tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79060696097282498202024-03-13T13:16:45.878-04:00Readfield Union Meeting HouseFor those who have interest in or wish to support efforts to restore and preserve The Readfield Union Meeting House, a cultural landmark, for future generations of Readfield residents, Maine citizens and visitors from other states.UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-70296845491927937252015-02-04T12:22:00.000-05:002015-02-04T12:22:22.685-05:00 A short while ago the UMH reported that it wanted to restore its late 19th century organ. At that time there was one wedding booked for the spring and the Board wanted the bride and her groom to walk down the aisle to the sound of organ music. Now, there is a second reservation for another wedding in the fall, so that adds to the desire to have the organ in playable condition.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-st-YqisRZ40/VNJRUExMxoI/AAAAAAAAAr0/Os4lJVq5M7Q/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-st-YqisRZ40/VNJRUExMxoI/AAAAAAAAAr0/Os4lJVq5M7Q/s1600/001.jpg" height="320" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Built by the Chicago Cottage Organ Co. about 1890, this organ is original to the UMH. The restorer said it is of very high quality, has a greater range than most parlor organs and deserves to be preserved. "The case is especially fine", he says.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some welcome donations have come in from various friends and the Board felt secure enough that the remainder of the $1,500 restoration estimate would be forthcoming by spring that it contacted the restorer and he came and took the "guts" of the organ (the keyboard, reeds and wind chamber) off to his workshop in Port Clyde. He promises to bring everything back and to reassemble the organ in its black walnut case before the spring wedding.<br />
There is need, however, for more donations so that the full $1,500 will be on hand when the work is completed. You may send your donation to the "UMH Organ Fund" at 158 Thorp Shores, Readfield, Maine 04355.<br />
Membership renewals are coming in nicely as a result of the mailing that went out a few months ago. The Board thanks to all who have generously "re-upped", and thanks to a few new members. Apparently, the offer of a complimentary print of the UMH to those who signed on as a LIFE MEMBER ($250) was attractive to some individuals -- we have mailed out the print to several persons who have so responded. All gifts are welcome and will add to the amount the UMH can spend this year on the floor rebuilding. From an examination of the membership renewals it appears that many of you are increasing the amount of your membership gift. The UMH is most appreciative. <br />
At its last meeting the Board talked of different possibilities for summer programs. If you have suggestions please contact us. Are their concerts lectures, exhibits or other activities you would like to see at the Meeting House this summer? Drop us a postcard or e-mail us at: mpeladeau@roadrunner.com. If you are a local group looking for a venue for your talents to shine we'd appreciate your dropping us a line.UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-66387218178522198762014-02-21T10:55:00.002-05:002014-02-21T10:55:41.357-05:00MARCH 2014 Update
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">At the end of 2013 the
Union Meeting House sent out a mailing to all its members reminding them that
the 2013-14 membership year was half done and urging all to renew for the
current year. At the same time -- thanks to the kindness of Flo Drake and the
Board of the Readfield Historical Society -- a mailing was sent to all members
of the Society. It was undertaken since both the UMH and RHS have a shared
interest of preserving Readfield's history. The response was encouraging and a
number of new members were added to the UMH's rolls. Thank you all. Naturally,
the UMH will make its membership list available to the RHS.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A copy of the UMH newsletter that was mailed
in November is available to all who request it. Write or call at the address
below. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The UMH has seventeen windows and during the
past years the Board has been moving along in having them restored since they
had not received much attention for several decades. In February the restorer,
Joseph Caputo of East Pittston, who has done the restoration of all the windows
to date, took out the two in the apse. They were in rough condition, with
broken glass and severely eroded and weathered sashes. He will work on them
this winter and have them back in place this spring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">This restoration is made
possible by a most generous gift from Mrs. Nancy Durgin of Readfield. The Board
of the Meeting House thanks Nancy for stepping forward to fund the complete
rebuilding of these two windows. A memorial plaque will be placed on them this
spring. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Otherwise, the Meeting is buttoned up tight
for the winter. At its February meeting next week the Board will review what income
has been generated and discuss what projects it can afford to undertake this
year. A report on what is decided will be forthcoming in the next <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Messenger </i>column. In the meantime, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">think spring!<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Contact the UMH at
