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16most of the current flowed through four race channels u n d e r n e a t h the building, then returned to the canal. But some of the water was retained and was used for steam generation.In the 1950s, the Roots Division of Dresser Industries, Inc. purchased the site to produce and repair wooden patterns for its foundry. The building is now owned, and being restored, by the Community Education Coalition, Inc. for its own offices, and rental space for other organizations.When I photographed the structure, most of the exterior restoration had been completed%u2014the brickwork was repaired, a new roof was in place, and 330 small-paned windows had been fixed or replaced. Inside, the interior had been cleaned out, but not yet refurbished. I admired the massive wooden beams and joists. The first floor columns (right) were especially sturdy so they could support all the loads on the upper floors. As I ascended the well-worn stairs, and finally reached the sixth story, I was immediately drawn to a window%u2014and a spectacular view below.From the Canal EraWhen I visited the Connersville Furniture Co., I was impressed. It was an imposing six-story building%u201450 feet by 150 feet. First opened for business in 1882, a five-story factory was soon added, as well as a pair of five-story additions. The company produced black-walnut bedroom furniture. Later, other lines were added, with some constructed of imported woods. Today, only the original red-brick structure remains. The nearby Whitewater Canal was a cheap and handy energy source for the plant. Water diverted from a nearby basin turned a large paddle wheel to power the factory. After passing over the wheel, Connersville Furniture Co. (Stairs.)Connersville%u2014Fayette Co. (733.07)Connersville Furniture Co., Connersville%u2014Fayette Co. (733.12)