From the Invitation to the Brown County History Center Dedication

On Sunday, April 26, 2015

When visitors enter the new History Center, the first question is, “Where did all of this come from?” For the Gnaw Bone Cabin, the answer is, “right here in Brown County – local materials and local workmen.” A log cabin from Freeman Ridge was donated by the Nature Conservancy, dismantled and reconstructed within the new building by Darin Kean, Jim McGrayel and crew. Wide poplar boards for shelves and trim came from the Deadfall School, barn wood trim from the 1887 Mary Thompson barn on Valley Branch Road, and fireplace stone from a cellar house on the William Barnes homestead on Owl Creek. Additional stone came from a fireplace at the Eudora Kelley house on West Main Street. The expert craftsmen of Paul Bay and Sons Masonry installed the stone for the building.

The dedication will celebrate all of the workmen who skillfully constructed a new Nashville landmark and thank hundreds of donors. A special presentation of the Grover Brown Award for outstanding contribution to Brown County history and unveiling of a 5’x7′ colorful leaded glass quilt, engraved with donor names, will highlight the event. Opening exhibits at the History Center include “Wash Day” in the Gnaw Bone Cabin, and Art Alliance show in the Zimmerman Room, and works of art donated to the permanent collection in the Howard Hughes Art and Exhibit Hall. After the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to tour the galleries and enjoy a reception in the Grand Hall.