Historical Society Completes First “Work Bee” at Kingsley-Jenter Home

Laurie Carey cleaning blinds at the Manchester Area Historical Society's first clean-up "work bee" at their newly purchased Kingsley-Jenter Home. Photo courtesy of the Manchester Area Historical Society

The Manchester Area Historical Society held its first cleanup “work bee” on Saturday, January 23 at its newly-purchased Kingsley-Jenter Home, located at 302 E. Main on the downtown, “four corners” intersection. The Society completed this purchase in December, and is working to repurpose the former funeral home into its new museum, archives and research center, and historical society and community meeting space.

Sixteen Society members and volunteers from the community helped with attic cleanout, cleaning and renovating the upper level apartment for eventual rental, and outside yard tasks. The day’s efforts were all part of the Historical Society's “Preserve the Corner” campaign, to raise funds and labor from community members, local organizations and businesses, and other sources. The Historical Society deeply appreciates those members and guests who came to help them with the work!

The Society is planning a second “work bee” day for Saturday, February 27, 9am to noon, to continue cleanup and renovation on the lower level hall and other public spaces to be used for meetings and functions. They invite anyone interested to offer your help in any way, as they work to get their new home ready for several events beginning in March. Please also see their “Preserve the Corner” campaign information on their website HERE.

To sign up for the February 27 work day, or for further information, contact Ray Berg at rayberg@att.net or 734-428-7705.

The Manchester Area Historical Society Kingsley -Jenter Home. Photo courtesy of the Manchester Area Historical Society

Barb Fuller washing walls. Photo courtesy of the Manchester Area Historical Society

Betty Cummings, the refrigerator cleaner. Photo courtesy of the Manchester Area Historical Society

Reno and Nancy Feldkamp and Rosemary Whelan work the living room. Photo courtesy of the Manchester Area Historical Society

Sharon Curtis cleans the banister. Photo courtesy of the Manchester Area Historical Society.

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by Ray Berg