By Heather Hagedorn
Museum Executive Director
On August 15, the Geary County Historical Society Museum experienced a catastrophic elevator failure that required assistance from the local fire department. While major building damage was prevented, this failure has left the Museum facing a significant and unexpected challenge: the modernization and replacement of major components of the elevator system.
The elevator is an essential part of making the Museum accessible to everyone. Visitors of all ages and abilities rely on the elevator to access the Museum’s exhibits, collections, programs, and events throughout the building.
The proposed elevator modernization will involve replacing major components of the existing system, including controller, motor, and hydraulic equipment, wiring, operating fixtures, door equipment, and other hoist way and safety components. The project will also incorporate updated accessibility features and emergency and firefighter safety equipment. Additional building-related work may also be necessary to meet current code and safety requirements, including electrical, fire protection, ventilation, structural, and other improvements.
The Historical Society is working with experienced contractors to gather estimates for this project, but current estimated costs of the elevator modernization and related work is $150,000-$200,000.
The project will also take time. Initial work to the mechanical room is required before modernization can take place. Then engineering and material procurement are expected to take several weeks, followed by several weeks of installation once the necessary equipment is available. At this time, an exact start or completion date cannot be established. In the meantime, the Geary County Historical Society asks for patience as accessibility in the three-story museum building will be limited to stair access until work can be completed.
There are several ways individuals, families, businesses, and organizations can help:
- Make a donation toward the elevator project.
- Become a member of the Geary County Historical Society.
- Support upcoming fundraisers and Museum programs.
- Consider a business sponsorship to help support the project.
- Share the GCHS story with friends, family, businesses, and community organizations.