Phase I of the restoration project now under way for the Garden City Historical Society Museum at the original Apostle House has begun. Built in the 1870s, the house is one of the original homes here in the village. "This is why it's such an important aspect to the village's history," Joanne K. Adams, Historical Society president, said.

The house has been moved around Garden City three times, most recently making its way to 109 Eleventh Street. Adams noted the latest move was made during the late 1980s with the house in a very "run down" state. "As part of its mission, the Historical Society hoped to open a museum in the house," Adams said. The exact uses and how the house would function are details the village board is currently deciding.

Using grant money received from Senator Kemp Hannon through the Empire State Development Fund, the completed Phase I work included installing a fire sprinkler system and installing fire and smoke alarms.

The organization plans to continue its rigorous fundraising campaign to obtain additional monies to get the ground level and first floor in a position to fix up, decorate and eventually open to the public. Phase II work would entail heating, plumbing and other inclusive details. Period furniture donated by local residents will decorate the house.

"This is the closest the society has ever been to getting this accomplished," Adams said. "We don't want the ball to drop; we need to immediately get more funding."

The society is currently looking for grant money and individual and corporate donations; contributions are kind as well, Adams said. For more information or to offer a gift of money, call Adams at 248-7132.