685-4537 or 158 Thorp Shores, Readfield.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-63702644896839695072013-11-28T06:57:00.002-05:002013-11-28T07:27:15.635-05:00Readfield History Walkers visit UMH<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vog2jS-4EE/Upcvbij-ybI/AAAAAAAAArM/AEAGGX1mfVU/s1600/UMH_history.walkers_11.22.13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vog2jS-4EE/Upcvbij-ybI/AAAAAAAAArM/AEAGGX1mfVU/s400/UMH_history.walkers_11.22.13.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twenty-three Readfield History Walkers visited Readfield Union House and<br />
also the adjacent UMH Vestry on November 22nd.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Union Meeting House directors were pleased to host the Readfield History Walkers on November 22nd. The group learned about the historical significance of the UMH building and of Charles Schumacher's trompe l'oiel artwork. They also enjoyed seeing other features inside UMH such as the stained glass and stenciled windows. Dale Potter Clark read an address given by Rev. Costello Weston on the 100th anniversary of UMH in 1928. The address included background information about the first 100 years of UMH and its 43 founders. Many of the building's structural and restorative challenges have been addressed - reported UMH secretary director Milton Wright. He was also pleased to announce that all but one stained glass window has been restored. A $1,000 donation is needed for that project. Wright also shared what other restorations and repairs have been identified and need to be addressed in the future as contributions and grants become available. History Walkers were given a tour of both the Union Meeting House and the adjacent vestry (aka John Smith Mansion house). There were 23 present - many had never seen the interior of UMH and / or the vestry and were pleased to do so. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Individuals or groups who wish to arrange for a tour of UMH should contact:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Marius Peladeau at (207) 685-4537.</div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-657755708784259842013-10-20T09:31:00.001-04:002013-10-20T09:36:20.747-04:00November 2013 Update<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">With approaching cold weather the Meeting
House is nearly all buttoned up for the winter. A couple of chores need to be
completed, hopefully in November. The good news is that the window restorer,
Joe Caputo of East Pittston, has finished his work on three more windows. The
Asa and Ursula Gile , and the Rev. Carpenter Smith stained glass windows
were<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>scraped, re-glazed, primed and painted
inside and out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2O-5kZ06NTc/UmPawMiuhuI/AAAAAAAAAq8/F-VQcgwagv8/s1600/tink.rolfe%234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2O-5kZ06NTc/UmPawMiuhuI/AAAAAAAAAq8/F-VQcgwagv8/s200/tink.rolfe%234.JPG" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Ernest "Tink" Rolfe was Readfield Fire Chief for 34 years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">He and his wife lived on the Winthrop Road across</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">from the old fire station.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The stenciled glass window that was
restored years ago in memory of Mr. and Mrs, Tink Rofle was showing signs of
aging and so it was repainted. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Everyone in Maine knows that anything made of
wood is never totally restored; it is an ongoing chore. New interior stops were
made to properly re-install it, something that had not been done at the time
the work was first undertaken. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">With<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>this work completed it means<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> that
only one large window and the two small windows in the apse</b> remain to be
done. Therefore,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>since 2010 - thanks to
the generosity of donors -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it has been
possible to <u>completely restore fourteen windows.</u> This is a significant
improvement and would not have been possible without the magnificent outpouring
of donor support. Thank you all for your continued interest in the UMH. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The Board did not move forward <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as much as was hoped on resolving the dampness
problem in the crawlspace and basement due to smaller than expected income from
the 2013-14 membership drive. Continuing to work on this problem will be the
first order of business in 2014. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you have not renewed your membership, or
wish to give an additional donation before the end of the 2013 tax year, the
Board would welcome your support.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The UMH wishes everyone a happy Thanksgiving
holiday.</span> </span></div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-9845780694785241282013-08-28T09:58:00.000-04:002013-09-01T18:49:41.598-04:00August 2013 Update<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-drlYTIDvhq0/UiPCQQQIU8I/AAAAAAAAAqk/L5_ynqz8VDA/s1600/rugs.8.10.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-drlYTIDvhq0/UiPCQQQIU8I/AAAAAAAAAqk/L5_ynqz8VDA/s320/rugs.8.10.13.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Hooked Rug Exhibition on August 10th </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">was well attended throughout the day.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The two events during Heritage Days weekend
at the Union Meeting house were a great success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both the Hooked Rug Exhibition and the
evening concert by the Maranacook String Band and the Sandy River Ramblers drew
large and appreciative crowds. People came and kept coming all day at the rug
show and showed their enthusiasm by stuffing the donation box. Comments were
