The town of Fairfax
deeded the Gregory State Bank Building, the only remaining terra cotta
building in South Dakota, to the society in March of 2003. The building was
built in 1917 on Main Street and is on the National Register of Historical
Places. Fundraisers, grants, many private donations and volunteer hours have
helped in being able to open the building to the public which is now the
East Gregory Museum.
The purpose is to,
through donations and loans, collect, preserve, and retain articles
pertaining to the area. Several items have been collected from the old Ft.
Randall church, from pioneer residents, and other organizations and churches
in the area. Dr. Manion’s father’s large collection of his early physician’s
books, tools, notes, and medical supplies is one of the most complete
displays.
Projects have
included repairing and saving the intricate scrollwork and the antique light
fixtures, painting, restoring marble and carpeted floor areas, as well as
painting outside of windows and many more projects. The Gregory County
Historical Society will donate a large sign to be placed at a later date.
