Allegheny Restoration is restoring 16 windows on the west facade of the historic Kump House on South Randolph Avenue, across from Kroger. The window project is the next step in the development process for the Kump Education Center.
Kump Center is under the watchful eyes of state historic architect Michael Mills. He created The Historic Structures Report and Reuse Plan in 2009, and he has given careful attention to the building codes and legal guidelines at every stage in the process. The asbestos roof was properly removed and replaced in 2010, and masonry was restored in 2011. Now Mills Group is making every effort to ensure the safety of the window project.
Although the house belongs to the city of Elkins, Kump Center restoration work has been paid for by historic preservation grants matched entirely with donations from private citizens. The mayor and City Council have visited the house to check on the progress at different times during the renovation process, and the Municipal Property Committee has had regular monthly reports on the project for the last three and a half years.
Kump Center is supported by a large number of local volunteers engaged in a variety of activities. The volunteers formed the Kump Education Center as a 501 (c) 3 organization for the preservation of the house and to develop educational programs.
Currently the Kump Education Center collaborates with local professional development schools supported by the Randolph County Board of Education. A Community Garden run by Davis & Elkins College Sustainability Studies students is in its third year on the Kump property. The public will have an opportunity to enjoy family fun on the historic Kump farm at the New Deal at the Crossroads on Sept. 1.
