Plymouth Historical Society Receives $28K Grant

PLYMOUTH, MI — The Plymouth Historical Society has received a $28,000 grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation that will support the restoration of the CSX caboose received in 2019, according to a news release issued by the historical society Monday.

The project is funded by the grant includes several aspects of restoration, including the exterior and interior elements of the caboose. An electrician will complete work of the porches on each end of the caboose to ensure a well-lit stairwell and doorways for the safety of those visiting.

The addition of security cameras also will be funded by the grant, as well as additional weatherproofing runners.

“We are so grateful to the Margaret Dunning Foundation for the support of our caboose project, as well as all of the support it has provided the Museum through the years,” Plymouth Historical Society Executive Director Liz Kerstens said in a statement. "We are hoping to be able to open the caboose to the public by this summer, depending on the progress of COVID-19 and the vaccine."

The grant was given in memory of Betty Barbour, a long-time volunteer at the Plymouth Historical Museum, according to the news release.

The Plymouth Historical Museum is open to the public from 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It is closed January 11-26 for an exhibit changeover to "First Ladies--Fashion Setters."

The new exhibit will open on Jan. 27.