Policy: Use of P&HS buildings by non-affiliated groups The Guidelines below reflect the following values and principles regarding the use of the Dr. Increase Mathews House and the Stone Academy:  Protection of the buildings and artifacts is an important prerequisite for all activities.  The nature of events and activities that take place in the buildings should be consistent with the purpose of the Pioneer and Historical Society of Muskingum County.  Our museums are operated and maintained as a service to our community. Use by nonaffiliated groups should be consistent with this principle.  It is not our desire to use the buildings to generate income unrelated to the purpose of the organization.  Any guidelines established for non-affiliated groups do not in any way limit what P&HS does in its own buildings. The authority to allow non-affiliated groups to use the Stone Academy rests solely with the Board of Trustees of the Pioneer and Historical Society of Muskingum County. The following guidelines and procedures should be followed when requesting such use. 1. A written application is required. Applications must be submitted to the Director at least 45 days prior to the event. 2. The applicant must assume full responsibility for any damage to the facilities that may occur during use. 3. Light refreshments are permitted. 4. Smoking is not permitted in the building, or on the grounds of the Stone Academy. 5. The maximum capacity is 45; 35 when refreshments are provided. 6. Activities and events held in the building must be consistent with the purpose of the P&HS, be educational or cultural in nature, and of benefit to the community. 7. A fee of $50.00 for the first hour and $25.00 for each additional hour of use, is payable the day of the event. This fee covers various costs associated with operating the building – utilities, cleaning, supplies, set-up, and personnel. Fees may be waived or reduced if the Historical Society is a co-sponsor of the event or activity. 8. Applications will be considered by the Board at their next scheduled meeting. Applicants will be notified of the Board’s decision in five business days. 9. The Historical Society, and the applicant, retains the right to cancel a reservation. Notification of cancellations should be made in a timely manner.