Putney Historical Society

On March 20, 2009, Governor Jim Douglas came to present PHS and the Town of Putney with a check for over 200K from the Vermont Community Development program, for the stabilization of the Putney General Store.  The event was well attended, and numerous media reps were there as well.  Our thanks go to so many who helped us manage this accomplishment.

On Friday, March 20, Governor Douglas is expected to present the Putney Historical Society with a grant of about $200,000 from the Vermont Community Development Program to pay for the stabilization of the general store building.  The project, budgeted for $225K, will restore the structure, pay for the truss roof and slate shingles, in addition to many of the soft costs involved in assessment, appraisal, management, and contracting.

Needless to say, we are thrilled and honored by the state’s generosity, and we are convinced that a revitalized general store will help to draw people into the heart of our community.  We will now be able to own the building, create a much-needed home for PHS, and lease to a store operator.  Our thanks go out to all in the community who have helped us on our way.

The second truss is lowered onto the roof.

People of Putney, congratulations!  The frame is up, and soon a roof on the General Store.  Thanks to all of you for your support!

If you have any serious interest in running the new Putney General Store, take a look at the new request for proposals posted at www.putneygeneralstore.org.  Spread the word!  We would like initial proposals by February 10.

In 2002 the Historical Society received the Thwing Mill as a gift from Greg Wilson. Last operated by Charlie and Mary Thwing for 58 years, the mill closed shortly before Charlie’s death in 1946.

We continue to hold great hope for the mill’s potential to enhance our mission of education, preservation, and fostering respect for the town’s history. Now that the gift has been accepted, we remain in the second phase of project development–engaging prospective supporters in preparing a plan for use that can be phased in as funds allow.

If you are interested in participating with the further development of a plan or simply supporting the project, please contact Lyssa Papazian.