FULDA — The newly constructed annex building of the Fulda Depot is open, displaying the local history of the community and surrounding area.
The Fulda Heritage Society received a grant to erect the building in 2016. Although a little more work is still needed — the bathroom is only half-finished, and the building needs to be insulated — FHS has arranged artifacts inside the building for public viewing.
"We have to do a little more research now," said Marge Winter, who chairs FHS.
A Fulda native, Winter said her interest in local history stems from her love of old things. Although she grew up in town, there are some artifacts in the society's collection that she hasn't been able to identify.
Opening the annex has allowed the society to do a complete inventory of all of its items, Winter said. Artifacts are arranged in the annex by subject matter, with sections for themes like baseball, the military, the fire department, archery, fishing, music and toys, as well as for local historical figures, such as musician Tommy Webb and barber Ray Kramer. A couple of iconic businesses also have dedicated vignettes — notably Gertie's Gown Shop and Probst's Jewelry.
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Most of the inventory has been donated to FHS, Winter explained. Private citizens along with organizations like the Murray County Historical Society, the Fulda Memorial Library and the Slayton Public Library have been supportive of FHS's mission to preserve local history.
"Every community should do this," said FHS member Loretta Gehl.
The annex is open to the public 9 a.m. to noon Wednesdays or by appointment.
