Constructed as a County Office Building in 1842, the building located at 516 Fourth Street originally sat on the public square as an annex to one of the earlier courthouses. The building was moved in 1857 when plans for a new courthouse were prepared. Purchased by the Mayer Family in 1901, it remained in the family for the next 100 years at which point it was donated to the Fountain County Art Council, Inc. This community-based organization converted the building into a historical museum associated with notable individuals from Fountain County’s heritage. The small organization is utilized grant money and other public funding sources to complete this project.

 

Jacobs Pannicke Architects, Inc. now known as ARCHitecture trio, inc. provided the client with a complete rehabilitation design package.  The first step consisted of a thorough investigation of the existing building in order to document and evaluate the building’s historic character. A close working relationship with the client was established in the Schematic Design phase to ensure that the project not only met the budget of this small organization, but their expectations as well. The project was divided into a phased construction plan in order to allow the local group fundraising opportunities. Construction Documents and Construction Administration were included in the project scope.

 

The new museum building contains all new Mechanical and Electrical systems that are carefully integrated within the historic fabric. The building was renovated in conformance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards & Guidelines for the Treatment of Historic Properties. 

 

This project was carried out under ARCHitecture trio's former company name Jacobs Pannicke Architects, Inc.

Square Feet:  1,890

Construction Completion:  Phase 1 - Spring 2004

Construction Cost:  Phase 1 - $ 110,000