2009 has seen several improvements made to Eastman Lodge as part of CEDA’s ongoing effort to restore the building. Finishing touches have been made to the kitchen area, including the installation of trim and electrical fixtures. Other electrical work done in the building included the addition of lighting and a ceiling fan to the front “office” room. Several historic light fixtures, including those on the back porch, received a face lift, thanks to Terry Tinsley who stripped and polished the brass shades and John Jennison who sandblasted and powder-coated the fixtures. More trees and brush have been removed from the tree line around the lodge, and the area which was dug up for a leach field has been roto-tilled and seeded.
Anyone who has ever weeded or stubbed their toes on the stone walkway surrounding Eastman Lodge will appreciate the latest step in the renovation process. Improving the walkway and making the building wheelchair accessible has been a goal since CEDA began the restoration project. This spring, with help from long-time Eastman supporter Gary Sheets, CEDA removed all of the limestone rock that made up the walkway in front of the lodge. The first week of June saw a new stamped and tinted concrete walkway poured by Coffey Concrete Construction of Fort Madison. The new walkway runs from the driveway to the front porch and around the building to the back porch. The new section of the front porch was raised to meet the existing pad, creating a barrier free access to the interior. Generous donations to the Camp Eastman Development Association paid the $4,600 cost of the project.
