Chesterville’s historic Meeting House: A community center success

CHESTERVILLE – A June 12 fund-raiser concert at the Chesterville Center Union Meeting House was a spectacular success, according to organizers, with a full house and a total income of over $500. The event featured local musicians Ellie Buckland, Mali Obamsawin, and Southern Maine native Isa Burke performing as The Wiles on guitar, fiddle and acoustic bass, and enchanting the diverse audience as their crystal harmonies rang though the hall.

The Board of Directors of the non-profit Meeting House corporation stages a similar concert annually to raise operating funds for the work of developing the historic building into a community center for area residents. Each year local musicians contribute their time and talent to perform for the occasion, an act that serves to demonstrate to the public that the Meeting House is not just a great cause, but also a quality venue for acoustic music and gatherings.

Last month, Meeting House supporters collaborated with the Chesterville Cooperative Extension Homemakers, the Chesterville Heritage Society, and members of the community to honor Chesterville veterans, service men and women and their families. The Chesterville War Memorial Honor Day event was attended by local community members as well as family members from throughout Maine and New England.

Efforts to revitalize the 1851 Meeting House have been in progress since 2010, bolstered by grants and volunteer efforts which are currently enabling the addition of a bathroom, ADA compliant accessibility ramp and accessibility parking. Plans are also taking shape for the addition of a heating system and needed roof maintenance. A recent $3,000 grant from the Maine Community Foundation will help complete accessibility improvements and will provide programming funds.

Community members can see a list of upcoming events at the Meeting House at www.chestervillemeetinghouse.org. For more information about Meeting House, call Paul or Cynthia at 778-3513.