Project Description

Master planning for the proposed expansion of the Allen County Museum began in 2002. Three primary objectives were identified: 1) to raze the current old house that is the Children's Museum and replace it with a new Children's Discovery Center- as a part of the main museum building; 2) to create a centralized railroad archives and research center dedicated in memory of John H. Keller; and 3) to expand, and environmentally secure, the storage and staging areas for the Society's vast collections.

The proposed addition will double the size of the current building, improving ease of visitor circulation, and providing space for a large rotating gallery. The large curved glass area will showcase the Shay Locomotive and create a visually stimulating architectural feature on the corner of Market and Metcalf Streets. (Note the reflecting pool in the shape of a "Cow Catcher.")

Private fund raising for the $6.5 million Campaign to Move our Past Forward is currently underway with more than $2 million already secured in grants and pledges. The campaign is being co-chaired by Mr. Bill Timmermeister and Ms. Karen Wright. Several naming opportunities and gift levels have been identified and pledges are available for a period of five years. 

For more information on how you can support this important project, and preserve our rich heritage, contact Patricia Smith, Museum Director, 620 W. Market St., Lima, OH 45801: (419) 222-9426: e-mail - acmuseum@bright.net.

See also the Update to Phase I of our Campaign to Move Our Past Forward page.

Artist Rendering of the Proposed Building Addition:

Click here to see a larger version of the image above.

Main Level Floor Plan:

Lower Level Floor Plan: