For 35 years, the Brickyard School at the Merrill Festival Grounds has been introducing schoolchildren and fairgoers to the American institution of the one-room schoolhouse. Now, at the age of 111, the Brickyard School is in need of a new roof, soffits and fascia boards in order to continue the job of educating the generations to come. The repairs are crucial to prevent deterioration of the building and damage to the artifacts that the Merrill
Historical Society, the Fair Association and the the Lincoln County Retired Educators have collected over the years.
The Education Committee of the Merrill Historical Society is announcing a flash fund drive to acquire the materials and labor needed for the project, entitled “Raise the Roof at Brickyard!” Its kickoff will be during the 2016 Lincoln County Fair, when visitors to the school will have the opportunity to contribute to the drive by “buying a shingle” for just $2. A full bundle of shingles may be purchased for $30. Contributions will also be accepted
at the Merrill Historical Society, 100 East 3rd Street. Office hours are Tuesday – Friday from 9 to 1.
In addition to the fundraising during the fair, alternative ways in which the repair work itself can be accomplished are being investigated.
Donations in kind and volunteer labor from experienced professionals are both possible ways in which the schoolhouse can be preserved and maintained.
Those interested in offering goods, services or ideas should contact the Merrill Historical Society, 715-536-5652.