News
C. E. Richardson Foundation Supports Arnheim
The preservation of Arnheim, the ageing home of Dr. John B. Radford, is gaining momentum. Recently, the Radford Heritage Foundation (RHF) received a $5000 grant award from the Pulaski-based C. E. Richardson Foundation. The money will be used to stabilize the building, which has deteriorated significantly in the past decades.
Arnheim needs an urgent makeover.
"We are very grateful for this support. It will help us accomplish our goal to stabilize the structure by the end of next year,” said Hanns-Peter Nagel, Director of the Radford Heritage Foundation and Glencoe Museum.
The grant award by the C.E. Richardson Foundation completes a successful first year for the ongoing preservation effort of this Radford landmark led by the Radford Heritage Foundation and its Arnheim Committee.
In June 2007, the Foundation received a $35,000 Community Development Block Grant for roof repair and replacement, with work beginning in the very near future. In spring, Radford University archeologist Dr. Cliff Boyd will conduct an archeological assessment of the Arnheim property as part of a $10,000 matching grant by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Also as part of this grant, the Radford Heritage Foundation will create an informational wall exhibit and a website dedicated to the Arnheim preservation effort. These grants come on top of the donations made by Radford High School alumnis and other supporters.
The Radford Heritage Foundation is thankful for this support. In just one year, the preservation of Arnheim went from a distant dream to becoming reality. However, there is still a long way to go. The stabilization of the historic home and the inside restorations will require significant investments and road access to the building is still an open question. With all these challenges ahead, the Radford Heritage Foundation counts on the continued support from the community.
Arnheim is not only is the geographical but also the historical center of Radford. It is the home of the City’s namesake John Blair Radford and one of the oldest buildings in the City. When it has been restored, it will house a “Historical Research & Education Center”. This new facility will provide citizens, visitors, and students with an opportunity to research local and/or family history (genealogy). It will also provide office and meeting space for community groups and non-profit organizations.
More Information
- Read a Question & Answer sheet why Arnheim needs to preserved (.doc).
- Get more information on Arnheim's past.
