Endangered Properties in the Hollis-Buxton Area
We note two endangered properties as historic preservation opportunities in our towns
One is the Odd Fellows Hall in West Buxton, Hollis side. It is an 1875 building and was the village community center for many years with a busy stage and hall on the first floor. It is a wonderful large space, both upstairs in the old lodge hall and downstairs, which has tin walls and ceiling. The limitations come from the small lot size. It has been used for storage in recent years, but needs a better use to support it. Possible options discussed are conversion to residential units or removal from the site. Please contact the owner, Alice Dunn, at 780-0634 if you have interest or proposals.
The other property is the Bear Hill Church on Bear Hill Road in Hollis. It is an 1840 building built as a union church and remodeled in 1903. The interior is still in good shape for church services. The exterior appears as original, but some sill work is needed. Limitations include a small lot and no water or septic at this time.
There is an active group working to preserve the building. Their initial challenge, as it is for all historic buildings, is to determine a sustaining and self-supporting use, as the use drives the improvements and fundraising. If you are interested or can help in any way, please contact Anne Hannaford for more information at 939-8678.
There is an active group working to preserve the building. Their initial challenge, as it is for all historic buildings, is to determine a sustaining and self-supporting use, as the use drives the improvements and fundraising. If you are interested or can help in any way, please contact Anne Hannaford for more information at 939-8678.