extremely favorable with guests from out-of-state and all over the State of
Maine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanks are extended to Board member, Joan
Wiebe, who chaired the event, to Mildred Cole Péladeau who curated it, and to
Joe Caputo who made all the display easels, helped set up the exhibit and
loaned many of his fine rugs for display.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanks are due to Board members Marianne
and John Perry for making all the arrangement for the concert. Their
coordination of all aspects made it possible for everything to come off without
a hitch. The audience was full of energy with a lot of foot-stomping going on.
A rough count showed over 100 persons were present. The proceeds, like the rug
show donations made a good addition to the bank account. Thanks also to
advisory Board member Dale Marie Potter Clark for designed the two posters for
the weekend and to all those who distributed them. Flo Drake assisted by taking
charge of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the bottled water table during
the concert. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">To the president the weekend showed what
can be accomplished with volunteer help. It also made it obvious that the
Meeting House needs more volunteers. If anyone is interested in helping to
preserve the Brick Church get in touch with us. The membership drive for
2013-14 is still ongoing and the UMH would appreciate your financial support as
it prepares to tackle the next big chore – the removal of moisture from the
basement and crawl space to prevent further deterioration of the floor
substructure. This will be a five-step project spread out over several years so
any assistance you can lend now will help the Board take the first step this
fall (hopefully).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo9GbI57mDg/UiPCVVjDKuI/AAAAAAAAAqw/7FUIWCOr1nY/s1600/atkinson.window%2526donna.mclaughlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo9GbI57mDg/UiPCVVjDKuI/AAAAAAAAAqw/7FUIWCOr1nY/s320/atkinson.window%2526donna.mclaughlin.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Our thanks to Donna McCormick and family for </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">donating </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">funds to restore the Nancy Hunton Atkinson </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">window. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Donna's mother was a Hunton.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The attendance at the recent events show
that people care about the Brick Church. All that is needed to make the
restoration and upkeep move ahead more expeditiously is additional financial
support and more volunteer effort. Also, remember that the UMH is available for
public use. If you wish to schedule weddings, concerts or other programs feel
free to contact the Board of Directors. The two weddings held in the sanctuary
this summer demonstrated that it is a most pleasing venue for such an occasion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-79175848011691940992013-07-06T18:29:00.001-04:002013-07-06T18:29:45.735-04:00Historically Significant Hooked Rugs to be Shown August 10th<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U7I6ecIpyLY/Uddlj2A5plI/AAAAAAAAAp0/WR9f6wjXVuA/s1600/peladeau.rug%231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U7I6ecIpyLY/Uddlj2A5plI/AAAAAAAAAp0/WR9f6wjXVuA/s320/peladeau.rug%231.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Several historically significant rugs </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">hooked by </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">19th century artist Lucy Trask Barnard </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">will be seen publicly </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">at a hooked rug </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">show at </span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Readfield's Union Meeting House </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">on </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Saturday, August 10, 2013 10am-3pm</span></span>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Saturday
August 10<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> 10am-3pm at </span></span><span>the
Union Meeting House there will be an exhibit of both historical and contemporary
hand hooked, shirred, yarn-sewn and punch-needle rugs organized by Mrs. Joan
Wiebe, a member of the UMH Board, and Mrs. Mildred Cole Péladeau, author of <i>Rug
Hooking in Maine 1838-1940.</i></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span><o:p> </o:p></span><span>One of the hooked rug
highlights will be the first public showing of a striking mid-19</span><span>th </span><span>century rug
attributed to renowned rug maker, Mrs. Lucy Trask Barnard of Dixfield Common,
Maine. This is an exciting new discovery and is the sixth rug attributed to
Barnard. Three are in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC,
and two are at the Farnsworth Museum of Art in Rockland. Privately owned, it is
being made available for the rug show by a noted Maine collector. In all, close
to 50 or more rugs will be available for viewing and will include contemporary
rugs which have never been out for public display previously. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span>Rug hooking is an old art form
with evidence suggesting that it likely originated in Maine in the second
quarter of the 19</span><span>th </span><span>century. Early hooked rugs made in the Waldoboro area
have achieved great notoriety for their artistic three-dimensional quality and
one such rug, made by Minnie Light, will be included. Admission is free but a
donation is suggested. All income will go to the UMH restoration fund.
