Chalmers Institute
The building housing Chalmers Institute was built in 1837 by the emerging town of Holly Springs, which was yet to face the ravages of War, a devastating outbreak of Yellow Fever and the ensuring decades of time during which the structure became a residence and then eventually fell into a state of neglect until Preserve Marshall County & Holly Springs, Inc. (PMCHS) acquired it 2009 and began planning for its rebirth and a third life.
Chalmers Institute still stands at the same location as one of the city’s oldest buildings and as one of the state’s most historically significant structures.
PMCHS, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization, works toward the continued stabilization and rehabilitation of Chalmers Institute as part of the mission to protect the historic resources and cultural legacy of both the county and city.
After completing the first three phases of work on the building, returning both floors back to usable space, PMCHS began planning for the 4th phase of the project to restore all the doors and windows.
Then came the violent storm of June 2, 2018, which sent a 200 year-old pecan tree crashing into the north side (rear) of Chalmers Institute, destroying a full third of the east (1857) addition…and much of the restoration work completed not six months before.
Through much effort and continued support from longtime supporters, PMCHS was able to overcome this set-back and have much to celebrate in the upcoming Picnic on the Lawn at Historic Chalmers Institute on Saturday, August 10. PMCHS’ welcomes the opportunity to showcase what is actually a SECOND re-birth of old Chalmers Institute.
This first “Picnic on the Lawn” event at Chalmers Institute, will feature foodstuffs catered by The Southern Eatery, drinks, live music and a silent auction with an incredibly diverse selection of unique items for bidding.
Don’t need to put on your Sunday best, but you might want to bring your dancing shoes. Come join us for this special event and meet others who have been drawn to events at historic Chalmers Institute, to support Preserve Marshall County & Holly Springs, Inc.’s work.
When: August 10, 2019 from 4-7 pm
Where: Chalmers Institute at 151 S. West Boundary Street – Holly Springs, Mississippi
Early Bird tickets are $20 per person or $35 per couple until 07 August; then $25 per person
Send check to: PMCHS – P.O. Box #787 – Holly Springs, MS 38635
Or purchase tickets online at preservemarshall.org/picnic-on-the-lawn
