Many thanks to our indefatigable Buildings & Grounds curator Dave Diamond, who sends along the following photos as a Hicks Car Works exclusive!
"These are the exciting new signs and murals installed late today on the now legal to occupy MPB! All signs and murals were funded through B&G donor restricted and MRHA funds. Enjoy!"
Obviously it's very exciting to all of us to see the MPB now approved for occupancy. The decorative touches on the building are really impressive.
Very classy, right down to the lettering on the doors.
And I guess we know where we'll find Andy when he's not busy with something else...
And inside the building, yet more impressive artwork and displays are going up:
You can't go wrong with a big picture of the American Flyer plant!
I'm sure I'm not the only one who can't wait to see this all in person. The building is a huge step forward in the development of Main Street and the overall development of the visitor experience at IRM. Kudos and THANKS to Dave and everyone who has worked so hard to make this building happen!
7 comments:
What is the post office part of the building going to be used for?
There's a building floor plan at https://hickscarworks.blogspot.com/2019/06/up-with-people.html and though there may have been some minor changes, I think the actual building hews pretty closely to this plan. The "post office" entrance looks like it goes into the gallery space, with the Model Railroad Exhibit to the west and the Milwaukee Road archives/museum section to the east.
The Post Office section of the building is in reality the Museum Gallery which will feature permanent and revolving displays. The Main Street Development Committee reviewed concepts for the storefronts and with the incorporation of the "limestone" shield embedded in the facade, an official or civic building look unfolded. A historic "red top" mailbox will be placed in front of the space thus creating a visual identity to direct visitors to the "Post Office" for more info about the museum and its collection. The space will also serve as a centralized space to gather small groups and begin their IRM experience until such time the Main Street Entrance building is constructed.
DD
Thank You for the response! Its so exciting to see the way the museum is growing and how the main street project is coming to fruition. Cant wait to see the gallery the next time I'm out.
I remember the Museum had taken possession of an old Gas Station from Kentucky back when. Where would that be placed on Main Street? are there any antique pumps for it? And how long before we see the new trolley line connect to Maine Street?
The Sunoco gas pumps have been restored and are awaiting installation! Last year we installed the cantilevered sign pole and mast arm at the corner where it will be located- east of the Schroeder Store. We ahev some plans of beginning station restoration soon, if there are volunteers interested in helping out, please contact B&G. Thanks much!
DD
Impressive!
Time for the Sign of Hiawatha
Chicago (touch forehead)
Milwaukee (touch heart)
St. Paul (touch left shoulder)
and Pacific (touch right shoulder)
Kevin Brown
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