Members get look at layout of Hiwassee Heritage Center

photo An open vault reminds members of the Charleston/Caloun/Hiwassee Historical Society that the future Hiwassee Heritage Center was once a bank building. Architect Tom Crye, with help from Melissa Woody of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce, shows members the floor plans for the change.

CHARLESTON, Tenn. - Historical society members got a first look Sunday at floor plans that will transform a former bank building into the Hiwassee Heritage Center.

"You are sitting in Phase One,'' architect Tom Crye told members of the Charleston/Calhoun/Hiwassee Historical Society.

The building will need plenty of elbow grease along with some donated funds, society President Faye Callaway said. Applications for grants are still uncertain.

The first volunteer work day is March 31, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Help will be needed to rip out carpeting and tile, apply spackle and other work. Volunteers can contact Darlene Goins at goinsdarlene@bellsouth.net or just show up to work.

The space will serve as an area welcome center and a Charleston City Commission meeting room. The cost for Phase One is estimated at $40,000, but that will shrink with volunteer work and donations, Crye said.

The City Commission, which will use folding chairs during its meetings, is already supporting the heritage center by paying the monthly utility bill.

A handicapped-accessible rest room is one of the first priorities, said Crye, who donated his architectural work.

Supporters hope Phase One is ready by August, said Melissa Woody of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce.

"Students from Lee University and Cleveland State [Community College] will staff the center as part of their community service,'' she said. "Students are back in August.''

Phase Two will enclose the current drive-through space, creating an exhibit area. A third phase would create a permanent meeting room.

The society still owes $7,000 for a no-interest loan from the Chamber of Commerce to close the gap between contributions and the price of the building.

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