Nonprofit Status In Jane Preservation Society’s Future
In a world that is rapidly changing, residents of Jane are uniting to preserve a remnant of days gone by – the historic post office that sits at the heart of the village.
Earlier this month, concerned locals gathered in the Jane Store to discuss the path to preserving this structure and, in the future, other pieces of the community’s past.
The most pressing issue is that of the post office’s roof. Gayla Baker explained that the southern wall of the building has started to rot. Now, in addition to new shingles, the roof also needs a number of rafters rebuilt.
After meeting with city leaders to identify and prioritize concerns, contractor Chad Slinkard bid $11,450 to repair the infrastructure damage and apply dipped shingles to the roof.
Residents previously entertained a bid for $4,640 to repair a portion of the roof from a contractor in Joplin, but locals felt he didn’t understand their wishes.
“They wanted someone they knew and could go yell at if they didn’t like the job,” said Bill Martin.
City leaders have already secured $4,250 in pledges, but additional funds need to be raised regardless of which bid is accepted.
It was mutually agreed upon by those in attendance that forming a 501(c)(3) charity would best suit the goals of the constituency. The decision is the first of many steps to securing that IRS designation.
First, leaders of the informal organization must create bylaws, articles of incorporation and a federal I.D. number.
Once the organization is formally recognized, there is then an application review and determination process before approval is granted to become a charity.
The mission of the Jane Preservation Society is “to advance the understanding, appreciation, preservation, restoration, and protection of anything of historical value to Jane and its surrounding communities.”
A board of trustees was chosen and an annual membership fee of $15 was established. Those wishing to join the organization can bring membership dues to the Jane Store.
The Jane post office opened Aug. 23, 1882. The office’s mailboxes remained in use until 1966 when the building was closed and a new branch was opened further down Main Street. Service ceased there on Oct. 1, 1987.
Much of the original building’s architecture pays unspoken homage to the Old West-era in which it was constructed. The highpitched roof, shady front porch, and rustic facade all lend to the landmark appeal — an appeal that has not gone unnoticed.
Jane Preservation Society will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20 in the Jane Store.
Anyone interested in learning more about the organization or pledging any amount of money towards the restoration of the post office should contact Gayla Baker at 417-592-7918.