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Ravenswood parks seek funds to restore Sayre Log Cabin; McIntosh Memorial Park demolition remains on hold
Summary
Park leaders reported donor commitments and a county grant toward an estimated $57,000 Sayre Log Cabin restoration and reminded council that McIntosh Memorial Park is restricted by a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant and a 1934 deed, delaying demolition plans.
Park and recreation leaders told the Ravenswood Common Council on May 19 that fundraising and grant work are under way to repair the historic Sayre Log Cabin and that McIntosh Memorial Park remains constrained by deed and federal-grant restrictions.
Sayre Log Cabin The council heard that the Sayre Log Cabin needs substantial repair; a worst-case restoration estimate to replace the north wall and roof was presented at about $57,000. The Jackson County Commission has awarded $20,000 to pay for Phase One roof replacement, and meeting materials or public comments referenced two donor commitments — an anonymous donor willing to pledge $16,000 in matching funds and another donor pledging $7,500 — which reduce the remaining funding gap to roughly $13,000. Meeting materials note a fundraising strategy that includes donor outreach, a promotional commercial, a benefit concert and online giving options established through the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation to ensure transparent handling of contributions.
McIntosh Memorial Park Parks staff reiterated that McIntosh Memorial Park can only be used for outdoor recreation because of an LWCF grant restriction and a deed restriction dating to 1934; those legal constraints mean demolition and redevelopment options are limited and any repurposing would require federal approval. The council has put a demolition decision on hold while those restrictions and long-term plans are considered. Parks staff also suggested potential reuse of stone work and discussed the possibility of adding recreational amenities such as pickleball courts if demolition proceeds and legal requirements permit.
Other parks updates Staff reported the municipal pool would open May 23 (staffed; free opening day) and summarized campground and marina planning, including proposals to add sites on the lagoon side and a quoted $2,700 cost for a locking access gate for new docks. The Board of Parks and Recreation introduced its seven commissioners and asked the council to appoint a council liaison to improve communication.
What to watch Fundraising progress for the Sayre Log Cabin, the status of donor approvals to redirect existing McIntosh-related donations, and any federal approvals required under LWCF rules will determine the next steps for both properties. The transcript shows planned fundraising and an established foundation account, but the council did not appropriate the full restoration cost at this meeting.
(Reporting based on the May 19, 2026 Ravenswood Common Council meeting transcript.)
