The blacksmith workshop project at the Lincoln County Historical Museum has received a $7,752 grant from Visit North Platte.

The board of directors approved the grant at the monthly meeting on Aug. 28

Museum Director Jim Griffin presented an application to replace and expand the roof on the existing blacksmith shop, Visit North Platte Executive Director Lisa Burke said. The workshop is used to provide educational experiences to youth who regularly visit the museum on school field trips, as well as residents of the community, and visitors at the museum.

Funds come from taxes on overnight hotel and motel visits, consisting of a 2% collection to improve tourism attractions. Another 2% is collected for promotion of tourism in the area, Burke said. Promotional grants are awarded separately.

The new roof at the blacksmith shop will not only improve the appearance but also provide a larger area for those watching blacksmith demonstrations, Burke said. And, the ventilation system included in the roof will provide a more pleasant and safe experience for blacksmiths that give the demonstrations.

The Lincoln County Historical Museum is a local treasure, Burke said in the announcement. Visitation at the museum has grown from 7,500 annually to more than 24,000 under Griffin’s direction. Maintaining the condition and integrity of the museum and its exhibits is important in attracting visitors, she said.

Visit North Platte has been awarding improvement fund grants annually for the 17 years. Over this time, a total of $5.9 million has been committed to improving tourism facilities and services in the county.

The next round of improvement grants will open on Jan. 1. The deadline for intent-to-apply letters is April 1, and the application deadline is July 31. Anyone interested in submitting a grant application is encouraged to contact Burke at 308-532-4729 to discuss their project.

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