RIPLEY- Ripley Main Street Association and the Historic Preservation Commission of Ripley announced this week plans to showcase a number of houses and buildings located in Ripley’s downtown area designated as Ripley’s Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ripley Main Street Director Libbi Bryant-Bennett and the Historic Preservation Commission President Josh Behm have planned an open house on Sunday, Sept 30, from 1 to 4 p.m.to give residents and visitors an opportunity to see several recently renovated homes and businesses, and see”to be renovated” homes that are for sale, all in the Historic District.

Said Bennett,” Our objective is to hold the open house to encourage visitors to invest in Ripley by purchasing distressed property for the purpose of renovation. We have planned contractors, craftsmen, and preservation specialists to be available for questions and suggestions. Tickets will be $10 with proceeds going to HPC and RMSA for a renovation project.”

A map will be available, and approximately 12 houses will be on the tour. Also many previously renovated homes in the area will be visable to show touring visitors how a large number of existing renovated and restored homes reveal how Ripley home owners are saving the early residential area and preserving the city’s early lifestyle.

Historic Preservation Commission President Josh Behm said,” This is an exciting project. I am thrilled to be involved with it and other events for the City of Ripley. I plan to see the area, so well based on its history, grow and hope more people will become involved with the local architectural history.”

Commission President Behm and his wife Elizabeth Reid Behm and baby daughter recently returned to the area.

The Ripley Main Street office is open with more information on the Renovation Open House. Melinda Marsalis is homeowner Chairman. Information forms for homeowners and Real Estate Agents wishing to participate are available

at the Main Street office. To reserve a ticket call 662-512-0226, or e-mail ripleymainstreet@dixie-net.com.