Donation aids restoration of piece of local history
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BURLINGTON - The Ward County Historical Society's Pioneer Village Museum in Burlington recently received a $10,000 donation from the Magic City Lions Club, the historical society announced. The gift will help restore an antique carousel that once operated in a Minot park.
The Lions Club’s $10,000 contribution to the Pioneer Village carousel project fits within its local youth initiative and is one of many charitable projects funded through the gaming sites the club operates. The Magic City Lions recently celebrated giving a million dollars to the communities it serves.
The historical society stated its hope is to have the carousel functional by next fall, depending on volunteer help and cash donations for materials. A building also will need to be funded and erected soon afterward to protect the carousel from further deterioration.
The public can help in the following ways:
- Sponsor and name a carousel horse for a $5,000 donation.
- Place a name on a bench inside the building for a $2,500 donation.
- Receive recognition on the outside of the building, $50,000 for a plaque.
- Fund the building in its entirety, with the donor, company or family name displayed above the doors.
- Give any amount of volunteer time. Even a dollar or a few hours spent cleaning and painting parts will help the project move forward.
The historical society also welcomes new members. Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month at 6:45 p.m., and everyone is welcome to attend. The museum's summer hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and noon-5 p.m. on Sunday.
Group tours may be available after hours with advance notice by phone. Pioneer Village also has buildings available to rent, including houses, a church and an event center, for a variety of uses.
Beginning Jan. 1, the historical society will charge $5 admission per person for guests ages 6 and older. Some exemptions may apply, including school tours and other groups. Admission also is available with annual and lifetime memberships, with special membership rates for military, students and seniors.
The historical society hosts two major events each year: Old Settlers Weekend in June and a vehicle show in August. Both events include a variety of activities.