The Mower County Historical Society will be participating in the annual Give to the Max Day on Thursday, Nov. 15. The historical society will use the online event’s donations to rebuild the Excelsior School bell tower.

Recently during a roofing project on the school, the contractor notified the historical society that the bell tower had been weakened by split boards and dry rot. It is estimated that up to $1,500 will be needed to complete the work, which includes rental of a lift to safely remove the bell, and reconstruction.

To make an online donation using a credit or debit card, go to the “Help Rebuild the Excelsior School Bell Tower” fundraising page at givemn.org and make a donation. As part of the Give to the Max Day event, one donor each hour will be randomly selected to have their donation matched with a $1,000 gift. There are also prizes for having the most unique donors and total funds raised.

Donations will also be accepted at the historical society by cash or check, but those will not be eligible to be counted towards the online event totals.