Rices Hotel-Hughletts Tavern Foundation Inc

1. In 2008 a carriage house museum was dedicated. Istea grants were received to cover the cost of construction. The museum displays restored antique carriages, buggies, carts. Work began on the restoration of a 1929 model a. Other permanent displays are being developed. 2. A functional blacksmith's shop is complete. This construction was done by an all volunteer group known as the tavern rangers. The blacksmith's shop produces items for sale. Member of the blacksmith's guild are trained in the blacksmith trade/skills. The blacksmith shop is open during the farmer's market and provides demonstrations of a working forge. 3. The educational program focuses on 3rd and 4th grade students who study virginia history as a part of our state curriculum. In 2008, the program expanded to include 5th grade students and the northern neck home schoolers association. Expenses included printing costs, postage, and office supplies, and telephone. Over 2400 students were given a taste of local history. Hands on activities included, quilt making, brick making, colonial games, net mending, quill writing, african american storytelling, and archeology. 4. Now that the tavern and hotel are restored, the foundation assumes the responsibility to maintain this building. Expenses included are for insurance, maintenance, utilities, telephone, etc. Protection 4. The transportation museum was completed in 2005. The carriage house was completed in late 2007. The museum houses many examples of antique carriages and vehicles. The museum is open on a regular schedule and during the farmer's market. The transporation building is used for demonstrations of quilting, spinning, weaving, making thread. These demonstrations are provide during the farmer's market and for the educational programs conducted by the tavern.