Our cupola has reached the end of its life. After 80 years it is no longer able to weather the storms.
There is tremendous rot from leaks extending well before the Arts Center bought the building nearly 30 years ago. Repairs have been made extensively, however the leaks persist. This has had a ripple effect, causing damage to rafters and other attic materials and significant damage to the plaster on the ceiling in the lobby and the gallery.
Due to this damage, the iconic cupola is barely holding itself together.
The museum board of directors has engaged a well-respected preservation architect, Josh Vernon of Urban Fabric from Murray, KY, to guide us through the replacement process. Josh was the designer for our accessibility entrance and new restrooms in 2020.
The board of directors finds it prudent to replace the roof on the entire building and make repairs to other exterior trim while the contractors have their equipment and employees on site.
The lobby HVAC has also reached the end of its life being 28 years old and needing frequent repairs. This will also be replaced while the cupola is removed from the roof.
The new cupola will look EXACTLY like the original. JMAM has the original plans from 1938 for the building and the architect is using those plans to design the new cupola. We assure our friends and neighbors that we consider it of utmost importance that we maintain the historic aspect of our building as we believe it is critical to the fabric of our community.
While the cupola will look like the original it will be constructed of modern materials to better resist the ravages of time and last another hundred years.
The board has sought various grant opportunities will no positive results. Therefore, it is necessary that we raise the funds to cover this expense. We can no longer delay this matter.
We need your help. Please consider contributing to the cupola repair campaign. We are a 501 (c) 3 organization and your donation will be 100% tax deductible.
There are a number of ways you can contribute.
- There is the old fashioned (but tried and true) way by sending a check by mail to
JMAM Cupola, P.O. Box 952, Cadiz, KY 42211 - You may stop by or call the museum to make your contribution. (270) 522-9056
- You may contribute stock or other financial assets through Edward Jones.
- You may quickly and securely donate on-line at any time (click this link).
JMAM very much appreciates the support we have received from the community. Your support, no matter the amount, is vital to the future of the museum. Thank you for your help!
