People from around the world visit the Polk County History Center to learn about everything from the citrus industry and the county’s role in World War I to the phosphate mining industry.
- Crumbling plaster prompts restoration plans
- Thousands visit the Polk County History Center each month
- Work is expected to begin in March
Lately, the county has been working to keep the historic building intact.
The center’s striking neoclassical architecture is also a main attraction. It was the county’s third courthouse.
“It’s a treasure and not only a statement to our political process but also our heritage and our culture in the county,” historic preservation manager Myrtice Young said.
Young said the museum averages more than 3,500 visitors a month.
Bernard Maloney, from Rochester, New York, stopped in on Saturday.
“It’s the first time I’ve been to this museum so I’m just trying to absorb all I can,” Maloney said.
With the building being so prominent, Young said it was difficult watching the plaster on the interior walls start to crumble.
“Devastating certainly to us because we consider it one of the most important parts of the history center. The story is the building. The beautiful architecture,” Young said.
The building was built in 1908. Over the years, she said water seeped into the exterior stone and brick.
“As moisture whips in behind here, we get this bubbling effect. And it dries and you can see it just crumbles off the wall,” Young said, describing the plaster on the interior walls.
Polk County already spent $330,000 to fix the exterior, according to Young. Now, the center will use a $100,000 state matching grant it received to repair the interior walls.
“The grant was essential. It was so exciting that we’re able to continue and complete this process of restoration,” Young said.
Contractors are still going through the bidding process. Bids are due Feb. 28.
Young expects the work to begin in March. It’s a six-month long project.
While some exhibits may be off limits, Young said the museum will remain open during that time.