Craft School receives state grant to replace bunk house roof

The Shelburne Craft School has received a $6,525 grant as part of the state’s Building Communities grant programs. The grant is to replace the roof on the school’s historic bunk house building.

“It is a great honor to receive this funding, and much needed. We are committed to preserve these wonderfully important pieces of Shelburne History,” said Sage Tucker- Ketcham, executive director of the Shelburne Craft School.

The grant was announced at a ceremony with Gov. Phil Scott in Montpelier.

The bunk house structure dates back to 1849 when it was built as two structures for labors building the Rutland Railroad and later was used as a bowling alley. Eventually moved to their current location, they have contained Shelburne Craft School programs since 1947, according to the school.

The state grant program was established to help communities preserve important historic buildings and enhance community facilities. Grants are awarded to nonprofit groups, regional economic development organizations, and municipalities, and require matching funding. The craft school will match the grant with fundraising.