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Porch Info

The Friends of The R.D. Pike Building, a 501(c)3 non- profit organization was formed in 2023 to preserve and restore the R.D. Pike Building for the benefit, enjoyment, and historical education of the public. Over 7,000 people visit this property annually.

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Our objective for this phase of the restoration is to rebuild the front “wrap-around” grand porch, which was the visual centerpiece of the building when it was constructed 129 years ago. 

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Toward this end, our present goal is to raise $400,000 which will be used to capitalize on the synergy of the public/private partnership while the historic contractors are restoring the exterior of the building.

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Click image to enlarge.

Would you consider helping the Friends raise those funds to help us care for this amazing and historic building?  Your donations are tax deductible. 

The Big Picture

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On May 7th, 2025, the Wisconsin State Building Commission approved funding in the amount of $1.4 million dollars for updates to the newer hatchery also on the grounds, the visitor center, for two new wells and more. Over $825,000 was also included in that approval to restore, protect and preserve the exterior of the R.D. Pike Building. That work will take place beginning in 2026!

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We anticipate the entire renovation project to cost two to three million dollars (including the funds for the historic building recently dedicated by the State).​

Animated rendering of the porch restoration.

Generations of young people have been initiated into a lifetime of outdoor sports, activities, and appreciation for the natural resources we have in our area, because the hatchery grounds are there.

~ABC Sportsmen

The R.D. Pike Building is an excellent example of the uniquely American trait of public/private partnership which underlies much of our country's development.

~ R. Drake Pike

Porch News

Get Involved!

We have no illusions. The work will take several years and require a substantial investment. We will need your help to bring this dream to life.

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Below are a couple options for becoming part of this exciting adventure! 

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1

Make a
Donation

As we've stated belore, realizing this dream will require a substantial investment. Your support will be critical to the success of this project!

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You can help by donating securely online or by mailing a check to:
 

Friends of the R.D. Pike Building, Inc.

PO Box 511

Washburn, WI 54891-0511

Friends of the R.D. Pike Building is a 501(c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible within applicable laws.

2

Volunteer

We are just getting started with planning and some basic grounds work. We are not fully certain of all the volunteer options at this point.

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However, we would like to build a list of interested volunteers so when the time comes, we can email you about the various options.

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Please complete the Volunteer Interest form to get on the list.

FRDP Logo

Friends of R.D. Pike Building, Inc.

PO Box 511  Washburn, WI 54891-0511  

Les Voigt Hatchery Building Location

83875 State Hwy 13, Bayfield, WI

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Friends of the R.D. Pike Building is a 501(c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible within applicable laws.

© COPYRIGHT 2024-28 Friends of the R.D. Pike Building, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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