ENGLISH – The English Civic Club plans to rehabilitate a 127-year-old mill in the old English town in Crawford County.
The mill, built in 1897, has been vacant for about 15 years. It’s the only significant structure remaining in the original town of English.
Michell Allen Ritz Architects in New Albany is working on the design. The nonprofit English Civic Club received a $4,000 grant from Indiana Landmarks to pay for the design and Crawford County Tourism provided $3,500. Once the design is complete, the group will have a cost estimate for construction.
According to Tami Redding, president of the English Civic Club, the vision is to have a restaurant on the main level, a coffee shop or diner, and a general store where you could pick up grocery items and feature artisan wares from the area.
The upper level will be used as a meeting or event space for small gatherings of 50 or less.
One idea for the basement area is to feature a gallery of photos of English before the devastating flood that prompted the town to relocate. There’s also interest in providing a space for youth to gather. Another idea is to offer bicycle and golf cart rentals.
The building will be equipped with an elevator.
Information: Southern Indiana Business Report
