Blog

Save the Biddeford Meetinghouse

Save the Biddeford Meetinghouse

Posted by Admin, June 2, 2017

Biddeford’s most valuable treasure is crumbling. The historic Biddeford Meetinghouse is falling apart. Back in 1840, the top floor of this 1759 structure was raised and the building was put on a bed of granite rubble. This granite rubble has served as a foundation for 177 years, but has only a few years left. The building was given a new roof back in the 1970s, but this roof is a dire need of repair.

Our beautiful meetinghouse is a regal reminder to when our country was going through the transition from a colony to independence. Back in 1776, the entire town proudly gathered to hear the reading of the Declaration of Independence. During the emotional upheaval of the Civil War, it was here at soldiers congregated and it was here in 1867 that some of these same soldiers came to have their photos taken.

Our Biddeford ancestors sat in these pews, listened to announcements of births and deaths, arbitrated legal and religious issues. They celebrated the seasons here and bent their heads in prayer. Our Biddeford great, Jeremiah Hill, came to this very meetinghouse to stand up for his right of free speech and thought when he was tried for heresy.

Please help us to bring this beautiful structure – so central to our history – back to life. Save the historic meetinghouse before it is too late.

In the next 6 months, we will be having events to support our capital campaign to #SavetheBiddefordMeetinghouse. Support this worthy cause. Contribute Now.

Become a Member!

Become a Member!

It is simple to become a member or to renew. Choose the level of membership that meets your needs, and gain access to our amazing events and collections.

If you aren't interested in becoming a member, we welcome donations as well.

JOIN NOW