Historical Society gets a facelift - inside and out

Chris Vera's passion for Columbia's history was clearly evident during the recent renovation project at the Columbia Historic Preservation Society building. Vera is president of the society.

In addition to orchestrating several major projects, Vera could be found painting and using elbow grease to help complete them.

The building fundraising campaign began early last year with  several contributors, among them Cimmaron Properties, Gamby's Disposal, The Foresters, The Elk's Club, The Catholic War Vets, Owls Club, The American Legion, Grace EC Church, and the estate of Pauline Aston.

A much-needed and long-awaited new roof was installed by Abel & Son Roofing. Downspouts and gutters were replaced by a subcontractor.  Vera did much of the interior painting. He said he is very pleased with the roofing project, calling it professional work with superb results.

The Society reopens April 22, 1-4 p.m. and will be open every Saturday and Sunday until January. This year's exhibits will feature the Civil War, Columbia Hospital, and Columbia Opera House.

Fresh paint on interior walls and trim

A new look all around

Updated lighting

And outside . . .

A new roof

Here's a closer look.

Spouting was replaced.