Information about being included in the show can be obtained from Mrs. Wiebe at
685-4725. </span></span></div>
</div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-79420581243687911792013-06-27T18:50:00.001-04:002013-06-27T18:53:39.006-04:00Maine Bluegrass Concert to benefit Restoration Efforts ~ August 10, 2013 at 7:00pm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oFh8DuK-IAo/UczBOX_qGdI/AAAAAAAAApk/LO3hGlB3yTQ/s1154/keach.group%231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oFh8DuK-IAo/UczBOX_qGdI/AAAAAAAAApk/LO3hGlB3yTQ/s320/keach.group%231.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">On Saturday, August 10, Readfield Union Meeting House will reverberate with Bluegrass music that boasts a distinct Maine twist. Starting at 7:00pm The <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sandy River Ramblers</i> and the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Maranacook String Band</i> will showcase their repertoire, which includes many original songs about Maine. The concert will benefit restoration efforts at the unique and historic Readfield Union Meeting House on Church Street.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The Maranacook String Band is a youthful group of singers/musicians that started as a gifted and talented project at Maranacook Community School in 2010. “The Sandy River Ramblers is our grown-up band,” says bandleader Stan Keach. He and virtuoso mandolinist Dan Simons play and sing in both bands. The Ramblers are known for their breathtaking instrumentals, their 3-and-4 part harmony singing, and their hilarious comedy numbers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The performers present fourteen original songs about Maine, all penned by Keach. The tunes are included on their new CD, </span><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Cry of the Loon and other original songs about Maine</span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">, which showcase the members of both groups. Among the titles are: </span><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Donn Fendler</span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">, </span><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Logger’s Son</span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">; </span><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Up on Little Round Top </span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">(about the 20th Maine at the Battle of Gettysburg); </span><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Boots from L. L. </span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Bean;</span></i><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> and </span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Slow </span><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Down (You’ll Hit A Moose)</span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Keach is a nationally-known Bluegrass songwriter whose creations have been recorded by some of the biggest names in Bluegrass, but he says, “The (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Cry of the Loon</i>) collection, which I’ve been working on for 30 years, is my real labor of love as a songwriter.” Recently he also wrote </span><i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">What the North Pond Hermit Knows </span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica-Oblique; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">which gained notoriety across New England, on <i>You Tube </i>and was </span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">featured on the </span><span class="ndesc"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">WCSH TV show </span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Bill Green’s Maine</span></i><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">.</span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In addition to Keech and Simons there are instrumentalists in both groups that include: Zach Greenham and Megan Dood; Liz Keach on the upright bass; and Bud Godsoe on the banjo. Vocalists include 19-year-old Julie Churchill, of Fayette, and 17-year-old Lee Stetson of Readfield.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">General admission tickets are $10.00 pre-sold and $12.00 at the door. Children under 5 yrs are free. FMI or to reserve tickets</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> call (207) 685-</span><span style="mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Calibri; mso-currency-font-family: Calibri; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Calibri; mso-default-font-family: Calibri; mso-greek-font-family: Calibri; mso-hebrew-font-family: Calibri; mso-latin-font-family: Calibri; mso-latinext-font-family: Calibri;">3531</span><span style="mso-armenian-font-family: Calibri; mso-currency-font-family: Calibri; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Calibri; mso-default-font-family: Calibri; mso-greek-font-family: Calibri; mso-hebrew-font-family: Calibri; mso-latin-font-family: Calibri; mso-latinext-font-family: Calibri;">. