Historians launch fundraising campaign for meetinghouse
The first house of worship in Jamestown will undergo improvements to preserve the National Historic Landmark for future generations.
The Conanicut Friends Meetinghouse, at the corner of North Road and Weeden Lane, was built in 1786. According to the Jamestown Historical Society, which owns and maintains the property, these efforts will ensure the building can open more frequently to the public.
Donations are being sought for this “major restoration.”
In the first phase of the project, the 650-square-foot building will be lifted and temporarily relocated so contractors can assess and repair the structural elements underneath. A waterproof foundation and drainage will be installed before the building is returned to its original position.
The windows, doors, shutters and interior plaster will be restored during the second phase, and the trim will be repaired and painted. Restoration professionals will be employed to do the work. Finally, the site will be landscaped to be appropriate for a late 1700’s structure. The shingled exterior and roof do not need to be replaced at this point, the historical society said.
The nonprofit society is mounting a fundraising campaign with a goal of $500,000 to cover the costs of the restoration since grants will not cover the entire cost. Donations also will help establish an endowment to pay for future maintenance.
Donations can be made online at jhsri.org or by sending a check to the Jamestown Historical Society to P.O. Box 156, Jamestown, RI 02835. People interested in donating securities, such as stocks and bonds, can e-mail info@jhsri.org for more information.
