Grandview Gallery

What’s next for the

In 2020, I celebrated five years in business with an open house in the old school building that now sits on our family ranch. I was blown away by the support of the local community and travelers from over four hours away. In 2021, my family held another open house in the building that my family now refers to as the Grandview Gallery. Once again, you came!

Grandview Township School originally stood in its namesake township, about four miles west of Okaton, SD. Built between 1908 and 1911 on the land of the homesteader, William F. Kennedy. In 1953, my husband’s great-grandfather, Henry Roghair, purchased the land from Mr. Kennedy.

In the 1980’s, the school was moved six miles east to what is now my home. The previous owner of the ranch had hoped to make use of it. Since then, the former building of education has observed the prairie from it’s hilltop vista.

It has long been my dream to restore the Grandview school into a gallery and art education building! I desire to keep the original building looking as close to what is currently seen as possible. What has stood in the way are finances. I have nothing to pour into this space to restore it’s charm.

Since the first open house a few patrons, who share my vision of restoration, have generously donated to make the Grandview Gallery a reality!

Starting in fall 2022, we hope to begin Phase I of III!

Preparing for Phase 1

Grandview Gallery is not sitting on a foundation. The ground has shifted and with it the building. The structure is solid but the floor is bowing. Working with a contractor who specializes in the restoration of old buildings, Phase I will include:

Raising the building
Pouring concrete foundation
Lowering the building onto the foundation and anchoring
New floor joists

Phase II will include roofing, siding and windows. Phase III will include the interior.

Phase I and part of Phase II can be completed at this time. I am looking into what I can do to finance the completion of Phase II, especially by winter of 2022/23. I would love to be able to have the building exterior finished by then.

I am working with a construction company in South Dakota and a local concrete business. As much as possible, I will use our local Jones County businesses for the materials.

Ways you can be involved

Current Funding

35%

Grandview Gallery has been established as an LLC and all gifts to help with the restoration are considered as such. All gifts are being matched by an anonymous contributor.

All gifts will go directly into the restoration project of Grandview Gallery but for 3.49% of PayPal processing fees. You do not need a PayPal account to give.

If you would prefer to directly give to my accout at our local bank, I have an account set up for Grandview Gallery. Please call First Fidelity Bank in Murdo, SD, and ask for Tim Kinsley (605.669.2492), who can assist you.

Thank you for your part in the incredible process of restoring this historical prairie gem!