We Love the Alexandra Lodge Go Fund Me

About us and Our original plan

 

Ken and I are self-employed. As we near retirement and in buying the Alexandra Lodge, we found a property that would allow us to make extra income. Specifically a place to sell our arts and perhaps rent as AirBB to supplement us in our retirement. Being self-employed, we only have Canada Pensions.

 

We had our eye on the Alexandra Lodge Property for 8 or 9 years. While we were shocked at the condition of the Alexandra Lodge we could see its potential. We planned to live in an RV as we made it livable. We moved onto the Property on July 31, 2021, but could not start the work needed due to heritage complications. We were able to start the renovation work on the Alexandra Lodge on November 1, 2021. We tried to get the roof on in November 2021, but it was only partially installed. The epic rains came, then the temperatures dropped, and this was followed by epic snow, which hit the area. Roads were closed. We had hoped to be living in the Alexandra Lodge By December 2021 but our move-in date is now anticipated for Spring or Summer of 2022.

 

When we sold our house we were able to purchase the property outright. In addition, we had enough money to replace the roof and some of the interior renovations. Since moving, we have had unexpected expenses due to construction delays, winterization of the RV, RV furnace replacement, water tank repairs, and water and sump equipment. In addition, Ken could not get to work for extended periods during the epic rains and snowstorms and when the Highways were closed for extended periods.

 

Our original plan was to focus all of our earnings for the next two years on the restoration to include the second-floor living quarters. The first floor will be to an art studio, Artist Co-op/store, and perhaps Air BB rooms/cabins. We initially saw the property as a private retreat and storefront.

 

Our plans have changed, however. We have since learned more about the History of the Property and how much people love the Alexandra Lodge. We knew it was a heritage building and an old roadhouse but have since learned that it is so much more. The Alexandra Lodge is loved by many, and we now feel that the Alexandra Lodge needs to be accessed by the community.

 

We will be creating living quarters on the second floor, but we have now expanded our plans for the property. We plan to include free community access and spaces.

 

Our new plans and the focus of Go Fund Me, future fundraising funds and our earnings for the next two years.

 

Our restoration will now focus on the Historical and Social value of The Historic Alexandra Lodge. Our once simple interior renovation is now a mission to complete a Historic restoration and to allow for community access and use. We hope to accommodate school field trips by donation, a free photography area for weddings and family events, a washroom and picnic area. The new plans are more expensive than we planned for and will require more work. We have come to realize that we need to preserve this important part of BC’s and Canada’s history.

 

Go fund me and other fundraising initiative wish list. This is how the money will be used.

 

• A weeping tile system will be installed around the Lodge and landscaping will be lowered to below the cement foundation or a waterproof membrane will be added where needed. The current landscaping around the Lodge is too high and the dirt up against the exterior is to high. There is significant rot at the base of many of the outer walls to be repaired.

• We will create a creekside public rest stop with picnic tables, a water fountain and composting toilet.

• Landscaped areas for public photographs will be created.

• A museum and historical display of the Alexandra Lodge and the 1926 renovation will be created. The main floor interior will be public areas will include period correct finishings. The first floor will house an Artist’s Co-op and storefront. In time we hope to establish a Potters and Artist Guild providing free meeting space.

• The famous McClary stove will be restored

• The original kitchen will be restored with a copper ceiling and fixtures. This will also be Shirley’s Art studio. Studio furnishings will not be funded via any fundraising initiative.

• The property will be fully inclusive and wheelchair accessible.

• The front entrance to the Lodge will include a wheelchair ramp and accessible entrance.

• The Historic Alexandra Lodge will be modernized with updated electrical, heating, and insulation.

• Replace or repair the Lodge windows and doors.

• Security system and interior storm/security windows will be installed.

• Repair and replace exterior logs, window trims, deck and balcony and restore to the original color scheme of the Alexandra Lodge.

• Local trades people will be hired as needed for the Historic preservation and restoration.

 

Please note the Go Fund Me monies will not be used for the renovation of the second-floor personal living space, finishes, cabinets or appliances. In addition, we will self-fund the art studio space and a future workshop/garage space for Ken.