Oliver Museum getting facelift

A heritage attraction in the South Okanagan received a welcome infusion of grant money this week.

Operators of the Oliver and District Museum announced they’ve been awarded nearly $24,000 from the B.C. Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure program.

The cash has been earmarked for three purposes: cleaning and repainting the 97-year-old wood siding on the museum; repairing a collapsing roof on an artifact shelter; and changing the lighting in the Fairview Jail exhibit, which dates back to 1896.

“We are so grateful that these projects have received funding,” museum manager Julianna Weisgarber said in a press release.

“They ensure the continued preservation of the artifacts, the Fairview Jail, and the museum, a unique heritage building and one of the oldest public buildings in our community, for all to enjoy.”

Other projects that were approved include a $150,000 makeover of the heritage gardens at the Keremeos Grist Mill and an $835,000 replacement of the elevated wooden boardwalk at the Osoyoos Desert Centre.