Virginia City, Nevada was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1961 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. As a contributing property, the building of St. Paul the Prospector has been recognized as possessing historical significance and architectural qualities that are vital to the district’s national importance.
Within these historic walls, the Western Missionary Museum will install a multi-cultural reconstruction of the contribution made by people of faith, who came west, braving the rugged terrains and extremes of weather, to make a new life for their families. We will demonstrate their role in making this godforsaken mining outpost into the bustling metropolis that it became. But after 140 years in the extreme weather of the Mountain West, this important building is at risk of being lost. To ensure the nation does not lose this jewel in the mountains, we will restore the building and ensure its preservation for future generations.
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
RESTORING A HISTORIC BUILDING IS A LABOR OF LOVE AND FAITH, which requires a considerable sum of money if it is to be done properly. Our foundations are strong and secure, but the building itself needs extensive restoration,n. Wooden walls exposed to almost a century and a half of sun, snow and wind are dried out, rotted away, and warped. They can barely support the window sets, which are at risk of falling (and sometimes do in high winds!). Roof beams are unstable, putting walls at risk. Heat and electrical systems are archaic and might set the tinder-dry building aflame. We must act now or lose this historic and beautiful building forever.
The budget for this project is $2.2 million. This sum will restore the entire building, install the museum, tearoom and gift shop, and establish a maintenance fund to avoid future deterioration.
In the spirit of diocesan unity and love for our mother church, we are asking every Episcopal congregation in the Diocese of Nevada to join us in supporting this important project to restore St. Pa ul’s, the first parish in our state. Your financial contribution whatever your parish can afford will demonstrate that the entire diocese is united in support of preserving St. Paul’s, for future generations, and will strengthen our requests to larger funders.
CONTACT DETAILS
We cannot delay. One more winter might be too late for St. Paul’s.
Please contact us TODAY using your preferred method:
Kate High, Project Co-Manager
775-772-1267 kate.high1@gmail.com
Or send your gift to:
The Western Missionary Museum
9480 S Eastern Ave # 236
Las Vegas, NV 89123