The new community building under construction in Sinking Spring’s Heritage Park is nearing completion, officials said.
“We’re hoping for it to be done by the end of May,” said Michael Hart, borough manager.
The new building is being erected on the foundation of a 19th century freight depot that was heavily damaged by fire last March.
Hart said the investigation showed the fire resulted from an electrical short caused by squirrels chewing the wires.
The 1872 freight depot known as the Freight House in Sinking Spring’s Heritage Park is heavily damaged by a fire last March. The building was used for meetings by community groups and displayed artifacts owned by Sinking Spring Area Historical Society. (MICHELLE LYNCH – READING EAGLE)
Officials initially planned to restore the wooden structure, which dated to 1858 and had been moved to the park and restored by volunteers from two organizations that later merged to become the Sinking Spring Area Historical Society and Heritage Park.
However, Hart said, inspections found the fire-damaged depot also suffered water and other structural damage that made restoration unfeasible. Only the stone fireplace and chimney, added in the mid-20th century, remained intact.
Fire-damaged 19th century depot in Sinking Spring demolished
The decision was made to rebuild because the building was used for meetings and community events as part of the borough’s recreation system.
The completed structure will closely resemble the original depot while meeting current ADA and code requirements. Features include modern restrooms and a food-preparation area that could be used for catered events.
The cost of rebuilding is being funded by the borough’s insurance and capital improvement fund.
Hart said the new building could be finished later this spring and will be available for rent to borough residents and others.
The Freight House in the Sinking Spring’s Heritage Park is being rebuilt following a fire that destroyed the original 1872 building last year. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE)
While the official occupancy limit has not been established yet, he said the facility can accommodate small meetings and events of about 30 to 40 people.
Rental rates for the facility remain to be determined, Hart said.
Paul Miller, president of the area historical society, commended the borough’s effort. The construction materials used in the new building closely match those of the old freight house. There also are plans to reuse the original sliding doors, which were salvaged from the fire, he said.
Some of the group’s artifacts, which had been displayed inside the old depot, were damaged, Miller noted. A few items, including a freight wagon and vintage railroad crossing signs, are being professionally restored using a combination of insurance claim money and private donations, he said.
Several other damaged items, including a large painting and architectural railing, are still being evaluated for restoration, he said, noting any donations are much appreciated.
Donations can be made payable to Sinking Spring Area Historical Society and Heritage Park and mailed to treasurer Richard Bossler Jr., 836 Columbia Ave., Sinking Spring, PA 19608.