What is the Brummer Legacy Foundation?

The Brummer Legacy Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by a group of passionate Cherokee residents dedicated to revitalizing downtown through the acquisition, preservation, and restoration of the historic J.H. Brummer Building.

Has the  Brummer Legacy Foundation purchased the Brummer building?

Yes. Thanks to donors like yourself, The Brummer Legacy Foundation was able to complete the purchase of and take on ownership of the building in Spring of 2022. The building was purchased from a private owner living out of state. 

What are the goals of the Brummer Legacy Foundation?

1. Preserve a Historical Landmark: We are committed to a historically accurate restoration of the Brummer Building. By saving this significant piece of Cherokee's past, we will preserve our community's heritage and architectural integrity for future generations.

2. Create a Vibrant Community Hub: The restored building will continue to be a cornerstone of downtown beautification for generations to come. It will provide a mix of high-quality retail and public spaces, helping to attract new businesses and visitors to our downtown. This will create a more dynamic and inviting place for residents to conduct business, gather, shop, and connect.

3. Further Spark Downtown Revitalization: This project will prevent commercial deterioration and breathe new life into a downtown cornerstone. By investing in the Brummer Building, we will contribute to the community's economic well-being and inspire future investment, fostering a renewed sense of pride throughout the community.

What are the (currently) most pressing issues for the Brummer Building? 

Windows!
The Brummer Building restoration entered its next phase in spring 2025, with a massive window project now in full swing. This is a meticulous and time-consuming process, but we have made significant progress over the past few months and are excited about the results. By choosing to restore rather than replace the original windows, we are not only maintaining the building's historical integrity but also saving a substantial amount of money—completing the work at approximately one-third the cost of total replacement.

What does the Foundation intend to do with the Brummer Building long term?

• The Brummer Legacy Foundation's long-term vision for the Brummer Building is to establish and inspire a sustainable economic model for downtown revitalization. 

• With the ground-level retail spaces having completed restoration, the foundation is able lease the spaces to businesses that contribute to the vibrancy and success of downtown Cherokee.

• As the second and third floors are restored, the Foundation looks to create a communal hub for individuals and businesses to gather.

How is income generated from the property utilized? 

As a dedicated non-profit organization, the Brummer Legacy Foundation operates with a strict commitment to reinvesting all generated income directly into the historic Brummer Building.

Financial Stewardship: All income is currently allocated to essential restoration efforts. Upon completion, funds will pivot to cover ongoing maintenance, necessary repairs, and future improvements.

Volunteer Leadership: Our Board and Advisory members serve as unpaid volunteers, ensuring that resources are maximized for the building's benefit.

Vision for Sustainability: The Foundation's long-term goal is to make the Brummer Block financially self-sustaining, eliminating reliance on external fundraising. Any potential future budget surplus will be directed by the Board to support the rehabilitation and restoration of other vital downtown buildings.

This commitment guarantees the Brummer Building remains a beautiful, functional, and integral part of the downtown community for generations.