Belko (Franklinville Mill)
History
A mill operated here in the early 19th century (and likely before) and the main structure was destroyed by fire in 1881. The major part of the present building was constructed after that fire and added onto over the years. Originally, cotton canvas ("duck") was made here. Later, it was owned by the Oak Tire and Rubber Company, In 1954, Belko Corporation purchased the property and made such things as lacrosse balls and turkey baster bulbs. Axil Corporation bought the property in 2001 and closed it shortly after that.
Present
In 2006, three buildings were placed on the County's Landmarks list, which provides a measure of protection from demolition and requires the owner to maintain the buildings, in order to prevent "demolition by neglect". There have been several fires at the site which, luckily, the Kingsville Volunteer Fire Company was able to contain. There is a fear that a large fire at the mill would destroy several nearby houses, thus, there is a push to resolve this problem.
Cleanup
Due to the presence of oil in the ground, Axil Corporation has employed Brownfields Associates, Inc to "decommission" the site, that is, to properly remove contaminants. A report was provided to the GKCA at its annual meeting on September 12, 2011.
The following are links to several lengthy reports for those who want all the details:
Future
The GKCA will be examining potential future uses of this facility that would be consistent with the area and that would allow the historic buildings to be saved. Without a good use, they will deteriorate and eventually will need to be demolished. If no viable use can be found in the near-term, there will likely be a recommendation to tear the buildings down to eliminate the fire hazard to nearby houses. Anyone interested in this effort can join the GKCA discussions on the subject.
|