Open to all interested parties, the workshop "can be viewed as a work week project, not unlike an old-fashioned barn-raising," explains Judith Broeker, the program director for Heritage Conservation Network, the non-profit organization coordinating the workshop. HCN workshops help bricks and mortar preservation projects succeed while increasing the ability of people to care for the built environment. "We want each person attending the workshop to feel they have had a valuable hands-on learning experience while making a real contribution to this preservation project", said Ms. Broeker.

The Wickfield Sales Pavilion, located 2 1/2 miles northeast of Cantril, has been noted since the time of its construction for its unusual shape and its modern - for the time - conveniences. Used for its first ten years as an auction pavilion, it had guestrooms upstairs and a well-equipped kitchen and dining room in the basement. A crow's nest at the peak was used for a card room and social parlor. The Van Buren County Historic Preservation Commission, in agreement with the barn's current owners, has embarked on an ambitious restoration project, estimated to cost $200,000. The HCN workshop will help bring the project closer to completion while helping lower overall project costs.

The workshop will be held June 7 - 13, 2002, and pre-registration is required. Participants will stay in one of several small inns near the Pavilion. The cost of attending the workshop is $825, which includes lodging at one of several small inns near the Pavilion, most meals, insurance and workshop materials. For those not requiring lodging, the fee is $350, and local participants, i.e. members of the local preservation organization or residents associated with the Van Buren County Historic Preservation Commission, may register for $150, which covers lunches, insurance and workshop materials. Registration information can be obtained from the HCN web site at www.heritageconservation.net/workshops.htm, or from the HCN office by calling +1 303 444 0128.