Kay Hewins had a vision for her corner of Doniphan County when she and her husband bought an abandoned building off U.S. Highway 36.
Last year, the couple took ownership of the old Bob’s Bargain Barn, a former thrift store that closed in 2011. After months of renovations, Hewins opened Glacial Hills Venue.
“I have always wanted this building and never told anyone, not even my husband,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to put something like this venue in here. Because there’s nothing over here in Doniphan County except for community buildings and they have one look and people may want a different look.” The large storefront facade is now a nice welcome sign to the small town.
The venue accommodates more than 200 people. The site’s first wedding and reception was on Aug. 24.
In the spring, Hewins would like her venue to be a spot for local farmers markets.
“I just want to make it something the community can use,” she said. “And I can pay the electric bill. I’m not going to gouge people.”
(Read more: Atchison Globe Now)