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-armenian-font-family: Calibri; mso-currency-font-family: Calibri; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Calibri; mso-default-font-family: Calibri; mso-greek-font-family: Calibri; mso-hebrew-font-family: Calibri; mso-latin-font-family: Calibri; mso-latinext-font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6q0Ic7wwemk/UczAyassOoI/AAAAAAAAApc/2H9awgA1CmI/s174/saunders.mnfg.logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="39" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6q0Ic7wwemk/UczAyassOoI/AAAAAAAAApc/2H9awgA1CmI/s200/saunders.mnfg.logo.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-armenian-font-family: Calibri; mso-currency-font-family: Calibri; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Calibri; mso-default-font-family: Calibri; mso-greek-font-family: Calibri; mso-hebrew-font-family: Calibri; mso-latin-font-family: Calibri; mso-latinext-font-family: Calibri;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-armenian-font-family: Calibri; mso-currency-font-family: Calibri; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Calibri; mso-default-font-family: Calibri; mso-greek-font-family: Calibri; mso-hebrew-font-family: Calibri; mso-latin-font-family: Calibri; mso-latinext-font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Thank you to our event sponsor </strong></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>Saunders Manufacturing</strong> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-67091468967652964432013-05-13T13:48:00.000-04:002013-05-13T13:48:09.009-04:00UMH "Old Vestry" Giveaway<span class="userContent"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zghZl7u0abA/UZElekaygKI/AAAAAAAAApI/sxMk4UeIeMw/s1600/meeting+house+common_Readfield_cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zghZl7u0abA/UZElekaygKI/AAAAAAAAApI/sxMk4UeIeMw/s1600/meeting+house+common_Readfield_cropped.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Old Vestry" was part of Capt. John Smith's <br />
mansion. It was donated by his daughter, Ursula<br />
(Smith) Gile. to UMH for use as a vestry in 1868 <br />
and moved to this location where it has been used <br />
for religious activities ever since. <br />
It was originally part of the <br />
Asa and Ursula (Smith) Gile home on Main Street. </td></tr>
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Our board of directors has voted to give away (for free) the "Old Vestry" to anyone who will move it off the premises. This 19th century post and beam building has a meeting hall on the first floor and several small rooms on the second floo<span class="text_exposed_show">r. It retains old doors and mantles. Windows are new. The "Old Vestry" is located next to the Union Meeting House, 22 Church Road, Readfield. If interested in removing the building call (207) 685-4537 or email <a href="mailto:unionmeetinghouse@gmail.com">unionmeetinghouse@gmail.com</a> </span></div>
</span>UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-19616280018447094872013-05-05T06:10:00.001-04:002013-05-05T06:16:08.813-04:00Spring has arrived...<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">We are pleased to announce we made progress last winter on repairs and restorations to the doors and some of our beautiful windows. This work has been made possible with these generous gifts: Two façade windows from the Warren Boenke memorial donations; two front doors - one from Mr. Therrien's gift and one from Evelyn Potter's quilt raffle proceeds; the Huntoon window with Mrs. Donna Page’s donation; three additional windows including the Haines, Pierce and Notables with Susan Wagner memorial gifts. There is still much work left to do at UMH so your donations are welcome and very gratefully received.</span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Plans are underway for summer activities and the UMH building will be utilized in various ways. For one, there will be a wedding later this month. On June 21st Readfield grammar school alumni (pre- 1956) will be holding a reunion and commencement re-enactment at UMH. Our UMH board and members are planning for Readfield Heritage Days, a benefit concert, lawn sale, and a hooked rug show for later this summer. Stay tuned for details on this and more. </span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">In the meantime we are sprucing up and getting ready for lots of visitors who have interest in touring UMH. Are you one? If so, please do contact us to make an appointment!