Have you noticed that a treasured item has been missing from the library? The large portrait of Justin Morrill, painted by Constantino Brumidi is no longer in its place above the mantle. 

The Trustees had an opportunity to send the painting to Barry Bauman, a retired conservator who now only works for non-profits and does not charge for his time. He  has worked on other Brumidi paintings and studied at a land grant college, both factors that led him to accept Morrill’s portrait for restoration. Mr. Bauman examined our painting and recommended cleaning, retouching, moisturizing, and adding a secondary support for the canvas.  A restoration like this would normally cost $4,750. Since he is only charging for materials, the fee is $750. Adding in the cost for packing materials and shipping back and forth to Illinois, the total cost is $1,300. 

Half a dozen community members and the Friends of the Morrill Homestead have made generous donations, but we still need to raise another $300. Please consider making a donation, large or small. Checks may be sent to Morrill Memorial and Harris Library, PO Box 110, Strafford, 05072, with a note in the memo line "painting restoration".