The Scriver Building isn't just another historic structure. It's where the James-Younger Gang met their defeat in 1876. It's where our community proved that ordinary citizens could stand up to outlaws and change the course of history. And for 50 years, it's been home to the Northfield History Center, our museum, and the setting of countless raid reenactments.
Now the building that anchors our community is in decline. Without intervention, we risk further deterioration of one of our community’s most important assets.
This year marks the 150th anniversary of the raid and the 50th anniversary of the History Center. We're using that convergence to do something that honors both: restore the building, strengthen the organization, and invest in Northfield's future.
Our “Save the Scriver Building” campaign will:
Repair failing exterior bricks, stonework, stucco, windows, moldings, and our metal cornice.
Restore our facade to its 1876 appearance (so raid reenactments can happen in front of the building as it looked when history was made).
Revitalize two declining upstairs apartments and add three new apartments (creating new housing our community desperately needs and new recurring revenue to sustain our organization for the next 50 years).
Replace a number of building systems to make environmental, health, and safety upgrades to bring the building into the 21st century while honoring its past.
We’ve gathered the support of a wide range of notable Northfielders, and now we need your support as well.
Your tax-deductible gift of any amount is an investment in the future of Northfield’s past!
HELP US BY DONATING TODAY!
Make a Donation
Your gift will strengthen the fabric of what makes Northfield unique and write your name into our history for generations to come.
Donation Levels:
$50–$99 Supporter Level
Helps provides materials and supplies for the restoration
Recognition: Your name in lights (on our website)
$100–$499 Townie Level
Restores 1 square foot of the Scriver building
Recognition: Join us for a hard hat tour during construction
$500–$4,999 Posse Level
Provides 50 square feet of masonry tuck pointing
Recognition: We have some great campaign swag for you
$5k–$14.9k Scriver Saver Level
Provides 1 fully installed new window
Recognition: We’re working on a custom gift just for you
$15k–$49.9k Heywood Level
Helps create 1 new apartment
Recognition: It’s going to be a really nice gift
$50K+ Legacy Builder
Significantly contributes to the longevity of the Scriver building
Recognition: Can we name something after you?
If you would like to discuss a large gift, estate planning options, or a multi-year gift, please contact campaign@northfieldhistory.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, the Northfield Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are fully tax deductible.
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Volunteers are an essential part of the Northfield History Center team. Contact director@northfieldhistory.org for more information.
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We’re happy to discuss possibilities with you. Please contact campaign@northfieldhistory.org
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Certainly! Send us a note at campaign@northfieldhistory.org and we’ll honor the person of your choice.