</span>UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-68737381130884902192013-02-13T21:08:00.002-05:002013-02-13T21:18:41.678-05:00February 2013 Update<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="userContent">Just because there is snow piled against the front door does not mean that The Union Meeting House (the Brick Church) is inactive. The stained glass in the bottom sash of the Hunton-Atkinson has been com-pleted by Stained Glass Express (a division of Oakes & Parkhurst in Manchester/Waterville) and returned to the building. The entire win-dow is being restored because of a gift from Mrs. Donna Page<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> (a Hunton descendent). Mr. Joseph Caputo has taken the top sash to his workshop and is working on the repair of the wooden parts of the window. The entire unit will be re-installed during warmer weather.<br /> Mr. Caputo has also taken the left front door for a complete overhaul in his shop. It needs to be strengthened and tightened up, coats of old paint removed and new primer and paint applied. This is being restored with a gift from Mr. and Mrs. Dana Therrien of Readfield in memory of Mr. Therrien’s parents. Once that door is done Mr. Caputo will take the right hand door and likewise restore it. Funds for that door are coming from the successful quilt raffle organized this past summer by Advisory Board member Evelyn Potter.<br /> At the last Board meeting this month it voted to follow the wishes of Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Wagner of Read-field to use the funds donated by friends of their late daughter, Susan, to continue the restoration of the large windows. Three windows are on the list to be done this winter and they will receive a memorial plaque in memory of Miss Wagner once they are returned and installed. More details on this in the February Messenger.<br /> Therefore, persons driving by the Brick Church this winter will see a lot of plywood closing up windows and doors that have been removed for restoration but this is a good time to get the work behind us before the sum-mer season.<br /> If you have not renewed your membership this is a good time to do so. If you want to join with other inter-ested persons and become a first time member, the Board would welcome you on board. We hope that every-one would help to keep the Brick Church as an important Readfield landmark. Thanks for your support.<br /> Contact the UMH at: 685-4537 or 158 Thorp Shores Rd., Readfield 04355.</span></span></div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-77734825539234942912013-01-09T12:59:00.005-05:002013-05-05T06:18:00.128-04:00January Board of Directors Business Meeting<span class="userContent"></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4sND91mwzk/TNWr46Rp05I/AAAAAAAAAHg/dv6xdV7Y-7g/s1600/20091103_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4sND91mwzk/TNWr46Rp05I/AAAAAAAAAHg/dv6xdV7Y-7g/s1600/20091103_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4sND91mwzk/TNWr46Rp05I/AAAAAAAAAHg/dv6xdV7Y-7g/s200/20091103_3.jpg" width="150" /></a>The Board of Directors are meeting January 17th 6:30pm. This is a business meeting to determine / prioritize which stained and stenciled glass windows can be repaired / restored with monies in hand. There is still time to make a donation for this w<span class="text_exposed_show">orthy effort! Donations can be sent to: Marius Peladeau, UMH President, 158 Thorp Shores, Readfield, ME 04355. Thank you for your kind consideration! </span><br />
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UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-89628026997192879982012-12-19T22:06:00.000-05:002012-12-19T22:07:00.070-05:00Please Remember Readfield Union Meeting House when Planning Your Year-End Giving...<span class="userContent"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8O-dhGqexHc/UFShFoU_kjI/AAAAAAAAAa8/qewqENXaG-Q/s1600/umh.c1950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8O-dhGqexHc/UFShFoU_kjI/AAAAAAAAAa8/qewqENXaG-Q/s320/umh.c1950.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Readfield Union Meeing House c1950</td></tr>
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This picture of <em>Readfield Union Meeting House</em> was taken c1950 - notice the steeple and clock. Efforts are underway to preserve them now - along with the interior repairs and restorations to the invaluable trompe l'oiel artwork by Charles J. Schumacher, the stained glass and stenciled windows and more. This is a daunting task for a handful of volunteers. Community support has been and continues to be vital to this process - some have helped through hands on, others have given gifts in kind and last but not least we have gratefully received the much needed individual and business cash donations and grants from foundations. All are imperative to the success of preserving this national treasure so PLEASE remember <em>Readfield Union Meeting House</em> as you plan your end of year giving!</div>
