BREAKING: Dispute Erupts Over Funds Raised for Columbia Market House Jail Cell Restoration
Columbia, PA — February 3, 2026
A public dispute has erupted in Columbia following a series of Facebook posts by local historian and event organizer Rick Fisher, who alleges that thousands of dollars raised for the restoration of the historic jail cells beneath the Columbia Market House were never released for their intended purpose.
The allegations center on funds raised during a series of public lectures held in October 2024, which were promoted as a benefit for restoring the Market House jail cells—often referred to as the “dungeons.” According to Fisher, the events were organized in cooperation with the Columbia Historical Preservation Society (CHPS) and drew hundreds of attendees.
In multiple posts made public this week, Fisher claims he was told by Chris Vera, then associated with CHPS, that more than $4,000 had been raised. Fisher states that approximately $1,120 was spent on new lighting for the jail cells, leaving a remaining balance of roughly $2,300 designated for restoration work.
Fisher says plans were in place to complete at least one jail cell floor, and a contractor was prepared to begin work. However, when the contractor contacted CHPS to access the funds, Fisher claims they were told the money could not be released until January 9, 2025. After that date passed, Fisher alleges repeated attempts to contact CHPS leadership went unanswered.
According to Fisher’s posts, subsequent inquiries directed to Jerry Wasche, identified as a CHPS vice president, failed to resolve the issue. Fisher claims the funds have now been held for more than a year and that CHPS may intend to retain the money for other purposes.
“The money was raised for the dungeons—not for CHPS operations,” Fisher wrote. “Tell that to the couple hundred people who attended the lectures.”
Fisher further alleges that at least two individual donors each contributed $500, believing their donations would directly support the jail cell restoration project.
In a private message exchange later shared publicly, Fisher claims Wasche challenged him to “prove” the funds were designated specifically for the dungeon restoration and suggested the organization might retain the money due to its own repair needs. Fisher states he threatened legal action, asserting the funds were misused, though no lawsuit has been filed as of this publication.
The situation escalated further when Fisher accused CHPS of broader financial and operational issues, including claims that museum items were inadequately cataloged and that some donated artifacts were sold online. These claims have not been independently verified.
Fisher also referenced his long-standing involvement in local events, including founding the Albatwitch Festival, which he says was created in part to support historical preservation efforts in Columbia. He alleges the festival was later moved as a form of retaliation connected to borough disputes, though he announced plans to bring a version of the festival back to Columbia in the future.
As of publication time, the Columbia Historical Preservation Society has not publicly responded to Fisher’s allegations. Attempts by community members, according to Fisher, to obtain clarification regarding the funds have reportedly been unsuccessful.
No criminal charges have been filed, and no official investigation has been announced. Borough officials have not issued a statement.
The controversy has sparked significant discussion among residents, donors, and preservation advocates, many of whom attended the original lectures or contributed financially.
This remains a developing story. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available or if CHPS or borough officials issue a formal response.
