Boulder, Colorado, 1 March, 2005 - Heritage Conservation Network and the Francis Mill Preservation Society will be conducting a hands-on building conservation workshop at the Francis Mill in Waynesville, NC in July 2005. The workshop follows a similar and very successful workshop last year in which the lower level framing was repaired and the structure fully stabilized. Work this year will focus on repairing the upper level framing.

The Post and Beam Conservation Workshop offers people a chance to learn how to work with a specific construction type while helping restore the oldest grist mill in Haywood County. Time permitting, the work crews may also begin work on repairing the siding and reconstruction of the mill dam, flume and mill race. Volunteers are expected from throughout the country in a mix representing students, architects, preservationists and old mill enthusiasts as well as local volunteers working to save a piece of their mountain heritage.

Jeff Finch, a restoration expert from Franklin, NY, will once again lead the work crews, providing overall guidance through the effort as well as training in specific woodworking and building conservation skills. The workshop consists of two one-week segments – July 17-23 and July 24-30 – and participants may attend one or both weeks. The cost of the workshop is $950 per week, which includes lodging, lunches, workshop materials and insurance. A special rate of $475 per week is available for participants who do not require lodging. Pre-registration is required.

Complete workshop details and registration information are available from Heritage Conservation Network, 1557 North Avenue, Boulder, Colorado, 80304, 303 444 0128 or www.heritageconservation.net.