CHARLESTON, Ill. (WCIA) — Charleston’s Brown Shoe Company building is slowly being renovated by a YouTuber.
Chris Martin is a key member of the YouTube channel Brick and Sole, which is dedicated to transforming an old factory into a vibrant concert and wedding venue. The channel boasts over 75,000 followers and has produced 200 videos.
“The Brown Shoe is like a monumental structure here in Charleston,” Martin stated. “It has been a significant part of my childhood. My grandfather and I used to pass by it every day when I was young.”
When he first bought the building three years ago for $20,000, years of neglect had created a mess.
“When we first got the place, you could barely squeeze through here,” Martin said.
Now, some rooms are spotless. Others, not so much. So, Martin occasionally asks for help from his followers with the task.
“We have a volunteer day today, people from all over the country, as far as Florida, West Coast, Pennsylvania,” Martin said.
For some of the volunteers who lent a helping hand Saturday, the mission is a personal matter.
Sharon Reed Marvel’s father worked for the factory for years, and worked his way up from the cutting room to superintendent.
“This has deeply resonated with me for many years,” Marvel expressed. “When I learned that someone wanted to renovate the space, I was thrilled, even though I’m not fully aware of his entire plan. It means a lot to me and my sister, Jody, because we were always proud of our father.”
Right now, Martin and volunteers are just working on clearing stuff out to get back to a blank slate.
Once the project is finalized, Martin aims to initially open a venue space to generate revenue before unveiling the remaining areas. Future plans could also see the addition of an antiques showroom and a makerspace.
Martin said he hopes to start opening in 18 months.
