Today I had a chance to visit with wind energy entrepreneur Joe Kolbach, who is working to restore the buildings on the old blind school campus near Gary. His project is easily one of the most ambitious and interestiing rural renovation projects in state history.

Joe and his associates plan to renovate the historic buildings, and they even hope to restore the old lake and trout stream that runs past Gary. His master plan calls for creation of lodging, a museum, recreational opportunitites and the possible restoration of the old Lake Elsie. He wants to involve the Deuel County community in the planning process, and he has reached out to the rural renewal experts in Miner County for guidance.

The School for the Blind operated in the buildings from 1900 to 1959. After the school was moved to Aberdeen, the facilities were used as a retirement home for a few years. However, the area citizens have never really given up on the campus; many times through the years, I've heard the locals express hope that someone would come along with a vision.

Joe is also collecting information about its history as a School for the Blind. He wants to preserve not only the brick and mortar, but the stories that brought the campus to life. Email him at joe.kolbach@dakwind.com if you have anything to add.

We'll keep you posted on the project it progresses.

(click on photos to enlarge)