Church Mutual Insurance Company has donated $100,000 toward the completion of the Merrill Historical Society’s current “The Time Has Come” capital campaign.
This is the second campaign of the $1.25-million project to complete the Merrill History & Culture Center, a 4,500-square foot museum that will be connected to the Heritage Center (the existing former Bethlehem Lutheran Church).
“To our knowledge, Church Mutual at 116 years of age is the longest continuous business operation in Merrill,” Church Mutual President and CEO Mike Ravn said. “Because of our company’s success in the community over time, we are proud to step up as a corporate citizen in helping to preserve Merrill’s history and culture.”
The new Center will include historical exhibits, community arts and cultural events, and research materials for genealogical and local history research.
Plans are for a 650-square foot exhibit hall with floor-grid and display panels, renovation and remodeling of the Heritage Wing and a permanent home for The Pinery, an exhibit that evokes the legacy of the early timber and wood products era which continues in Merrill today.
“It is wonderful to see the support we’ve gotten from the community and longtime businesses like Church Mutual,” Historical Society President Bea Lebal said. “Their generous contribution will help ensure that the rich history of our community is preserved and on display in this beautiful facility for future generations.”
The center is slated to open in limited operation in late April.
The Merrill Historical Society was formed in 1978 to systematically preserve history and artifacts of Merrill’s heritage and culture. In 2008, the Society received the former Bethlehem Lutheran Church building to convert into a modern museum.
Persons or businesses interested in contributing to “The Time Has Come” campaign can contact the Historical Society office at 715-536-5652 or visit its website at www.merrillhistoricalsoc.com.