At a recent Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund (WCTF) board meeting, the Salt River Arts Society received a $50,000 grant to assist with the replacement and rebuilding of the historic Ford Theater’s façade.

As Mayor Jeff Jensen noted in his support letter, “The Ford Theatre, located at 444 Washington Street in Afton, Wyoming, is a historic and iconic landmark of the downtown area. For many years, the theater sat vacant and deteriorating. Now this once-neglected building is being revitalized into a vibrant community space.”

The community has voted on the new façade, and it will recreate the original Art Deco façade for this 1935 building and include the recreation of the marquee sign that was originally on the building. After years of fundraising and the recent WCTF grant, renovations to the façade can now begin.

“We’re working on getting plans drawn up and get some estimates but it looks like we have enough to do the front with some nicer materials but make it closer to the mock-up we have,” said James Arbizu. “That old-school really beautiful building with the overhang and good signage with that art deco style.”

The rehabilitation of the Ford Theatre has received fantastic support from the community. Not only have the City Council and Mayor supported this effort, but local donors Sheldon and Mary Herbert have contributed significantly to this project. Additionally, the local hardware store is donating materials or providing significant discounts, and many people have volunteered their time to this effort. Even construction and equipment companies are providing discounts.

Everyone in town wants to see this rehabilitation bring this long-loved theatre back to life.

“We need the engineer plans so we know what kinds of materials we need and what our options are,” Arbizu added. “There’s a chance we get something in before the snow flies but we are looking at spring to maybe get the first construction on it. That’s the plan right now.”

The Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund (WCTF) was established by the Wyoming Legislature in 1998 to recognize and support the state’s rich cultural heritage. Administered by a five-member board appointed by the Governor, the Trust Fund provides grant funding for innovative projects and events that promote, preserve, and protect Wyoming’s arts, history, and cultural resources. Through its grant programs, the WCTF invests in communities across the state, enhancing quality of life, supporting creative industries, and ensuring that Wyoming’s unique stories and traditions are passed on to future generations.

For more information about the Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund and its grant programs, visit wyoculturaltrust.com.