Boulder, Colorado, 29 October, 2004 - Heritage Conservation Network will conduct a hands-on building conservation workshop at the Francis Mill in Waynesville, North Carolina in July 2005, marking the second year the organization has provided assistance to the Francis Mill Preservation Society, the group restoring the last remaining grist mill in Haywood County to working condition.

The workshop, in which participants will learn about conservation of historic post and beam structures by actually working on the 117-year-old building, is scheduled for July 17-30, 2005. This year’s workshop will focus on repairing the upper level framing of the structure and continue the work done last summer. In 2004, HCN workshop participants and FMPS volunteers stabilized the building by replacing the heavily deteriorated sill log on the structure’s east side.

The cost of the workshop is $950/week, which includes lodging, breakfasts and lunches, insurance, and workshop materials. Participants may attend either or both weeks, and people with all levels of experience are encouraged to attend. The workshop has been scheduled to coincide with two of North Carolina’s key cultural events, Folkmoot USA and Belle Chere, which are held in Waynesville and Asheville respectively.

Pre-registration is required. Complete details and registration information are available on HCN’s website: www.heritageconservation.net or directly from Heritage Conservation Network, 1557 North Avenue, Boulder, CO, 80304, 303 444 0128.

Heritage Conservation Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of architectural heritage around the world. Through a network of experts, volunteers and community members, the organization aims to increase awareness of the significance of historic sites and foster the appreciation of varied cultures. HCN’s workshops stimulate a community's interest in and knowledge of appropriate conservation skills, helping provide for the long-term preservation of its significant structures and sites.