Restoration

Restoration of the Cooley House began with the roof in July of 2008, and continues today. Once restored, the home will be opened to the public.

The Cooley House is one of several historic homes, including the Masur Museum of Art and Layton Castle, along South Grand Street. This rare example of Prairie style architecture contributes to the cultural corridor along the Ouachita River from The Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, past the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, and south to the Masur Museum of Art.

Restoration of the roof was carried out with the support of the Division of Historic Preservation, Office of Cultural Development, Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, and the National Park Service, U. S. Department of the Interior. Restoration of this property, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, has been funded with the assistance of a matching grant-in-aid from the Department of the Interior, National Park Service, under the provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.

Operational Partnership

The Cooley House will operate as a partnership between The Cooley House Foundation and the City of Monroe. The City of Monroe owns the property and will provides on-going maintenance of the grounds. The Cooley House Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is raising funds for the restoration of the home and gardens and will provide on-going support for exhibitions and educational programs.

Programming

The Cooley House Foundation hosts tours each year focusing on the architectural history of the area. Our Fall Lecture Series is a free event where scholars discuss topics related to architecture, architectural history, Prairie style architecture and other similar interests.

Phase 1Waterproofing and Code Enhancements

This phase stabilized the building, including replacement of the roof, service of mechanical equipment, replacement of lighting, and repair to sidewalks and parking. It also provided for new security and fire systems. Finally, it repaired severely damaged finishes such as the original cork floor.

Phase 2Restoration

This phase will restore interior walls, floors, ceilings, as well as millwork, woodwork, and masonry. It will also repair the electrical and plumbing systems and will install appropriate HVAC systems. Restoration will include interior and exterior.

During this phase restoration of the house can serve as a learning project for area universities as well as the general public.

Phase 3
Enhancements

Historic photographs show the home’s original gardens and furnishings. The Cooley House Foundation plans to restore the gardens to their original state and to work toward refurnishing the home.