Historic building in Cairo gets funding for repairs
A winter scene of the Bank of Cairo Building with the North Bend Rail Trail to the right of the building. (Photo by Susan J. Scott)
The Bank of Cairo Building was built in 1896. (Photo courtesy of the Ritchie County Historical Society)
A winter scene of the Bank of Cairo Building with the North Bend Rail Trail to the right of the building. (Photo by Susan J. Scott)
The Bank of Cairo Building was built in 1896. (Photo courtesy of the Ritchie County Historical Society)
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CAIRO -- The Bank of Cairo Building, a longtime centerpiece of history in Cairo, has recently received a state grant to maintain its preservation.
The West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History allocated $465,460 in development grants to 21 historical landmarks and projects statewide after approval from the state Legislature and selection by a panel from the state Historic Preservation Office.
The building in Ritchie County was chosen to receive $12,500 after applying for the grant money in March that was acquired through lottery funds.
"The Ritchie County Historic Landmarks Commission purchased the building in 2017 and we have been seeking funds to repair the roof, which has been leaking," said David Scott, chairman for the Ritchie County Historic Landmarks Commission. "We need to receive matching funds because the project will be about $25,000 in total."
The Bank of Cairo was built in 1896 and temporarily closed after the Wall Street Crash in 1929, according to Scott. It reopened in 1941 and permanently closed in 1974.
The building has served as a location for various community organizations since and was registered in the National Registry of Historic Places in 1996.
"Today, the Bank of Cairo Building is home to the North Bend Rails to Trails Foundation and tours are available to the public on Saturdays," Scott said.
From its large classic brick structure to its unique architectural side entrance, the building is rich in history and fond recognition from Cairo natives, Scott said.
The Ritchie County Historic Landmarks Association is acccepting donations for the remainder of the project. If you are interested, contact the Ritchie County Historic Landmarks Commission at 115 E. Main St. in Room 201.