Fifteen years ago, my wife and I opted to take on the tremendous responsibility associated with ownership of a historic home. We felt that it was extremely important to preserve homes that exhibit unusual architecture for future generations to enjoy.
Our house is over 109 years old and was the first property developed in the area, back in 1905. It’s truly a unique treasure. Like many historic homes, it is quite beautiful, but upkeep is becoming increasingly difficult during this recession.
The roof needs immediate repair, and sadly, we do not have the funds to do so. We have recently discovered that the current roof was installed with no underlayment, so that every time that it rains or snows, the water comes into in, causing further damage. Worse yet, we realized that the leaks were causing serious damage to the structure for years before a single drop of water ever made it into our living space!
We are seeking assistance with collecting $6000 to make the necessary repairs. When we first bought the house, we were both healthy and worked full-time. Now, I am classified as disabled and may have congestive heart failure. My physical condition does not allow me to work, or contribute funds to this cause. When we bought the house, we were naïve enough to believe that we would always be healthy enough to earn the income that a home of this type requires, but things have changed.
Our roofing contractor assures us that there is still time to repair the roof and reverse the water damage, but the longer that we wait… the more damage is done, and the repair becomes more expensive. If forced to delay the repair, the roof will eventually collapse.
Our home has always been the recipient of regular repairs and maintenance; people often tell us that our care really shows. This roofing issue is not one that could have been anticipated, nor is it covered by our insurance. The shoddy roof installment occurred before we purchased the home.
Should we collect an amount that exceeds our need; the excess will be used to shore up a few other concerns on the property, such as re-roofing the garage, and restoring the attached greenhouse.
Any amount that you are able to assist us with will be appreciated and every bit helps. $15 buys one sheet of sheetrock and $30 pays for a bundle of shingles. Even $6 covers the cost of a 1 lb. box of screws. And of course, hiring qualified labor is not cheap.
Should we fall short, we are prayerful that the contractor will be able to do something to lessen the damage and keep our house from crumbling around our ears.
We trust in God, and in your generosity to find a way to help us repair our home.
Most sincerely,
Wayne Clingman
Note: We were able to obtain a “Patch” that my wife and I were assured would fix the issue…. Ah, not so much!
We are looking at a more major repair(s). So we are back, not quite at the beginning, and not without hope, for we have met many great folks in Racine area. Just talking about what is going on here with the Chateau, brought to our attention more of the interesting history of the City of Racine and of our home! This too, has allowed me to look at what skills I have, that can be used to earn money, in order to do as much as possible with our own resources: from Dr. Fortune/Tarot Readings, to doing tours of the Chateau,even thinking how I can use Indy Film Wisconsin to bring in resources to pay for such needs as good local contractors to do the work I cannot do. To be sure, tools and materials used in the repairs and restoration will be American Made. (I also understand that in some cases this may not be able to be done, but will be avoided as much as possible)
So if you would like to help, and I sure hope you can, its easy:
Donate what you can.
We do offer Thank You Gifts:
$1-4 An Email Thank You, and your name is added to the hero list on this blog.
$5.00 Pass for a tour of the Chateau, and all the above.
A pass for one person, to tour the open areas of the Chateau and grounds. Must be 18, the Chateau must be open for tours. (best to set up day/time in advance)
$25 30 minute Telephone Tarot Reading with Dr Fortune. Dr Fortune will call a phone number at an agreed day and time, will read your cards on the subject of your choice. This reading will last no less than 30 minutes. You may also choose to do this in person at the Chateau. (an appointment will be needed) Must be 18. Entertainment only. Plus all the above!
$40 T Shirt with Hero of Chateau Clingman On the back. Sizes run Men’s S-3X. North American addresses only. This is a T Shirt and Hero Listing only.
$250 Overnight stay in the Ghost Room (the reported Haunted Bedroom of the Chateau) You +1 stay overnight in the Haunted Bedroom! Before hand, receive a Tarot Reading for the both of you, plus tour of the home and grounds the next morning (If you make it!) I will take you to a local diner for breakfast, and comes with T shirts for both of you. Must be 18 and make reservations in advance.
Note: I reserve the right to not allow anyone in the home, due to disrespect, or any other reason, at my
discretion.
My Wife and I are very thankful for any help you may offer, of any kind.
WE ARE NOT a 501(c) 3 and Not Charitable deduction.
More thank you awards will be offered as they come about.
Please, truly, $1 from a willing heart means far more than words can ever say.
You can also help by buying a book from the “Amazon Front Door” we have, or by simply praying for our efforts.
Please be sure to send the information needed to provide the Thank you gift to be sure, please to email me the same info at
Wclingman@wi.rr.com
You must be logged in to post a comment.