Cooperative Capital Campaign
Where Kentucky history began and now today, continues for a sustainable future!
Unify Cooperative: Transforming the Indian Fort Outpost into an Active Community Hub
Standing proudly at 2036 Big Hill Road, a hidden gem awaits a challenging transformation into a cultural landmark. This historic property, known as the Indian Fort Outpost, holds the whispers of the past and the promise of a vibrant future as a remote community center based on the inspiration of Alex Sipple of the Berea Tourism Council. The property is located directly in front of the Indian Fort Theater. Unify Cooperative envisions this as our primary local anchor, a place where nature, history, and community are beautifully intertwined.
Reclaiming a Forgotten Legacy
The .73-acre land parcel has been sitting undisturbed for over two decades. While Mother Nature has taken her course, transforming the space into a verdant mini-forest, a deeper purpose awaits. We honor the existing ecosystem by carefully integrating it into our preliminary plan. This approach allows us to achieve our goal of a sustainable green economy and transform this space into a local landmark. We see this not as an obstacle, but as a foundation upon which a thriving ecological oasis can be built and integrated as our capital campaign which is expected to last 12 to 18 months, until May 23, 2025 which is the 250th anniversary of the founding of the first American democracy in Kentucky by Colonel Daniel Boone with the Transylvania Company in 1775 under a tree. Members of the local community are thrilled with the potential of this ambitious project which now under development.
A Multi-Faceted Community Hub
The future of 2036 Big Hill Road is brimming with possibilities. Here's a glimpse into what awaits:
Ecological Oasis: Imagine strolling through a carefully curated landscape that celebrates native flora by local community garden enthusiasts. Walking paths will weave through the existing trees, creating a space for quiet reflection and environmental education.
Arts & Crafts Gallery: Local artisans will have a platform to showcase their talents. This gallery will be a vibrant hub for creativity, fostering cultural exchange and economic opportunity.
Museum: The rich history of the Indian Fort Outpost and the surrounding area will be brought to life through interactive exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can delve into the region's heritage and appreciate the significance of this location.
Meeting House: Inspired by the Quaker tradition of community gathering spaces, a welcoming meeting house will be a cornerstone of the project. This multipurpose space will foster collaboration, host educational workshops, and provide a platform for community events.
Symbolic Teepee: Although the Indigenous natives of the region 2,000 to 3,000 years ago were mound builders and the subsequent Indigenous tribes who were the Cherokee and the Shawnee built other structural archetypes, the Teepee was selected to symbolically represent the Indigenous legacy of the Transylvania Purchase from the Cherokee which historically claimed the territory to the first government of Kentucky in 1775. The Native American teepee is highly symbolic and quickly recognized by Americans today.
Building a Legacy, Together with Unify
Unify Cooperative is a member-owned organization, and this project reflects that spirit. We envision a space co-created with the community. Here's how you can be a part of this exciting journey:
Volunteer Workforce: We invite skilled and enthusiastic individuals to lend a hand in transforming the landscape, constructing the meeting house, and setting up the museum and gallery.
Local Sponsorships: Businesses and organizations that share our vision for sustainability and community engagement can become sponsors. Their contributions will be instrumental in making this project a reality.
Membership: Become a member-owner of Unify Cooperative and have a direct say in the future of this project and our activities.
A Call for Community Action
The transformation of 2036 Big Hill Road is more than just a construction project; it's an opportunity to create a landmark for Berea and a beacon of sustainability, culture, and community spirit. Together, through mindful planning, dedicated effort, and the collective energy of our community, we can transform this plot of land into a vibrant hub that will serve residents and visitors for generations to come. Join us in making our history come alive, one step, one volunteer hour, one donation at a time, one new owner at a time. Let's sculpt a future where nature thrives, history is celebrated, and community flourishes at the Indian Fort Outpost part of the legacy of Col. Daniel Boone and the legendary Transylvania Company.