The recent installation of 26 new windows in a major renovation of the Beaverdams Church in Thorold means new opportunities.
The new windows to be installed this spring are exact replicas of the originals from the building constructed in 1832. When the Friends of the Beaverdams Church became a corporation in 2013 the group decided that historical accuracy would be a priority because of the enormous tourist potential and the educational possibilities that will always exist, according to David Cowan, President of the group.
The new windows can be seen from the street, and have raised interest in the total project. The next phase of the renovation will turn to the replacement of wooden siding, which is slated for 2019.
“The rate of progress depends on the amount of money we are able to raise during any given year, plus the fact that heritage projects automatically bring surprises that tradespeople have to solve almost daily, making end dates hard to predict,” said Cowan
New siding for the historic building will cost approximately $90,000.00 based on an estimated $20,000.00 for the product and $70,000.00 for the installation which will include the removal of the present clapboards. Both prices are the lowest tender’s estimates. The wood siding will be pre-painted and have a 50 year warranty against decay.
Since purchasing the building and cemetery from the City of Thorold in 2014, The Friends of the Beaverdams Church have already raised $85,000.00 for the foundation replacement of last year, and $50,000.00 for the windows, as well as a roof in 2015 and an archaeological study in 2016.
“That progress is what keeps the membership energized and enthusiastic, and we look forward to the next step. The community support has been most helpful,” said Cowan.
The completion of the siding project with the related trim details will finish the exterior restoration of the building and he promises it will look spectacular.
“At that point we will go inside and restore the gallery to its original state, complete with elliptical ceiling visible from the first floor pews. We will remove the false ceiling that has been blocking that view, while preserving the multi-purpose nature of the interior that was re-designed in 1880,” he said.
Although the building is not yet ready for many public functions because the place can become a construction zone at any given time, the group have scheduled a few events:
- May 6: How Great Thou Art luncheon & art show at Club Capri
- June 3: Trinity United Church annual Beaverdams anniversary service at Beaverdams Church;
- June 16: Annual yard sale in the church yard
For more information visit Friendsofbeaverdamschurch.com.