Looking back at 2024 it has been a year of surprises and great opportunities.

Because of the significant work happening at the A-frame there was not the usual coming and going of poets and writers but, as reported in earlier newsletters, we did organize a number of events locally and online including workshops, readings, literary walks and a song-writing workshop.

But our focus has been the Foundation Project at the A-frame. You will recall that the Purdys built on the flood plain and that over the years moisture had taken a toll so the decision was made to raise the house and put a proper foundation under to preserve the building. Our most ambitious fundraising campaign was launched with a target of $300,000.

After we successfully raised a good portion of that target, and with discussions with the contractor, we realized that raising the house would also create the opportunity to winterize and thereby extend our season. The fundraising target was revised to $330,000, a goal that was met (with some pledges) in spring 2024 and work began in July. Up, up it went.

The Flying A-frame

And the writing shed also soars

Then the next opportunity was revealed. With the house raised there was the option, instead of a 1.5M crawlspace (the original plan), to create a full basement that once finished would be useable. Double the floorspace.

We reviewed the implications and the budget. Double the space and double the residency season. How could we say no? The commitment was made and the basement was created.

The A-frame on its new foundation

New basement

Work will be ongoing through April 2025 and the new basement will have as much finishing as our budget allows. Some things—for example, cabinetry, archival storage space—may need to be deferred until a later date when funds become available.

If you make end of the year donations, please consider the A-frame. As you can see in the photos, the building is now on its new foundation so the place will be dry and protected for years to come. But we still need to raise funds to finish that newly-acquired basement.

Windows in, and the start of the upper tier of the new deck

Sometimes people make donations to note an important event. Recently many have donated in Celebration of Eurithe Purdy’s 100th birthday. Since the announcement of the Steven Heighton Fellowship donations have been made in his memory. That guy was much loved.

Or you could make a donation in Celebration of Al Purdy’s birthdate, December 30, 1918.

In times of turmoil we need the Arts more than ever.

Thanks for your interest and support.

Donate: Support the Al Purdy A-frame Association

Merry Christmas! Hanukkah Sameach! Joyous Kwanzaa! Blessed Yule! Happy Boxing Day! Dōngzhì Kuàilè! Feliz Navidad! Yoi Otoshi o! Feliz Día de Reyes!

HAPPY NEW YEAR