PHOTO BY LISA CARNLEY Grants have allowed refurbishments of the Lampasas Colored School, and additional funding is being sought to complete the project. Where once stood a gaping hole and a building overflowing with dirt and garbage, now stands four solid walls -- part of a building being molded into a historically accurate replica of the Lampasas Colored School, which has played a vital part in the community's past.

The refurbishment is a testament to residents whose hope to share the community's roots have spurred continued work on the former school.

The project is being guided by Preservation Lampasas Inc., and Mayor Judith Hetherly is the group's liaison with the Texas Historical Commission.

The THC has provided funding that recently facilitated completion of concrete flooring. Next up is replacement of the roof.

Ms. Hetherly said the roof work should use up the remainder of the THC grant funds, but she is confident a second round of funding is available.

"THC is very interested in our project," she said. "They realize how important it is and what an investment it is in our community."

If approved, grant funding will be used for inside electrical work, insulation and walls.

If for some reason the grant is turned down, Ms. Hetherly said fund-raising events will continue in the community.

One such fund-raiser on the horizon is a production by Lometa's One-Act Play cast. The group will host performances May 2 in Lampasas to raise funds for the Colored School project. Tickets will go on sale soon.

Ms. Hetherly noted that all facets of Lampasas County have become involved in efforts to refurbish the former schoolhouse. "I feel really good about it. It is a project that everyone seems to support, and it is bringing our community together for a common goal."

The mayor remarked that work done thus far has been of superior quality. "Our contractors are doing a wonderful job. We couldn't have asked for any better. Mike Hail and Ron Ischy have worked hard for us."

Ms. Hetherly also is pleased with the support shown in a recent fund-raising effort that offered the public a chance to purchase a window -- eight were available initially -- in memory or in honor of a former student of the Colored School. All but one window is sold, she said.

"I hope someone will purchase the final window in honor of one of the school's former principals, Billy Orman," said Ms. Hetherly.

Anyone interested in making a donation to the fund may contact Preservation Lampasas Inc. at 556-5266 or send a check to P.O. Box 1632, Lampasas, TX 76550.