</span><br />UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-962476453735529032012-12-19T22:03:00.001-05:002012-12-19T22:08:47.708-05:00December 2012 Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFSdidftiio/UNJ_vp4CxJI/AAAAAAAAAnI/O9gZ3ODBpm0/s1600/20100415_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFSdidftiio/UNJ_vp4CxJI/AAAAAAAAAnI/O9gZ3ODBpm0/s1600/20100415_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFSdidftiio/UNJ_vp4CxJI/AAAAAAAAAnI/O9gZ3ODBpm0/s320/20100415_2.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">A
happy holiday to everyone from the Board and Advisory Board of The Union
Meeting House. We are buttoned up tight for the winter but before it got too
cold workmen from Oakes & Parkhurst stained glass restorers came and took
out the Nancy Hunton Atkinson memorial stained glass window. Over the past
decades the bottom third had sagged badly and the entire sash was in danger of
letting go. This would mean hundreds of pieces of broken glass on the ground
and the loss of a beautiful window.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This past summer Mrs. Donna Page, a former Readfield girl and a Hunton
descendant, donated $1,000 to have the window taken out and completely
restored. Between Oakes & Parkhurst, which will repair the stained glass,
and Joseph Caputo of East Pittston, who will scrap, prime, repair and paint the
wooden casing and sashes, the window should be back in place by springtime. Our
thanks for Mrs. Page for her thoughtfulness.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>October was the Meeting House Board’s annual meeting. Elected to serve
until October 2013 were: Marius B. Péladeau, president; Barbara Boenke,
secretary; Donn Harriman, treasurer; and Florence Drake, Marianne and John
Perry, Karen B. Peterson; Joan Wiebe and Milton R. Wright. On the Advisory
Board are Dale Marie Potter Clark, Mary Jernigan, Brianne M. McNally and Evelyn
A. Potter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The newsletter to all members and donors is in the mail. If anyone else
wants a copy let us know at 685-4537. The UMH is honored that the branches of
The Bank of Maine in Readfield and Winthrop made a kind donation to sponsor
this newsletter</span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc;">.</span></span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc;"> </span></span></div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-25606298795260445072012-09-15T10:49:00.000-04:002013-05-05T06:20:30.245-04:00Getting Married Soon?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yjTU1Eni84g/UFZlagRvn4I/AAAAAAAAAhA/ZyVAll47rEk/s1600/mandi_dave_at.umg_5.18.2002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yjTU1Eni84g/UFZlagRvn4I/AAAAAAAAAhA/ZyVAll47rEk/s320/mandi_dave_at.umg_5.18.2002.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="left">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Donna Hall photo, 5/18/2002</span></strong></div>
<strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Amanda Clark & David Linton wedding at </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Readfield Union Meeting House. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">The <em>trompe l'oeil</em> art provided a </span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>beautiful </strong><strong>backdrop for the wedding.</strong></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong><em>Have you thought about reserving the Union Meeting House for your wedding</em></strong>? The setting could not be more beautiful - or historic. FMI email <a href="mailto:unionmeetinghouse@gmail.com">unionmeetinghouse@gmail.com</a>.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Did you get married at the Union Meeting House? </em></strong>We want to include more pictures in the slideshow, on this website, of weddings performed at UMH. Email jpegs to <a href="mailto:unionmeetinghouse@gmail.com">unionmeetinghouse@gmail.com</a>. Be sure to include names, dates and photographic credits. <br />
<br />
