CHESTERTOWN — The Historical Society of Kent County’s headquarters will undergo what has been described as “significant renovation” beginning this month.
Rosin Creek Collaborative LLC, following plans developed in collaboration with structural engineer Jay Silcox, will reinforce the second floor of the Bordley History Center on the corner of Cross and High streets in downtown Chestertown.
The project will ensure the safety of the library and archival collections housed on the second floor of the building.
“These collections comprise a large and continually growing repository of documents and artifacts not found anywhere else,” according to a HSKC spokesperson.
The cumulative weight of the collections has exceeded what the existing upper-floor structure can reliably support.
The planned renovation will address this issue, allowing for the continued growth of the collections and on-site use by scholars, researchers and community members.
The renovation will take place during the Bordley Center’s traditional winter closure, with completion anticipated in time for a grand reopening in late March or early April.
Staff and volunteers will be able to continue working in the offices with little, if any, interruption.
A major construction project like this represents a significant financial investment for the Historical Society of Kent County, which is a tax-exempt nonprofit. The project will be funded through a combination of private donations and grant funding.
The public can support the effort with donations through the organization’s website, www.kentcountyhistory.org.
In a statement, HSKC Executive Director Maria Wood said, “This is an exciting project. It demonstrates a strong and long-lasting commitment to the community, and to remaining a resource for residents, visitors, and anyone interested in learning more about our shared history.”
The Historical Society of Kent County is dedicated to preserving, protecting and sharing the rich history of Kent County, Maryland through its museum, research library, exhibits and programs.
The public is invited to visit the Bordley History Center [301 High St., Chestertown], attend events and consider getting involved as a member or volunteer.
Membership benefits include unlimited use of the genealogy and research library (by appointment), a discount on books in the museum gift shop and invitations to members-only events.
A donation of $25 is recommended for individual memberships, and $40 for families. Student memberships are always free.
For more information, visit www.kentcountyhistory.org or email admin@kentcountyhistory.org.
