Clean-up continues

The Friends of Martell Schoolhouse continued their preservation of the historic building Thursday with clean-up of the interior and exterior of the building. According to committee chair Deanie Pass, long-term plans for the building are unknown, as possible ideas have included a place for family reunions, a community center for the town, an exhibition space for local artists or, due to its proximity to the Rush River, a building emphasizing fly fishing. “It’s one of the rare schoolhouses that haven’t been made into a home,” she said. “With all its history, it would have been a shame if we lost a building like this.” The Friends are presently operating the building on a 10-year lease from the Town of Martell. Therefore, due to limited staffing, the building will only be open during the summer. Pictured are Friends members in the front row (left to right): Pat Wiff, Pat Klaas and Julie Kenefick. In the back row are Deanie Pass, Jack Kenefick, Frank Pass, Diane Erickson and Tom Meyer.