FARMINGTON – The Farmington Historical Society will discuss the North Church restoration at its next meeting Monday, Nov. 8, at Henderson Memorial Baptist Church. A potluck dinner begins at 6 p.m. and the presentation begins at 7 p.m.
The North Church building at High and Court streets is owned and maintained by the Farmington Historical Society and is in need of restoration. A presentation and discussion will take place at Monday’s meeting regarding the possibility of moving forward with a major restoration effort.
The church is in the nationally designated historic district and was built in 1873 for the Unitarian congregation. The upstairs retains the original pews with wrought iron holders, an organ and stained glass window.
Services were held there until about 1930, then the building was maintained by the Women’s Alliance. It raised funds by holding an annual May Fair, which included selling ice cream and strawberries, until about 1945. The building became the home of the Historical Society in 1971. The North Church along with the Titcomb House on Academy Street now house a collection of artifacts, information and Farmington history.
The building has been closed for several years due to moisture that has caused severe warping of the first floor. Many community groups had used the church for meeting space up until the time of its closing. The Farmington Historical Society has invested $13,000 in drainage improvements around the foundation, but recognizes that much more work needs to be done.
A restored building would allow a place for special historic programming, exhibits, lectures for students of all ages, community members and visitors.
It would also provide meeting space and enhance the historic downtown.
The Farmington Historical Society welcomes new members as well as those interested in the presentation and discussion on the restoration of the North Church.
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