‘s House – Marion Museum
The Museum is open the first Saturday and third Sunday every month from 11am – 3pm.
Jennie’s House History
In 2004, the Marion Town Board, led by Supervisor Jolene Bender, passed a resolution to purchase Jennie’s House for $42,272.10, with the intention of turning it into the Marion Museum. The town board members were: LaVerne Bliek, Linda Lee, Ken Hill, and Bob Haak. After receiving a grant in 2009, the town contracted MRB Engineering to design the renovation, but the initial construction estimate came in at $512,500.
The Historic Association, led by Carolyn Adriaansen, began the renovation process in 2011, starting with a volunteer effort to dig out and repour the basement floor. Gary Lau worked on reinforcing the basement beams, and the front porch was remodeled by Charlie Fisher. Meanwhile, Gordon Van Hall volunteered to refinish the fireplace. Over the following years, volunteers continued painting and decorating, making steady progress.
In 2015, the town contracted Knatitus Construction to remodel the side porch, and additional work included the installation of a new furnace and roof, with significant contributions from local donors like Les Adriaansen, who covered the cost of the electrical work done by Leno Electric. John Cornell Heating & A/C also donated labor for the installation of a new furnace and A/C system.
The attic was turned into a large storage area after new floor joists were installed by Code Enforcement Officer Duane Smeatin. Airtight Services insulated the house, and volunteers continued with drywalling and plaster removal. Throughout these years, several donations and volunteer efforts were crucial in keeping the project moving forward.
In 2018, the Highway Department dug the hole for the new addition. Roegiers Masonry did the cellar wall and floor. Willis Consstruction roughed in the new addition access lift and ramp installed the new elevator.
By 2019, the house saw more painting, floor work, and electrical updates. The porch was painted, and interior work included finishing the parlors and dining room, as well as adding electrical outlets. The Historic Association also secured a storage area to help organize building materials.
In 2020 the new porch and ADA Compliant handicap ramp and sidewalk completed.
In 2022, Cornelius Construction installed the siding on the new addition and significant renovations continued, with plaster removal, framing, drywall, and painting. Electrical and plumbing work advanced, and roof repairs were made. The house saw improvements to the porch, lift adjustments, and new back porch railings installed.
In 2023, major updates were made with window installations, drywall finishing, and flooring. Volunteers and contractors, including L&J Smith Home Improvements, worked on painting, sanding, and finishing rooms. Burgio Plumbing finished hooking up the sinks and toilet.
By 2024, the museum building was near completion, with final trim work, kitchen flooring, and security systems installed by Vindex S&E, LLC. Display setups continued, including the MCS sports display and military display case. The museum’s grand opening took place during the Fall Festival, marking a milestone in the renovation process.
In 2025, work continued, including painting basement walls, installing UV tinting on windows, and adding soap and paper towel dispensers.
For a more detail report feel free to reach out to Heidi Levan, Town Clerk/Records Management Officer.