As April 2009 is upon us, looking back just one year to April of 2008 was the marking of tenth year of the dedication of the new expansion. Dedication of the new building was April 26, 1998.

Here is some of the time line:
1994 Mission Study
1995 Expansion needs task force to explore facilities needs
January 1996 Congregation approves expansion needs and votes to proceed, hires architect
April 1996 Congregation votes to expand; plans for capital fund campaign and engages
architect
January 1997 Congregation begins a capital fund campaign
June 1997 Congregation votes to proceed, estimated cost 1.3 million
July 1977 Construction begins
February 3, 1998 Church receives Certificate of Occupancy
April 26, 1998 Dedication

The original structure, 2,400 square feet, was expanded by an additional 6,300 square feet.

More Facts:
• First Parish House’s roof collapsed Sunday, February 1, 1948.
• New Hall started in 1948 – 1949 and finished in 1950. There is a picture posted on the History Bulletin Board. Most of the labor on this building was done by members of the church.
• Another addition added an education/office building in 1956; further addition to C.E. building in 1961.
• Picture and information is posted on bulletin board with regards to the 1997 expansion. Some newspaper articles and pictures that members took.

I will look into the war years of the 1940’s and how it involves the church. Remember, “The only thing new in the church is the history you don’t know.”

Dick Hunter