‘Friends’ offer help in maintaining mill

By Bob Williams | The Daily Journal

Published Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Friends of Phelps Mill Committee Member Rich Osman and Historical Society Executive Director Chris Schuelke appeared before the County Commissioners Tuesday to present an informal annual report of the activities of the Friends of Phelps Mill. The Friends of Phelps Mill, through the auspices of the Otter Tail County Historical Society, are offering to assist the county to ensure the mill is properly preserved.

“Phelps Mill is a 119-year old wood frame structure that receives thousands of visitors annually,” Schuelke said. “It is not, however, indestructible. It requires constant maintenance and restoration.”

In 2007, the Friends sponsored two fundraising events to assist in the purchase of a fire/security system. Called “Echoes of Phelps Mill,” the events featured vignettes of historical characters associated with Phelps Mill. There was one performance at Barnard School and another at the Royal Auditorium in Battle Lake. With a grant from the Lake Region Arts Council, the performances raised over $4,000.

The main goals for 2008 are:

n Have the county to approve and install a fire/security system. The mill is open 12 hours a day, seven days a week, six months of the year. Except for daily inspections by the park caretaker, the mill is essentially unattended and vulnerable. A security system would not prevent a fire but would expedite emergency response.

n Complete restoration projects such as siding and painting.

Schuelke mentioned Phelps Mill would be eligible for a State Capital Projects Grant administered by the Minnesota Historical Society. This program is intended for restoration projects on government owned historic buildings. Phelps Mill fits that criteria. Schuelke will be writing the grant proposal.