109 Years Later…

A New Foundation Beneath Our Building

Vashon Maury Island Heritage Association asked Ellisport Engineering to report on the 1907 stacked stone foundation under the museum building in October of 2014.  Based on their recommendations the museum board decided to replace the foundation.Fundraising for the project included grant writing, participation in Seattle Foundation's GiveBIG, requests for donations from museum members, Rebecca Wittman's campaign as "unofficial mayor" and other community donations.  A grant early on from 4Culture allowed us to contract with Ellisport Engineering for structural drawings.  Next, Dammann Design prepared site drawings and submitted the required permit documents to King County.  Trace Baron Construction, having completed the original remodel of the museum, was brought in as the project contractor.  Kathy's Corner began their landscaping involvement with the removal of plantings around the perimeter of the building.  We appreciate the work of these island businesses.Grant requests, all written by VMIHA Board President, Deb Dammann, were received from 4Culture, PSE Foundation, Sheep Meadow Foundation, Moccasin Lake Foundation, The Norcliffe Foundation, and one anonymous foundation.  We are grateful for the participation of all who have supported this important preservation project and helped us raise all needed funding.  Foundation replacement began August 1, 2016 with completion in mid to late November.VMIHA continues to plan for the future by insuring the longevity, safety and good performance of the 109 year old church building that houses a large portion of the museum's exhibit space.