The museum building, which was purchased in July 2010, needed extensive repairs to make it functional as well as up-to-date. Since 2010, the museum has installed a new roof, new heating and cooling system, new electrical system and new windows in the front of the building.
During the recent renovations, the entire building has been restored and remodeled, which was built in 1903 by E.N. Rand as a warehouse for railroad freight and a store.
The renovation project includes the transformation of the basement into a board room, storage and archival space and exhibit gallery. Keeping in view of historical importance of the building, the rustic, industrial elements of the former warehouse has been preserved with modern touches and conveniences.
A new garden bridge has been added to the landscape behind the Visitor Center leading to the Coal House. Touch-ups and general improvements around the facility are also included in the renovation project.
The renovation has also preserved an inscription on a stair stringer which reads, “March 19, 1903. Calico Rock. Cold day. 3 inches snow.”
