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The effort to restore Grantsville's Stump Hotel and adjacent property into a history
center met financial obstacles last week.
After three and one-half years, bids were received on the project, with the lowest
bid $122,000 over the amount remaining for the restoration.
The Society has $125,000 left for the restoration, which poses a problem with all
bidders coming in high. Allegheny Restoration of Morgantown bid $407,750; City
Window of Clarksburg bid $358,425 and the low bid, Olentangy Restoration of
Marion, Ohio at $247,000.
The Calhoun Historical Society originally received a $208,000 grant through U. S.
Congressman Alan Mollohan, whose father was a native of Calhoun County. The
money was designated "to establish a permanent home for the historical objects and documents it has
collected."
The plan has been to develop a family history center.
The hotel and adjacent lot between Main and Mill Street was donated by Dr. Charles Albert Stump of Daytona, Florida,
son of the late Albert and Gladys Weaver Stump of Grantsville. The Society decided to purchase an adjacent building
belonging to Dr. Stump, the former State Farm or Quality Shop structure, for $46,500.
Other expenses prior to restoration included $1,400 to Wilson Appraisal Service, $7,860 to re-roof the State Farm/Quality
Shop building and $623 to record a deed.
The Vandalia Society has been managing the project for the Society, according to President Bob Bonar. The local Society
hired SEM Architectural of Beckley to develop plans for the restoration, including the adjacent building. The firm charged
$26,641 for their work, with $125,000 left to complete the project. It was unclear why architectural plans did not consider
the limited funds available.
Bonar said the local Society was talking with the architect about what steps to take. He said it would be helpful if more
funding could be secured to complete the project.
Meanwhile, the Stump Hotel continues to deteriorate, since some original roofing and siding was removed some time ago.
STUMP HOTEL RIBBON CUTTING - June 6, 2001
Two of the oldest members of the Calhoun Historical Society, Carl Morris and
Evelyn Campbell cut the ribbon last night commencing the restoration of the
1880's vintage Stump Hotel. Morris, Calhoun's History Hero for 2000, said the
project was in "memory of a great lady" Gladys Weaver Stump, the property
being donated by her son and daughter-in-law, Dr. and Mrs. Charles Albert
Stump.
Evelyn Campbell and Carl Morris cut the ribbon
President Bob Bonar welcomes guests
Society President Bob Bonar told the audience some history of the
establishment, and introduced retired Calhoun teacher and historian Don
McCartney. McCartney told stories of the boom days along the Little
Kanawha and spoke of simple things that brought "pleasure" to people 100
years ago, quoting a Louise McNeil poem. He also sang a celtic-like song for
the audience.
Well-known retired teacher and historian Don McCartney talks about
"pleasures."
Locals stop for ribbon cutting ceremony
Harry Beall and Stephanie Curry "Finding Home."
Historical society member Harry Beall and singer Stephanie Curry sang a
lyrical tune about "Finding Home." Society members and guests were invited
to the adjacent building for snacks and drinks to conclude the evening.
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