Vail House Archives & Office Project Update

The OHS Board of Trustees has carefully examined the critical need for a storage solution that would allow OHS to better organize, make more widely available, and properly protect its collections. In 2022, the board reviewed various options with the assistance of consultants that have deep experience with historical societies and historic buildings. As a result, the Board feels confident that building an up-to-date archival collections center as an addition to Vail House (with a particular focus on historical and architectural appropriateness) is the best path forward for the organization.

The first major step in the project is sending out a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to a wide array of local and regional architects. The RFQ lays out the qualifications and experience required to be considered for the project. Once an architect has been chosen and approved by the OHS Board, the project—with community input and support—will move into the design phase including more detailed plans and preliminary cost estimates. Click here to view the RFQ and a listing of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

We will post information on our website and report on progress in our regular email newsletters and social media. In addition, as we hit major milestones during the project, we will hold meetings to discuss the project with the community.