor. “With the Foundation’s goal to pursue a historical designation – these historically-accurate wood windows with stunning profiles, original sash pulleys, and authentic oil-rubbed hardware are all key components to being eligible for future designation.”
Upon seeing the restoration designs and hearing plans to launch Phase One construction were underway, the City of Rockdale invited Vision Historic Preservation Foundation to submit a Historic Preservation Grant request for the Council to consider. “Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funds are collected by hoteliers from room night bookings and Historic Preservation is one of the nine tourism-related categories under which cities are permitted by the State to use HOT funds,” explained City Manager Barbara Holly. “The Foundation’s project to restore The 1895 is a major step to revitalizing downtown and encompasses many positive features that will benefit the community and enhance the City’s goal of becoming a tourism destination.” On August 22nd, City Council approved funding the $110,670 cost to construct the Phase One windows and doors. The Foundation is pursuing donations and grants to fund the installation of the windows and doors and Phase One construction which is estimated to total $1,250,000.
In January 2022, the Foundation was awarded a $5,000 grant from the Texas Historical Foundation which will contribute toward the bell tower reconstruction. In February 2022, the Milam County Historical Commission contributed a $5,000 grant which will contribute to restoring the original decorative trim around the south doors. “The Foundation is continuing to seek grants and donations to fund this worthwhile restoration project,” expressed Curah Beard, Executive Director. “We currently have eight active grant applications and have identified at least four for which to apply before the end of the year – but this show of the City’s support, as well as individual and business donations, exponentially strengthens our applications in the eyes of grant makers.”
An in-kind donation of construction fencing by BVR, will go up on the lots to the east of The 1895 in mid-September. The Foundation will use the east lots to store materials & equipment and to construct the bell tower. “We are excited to move forward with the first phase of construction,” stated Collier Perry, Board Chairman. “The Foundation’s goal to restore The 1895 and transform it into an arts & entertainment center will make this historic building an exciting asset to the community – and the restored bell tower will be a beacon drawing people to downtown.”
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To learn more about The 1895 project and contribute to Vision Historic Preservation Foundation’s fundraising campaign visit www.VisionRockdale.org.
The mission of Vision Historic Preservation Foundation is to enrich the arts & cultivate economic development by restoring the historic 1895 City Hall for the citizens, businesses, and visitors of Rockdale.
Our Vision is to act as a catalyst in the revitalization of Downtown Rockdale by:
* Preserving the historical significance of The 1895.
* Creating new purpose and attracting businesses to the Development.
* Inspiring a culture of art, commerce and tourism for residents and visitors.
* Enhancing the success of all area businesses and enriching the lives of our citizens.
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For more information about Vision Historic Preservation Foundation’s 1895 City Hall project or schedule a tour, please call Curah Beard at 512-496-3962, or email cbeard@visionhistoricpreservationfoundation.org
