Projects
1.) Key Room Index: Our initial project was to provide an accessible index to all the keys in the key collection. We believe (but are not certain) that there are over 30,000 keys. We have over 1,000 keys indexed to date. We have completed indexing the rare keys and the collections that cover the walls and are preparing to work on the keys hanging from the ceiling. Steve is preparing a grid for this so that visitors will be readily able to find their key. Categories will be cruise liner ships, hotel keys, whimsical keys (turkey, donkey, snowskey, etc.), World War II keys from Germany, etc. Keys from submarines and airplanes. Reputed keys to Buckingham Palace, Hitler's desk, etc.
2.) Photo collection: We are currently in the process of identifying all the objects and individuals in the photos hanging throughout the Inn. Once completed, or as close to completion as possible, we will provide a searchable index and then a mapping of the photos on the walls so that visitors can identify the photos. Some of these are Presidential photos of Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and Harding. Photos of Jack London, Charlie Chaplin, Roy Rogers. A staff favorite is of General Pershing smiling.
3.) Original Buzz Saw: Steve was able to locate the old buzz saw used here at the Inn and dig it up (it was buried quite deeply in the dirt after decades of non-use). Steve and Brian moved it down the hill and built a platform for the buzz saw to rest upon on display at the Inn. He has to date replaced the blade and the belt which complete the Saw. Finally, he will complete a sign which will include photos of the saw in use years ago and some description of the machinery.
4.) Appraisal and Assessment of Historical Baldpate Inn items: We continue to assess historical items to determine what role they may have had in the Inn's history. The lead Archivist, Brian Johnson, has been assessing and advising on preservation of those items inherent to the history of the Inn.