Fundraising Continues for Bill Monroe Museum

A western Kentucky tourism official says fundraising is continuing toward the construction of a proposed museum dedicated to bluegrass music legend Bill Monroe.

Ohio County Tourism Commission executive director Jody Flener told the Messenger-Inquirer  that the project's goal is to raise $1 million and conduct a groundbreaking next spring.

Although an architect has yet to be hired, Flener says the museum will focus on Monroe, his family and his band, the Bluegrass Boys.

Flener says Ohio County has received $300,000 in state funding for the project.

Monroe died in 1996. Three years later the county spent $250,000 for several Monroe memorabilia items that have been kept in storage.

A museum website, www.billmonroemuseum.com , was started in April. The website is selling customized bricks for $75 and $250, depending on size.