March 27, 2014 is a bit of a historic day as we proudly are able to announce that we have finally reached our goal. Thanks to all of the citizens, businesses, Main Street Skowhegan, and other community groups who helped make this possible. the Indian Restoration Project Committee, a collaborative group comprised of the Skowhegan Area Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Skowhegan and concerned local citizens and arts enthusiasts, proudly announced that the $65,000 fundraising goal has been met. The final donations came from all over the country from Florida, California, Wisconsin, to right here at home in Skowhegan. The final donation came from Skowhegan Three, the cooperative of the three women’s groups in Skowhegan: GFWC/ Women’s Club, the GFWC/Semper Fidelis and the GFWC/Dove Society. A portion of that donation was raised through the selling of Indian prints created by Richard Anzelc, and the remainder was a collaborative donation from the three groups. “That is what this project is all about,” said SACC Executive Director Cory King, “citizens, business owners, local organizations and art lovers coming together to support a single common goal which enriches our entire community.” The funds for the project were raised through community events, grants, taxpayer support and individual donations over the last ten years. The Skowhegan Indian will be restored in July and August of 2014, and there will be numerous local events surrounding the project as part of the community’s Indian Summer celebration.

With the Indian funding project complete, donations and proceeds from future Indian events and Indian Summer marketing item sales, will go towards a continued maintenance fund for the Indian statue. Additionally funds will be raised for development of a green space at the base of the Indian, with project plans still in development. Also Main Street Skowhegan is continually working on fundraising for a Langlais Art walk initiative which will link the two dozens other Langlais’ works destined for the Skowhegan area this summer, and the Indian, into a single downtown tour. For more information on the status of these projects or for questions, find the Indian Restoration Project on Facebook, or call the SACC at 474-3621 or Main Street Skowhegan at 612-2571.