Todd County’s Historic Green River Academy restoration efforts continue – with the help of one Elkton native.
Jim Colbridge of Elkton grew up just a few blocks away from the Green River Academy building. Now, based in Franklin, Tennessee, the project manager regularly contributes his expertise and connection to the historic site, sourcing skilled artisans and craftsmen capable of historically accurate work, securing bids and coordinating logistics regarding the building’s detailed architecture.
Colbridge, whom the Green River Academy Preservation Society deems “a Jim of all trades,” was later reintroduced to the building when searching for historic Todd County homes, and the moldings, lintels and other historic pieces of architecture stuck with him.
The Preservation Society writes Colbridge was instrumental in various projects, from replacing the building’s signature demi-lune, semicircular window, to the electrification of the site, which will restore electricity to the Academy for the first time since 2008.
The society adds they are profoundly grateful for Coldbridge’s leadership, generosity and friendship. They write, “His work reminds us that historic preservation is not only about bricks and mortar; it is about neighbors, memory, and the willingness to step forward when their community calls.”