<strong><em>Scroll down to the slideshows</em></strong> in the left column to see the wedding pictures slideshow. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><em>"I knew from the time I was a little girl that I wanted to get married at the Union Meeting House because I always thought it was so beautiful inside. It was like a dream come true for me."</em> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Mandi Clark Linton, Readfield</span></div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-7884074802284737922012-09-14T20:04:00.000-04:002012-09-16T10:57:21.833-04:00The Dome has been Removed for VITAL Repairs!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2B_XP4hfec/UFXemSqAlvI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/xtvmvfWw7Zc/s1600/removal.steeple.9.13.2012%234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2B_XP4hfec/UFXemSqAlvI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/xtvmvfWw7Zc/s200/removal.steeple.9.13.2012%234.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The UMH done was removed for repairs Thursday.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cindy Cushing photo</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="userContent">Readfield Union Meeting House made a big step yesterday! The dome was removed and stored so that VITAL repairs can be made. Thank you to the Lewiston Sun for covering the landmark event in both words and pictures!! </span><br />
<span class="userContent">Donations are still needed and appreciated to complete this project and others - all vital to the survival of Readfield Union Meeting House! Read on to our next post to learn more about the projects we are undertaking to preserve UMH. To see more pictures of the event go to our "Repair and Restoration" slideshow. This slideshow will also give you an idea of how much work has been done over the past two years! You can also </span><span class="userContent">read more in the Lewiston Sun news article, along with their pictures, by going to our MEDIA LINKS. </span>Thank you, as always, for your support!UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-6139025150241257282012-08-28T18:12:00.000-04:002012-09-16T10:57:44.668-04:002012 Membership Drive ~ Your Support is NeededReadfield Union Meeting House annual membership drive is underway. This year's membership drive is more important than ever as in the year ahead we face some daunting tasks. If you have not received a letter and request from our Board of Directors do not hesitate - you can easily make your secure online donation today via the "DONATE HERE" button / link at the left of this screen. <br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Following is a letter from the UMH Board of Directors, who are seeking the support of members and donors:</em><br />
<br />
June 2012<br />
<br />
Dear Members and Friends<br />
<br />
The membership year for the Union Meeting House comes to an end this month (June 2012) and a new one, filled with daunting tasks, begins. We must succeed to reach a major step in saving the steeple. If we fail the future of the building is very uncertain. The past four years have seen progress, due in great part to the willingness of our members and friends to support the restoration efforts.<br />
This is going to be an important year for the building. One of the most expert steeplejacks examined the steeple last fall and confirmed what Ernest Bracy was told more than 25 years ago - there are many seriously rotted beams in the steeple. Its entire stability is threatened. We don't have to spell out the consequences of what will happen if we fail to act quickly. Everyone can see the poor condition of the clapboards on the tower, the badly eroded clock dials and the Roman numerals on the dial beginning to come off. Portions of the metal roof on the dome are flying off in the wind and falling to the ground like leaves off a tree. These are merely experior evidence of a more serious deteroration inside.<br />
The first step is for a crane to remove the entire rotted, leaking dome. While the crane is on site the bell and its cradle will be taken out since ultimately the metal belfry roof, on which the bell sits has to be taken up and replaced. A new belfry roof will make the structure water tight.<br />
This is only the initial step. The years of water dripping down into the steeple have rotted the majority of the structural beams that hold the belfry and clock tower together. The majority will have to be replaced. These are huge timbers and it will be a major, expensive undertaking to remove the rotted ones and to insert the new timbers while working around the clock mechanism. Naturally the cost will be huge. These first two steps to save the steeple will be close to $110,000 ($30,000 for Phase I and $80,000 for Phase II later). That may seem daunting, but the Board thinks it is a feasible goal and one we can reach over several years with community support.<br />
Yes, this multi-year project will be the most ambitious and most costly undertaking in the Meeting House's 184 year history. Encouraged by past support, the Board believes that the community shares in the significance of preserving this magnificent historical structure in the Town of Readfield. PLEASE renew your membership or, if you have not given before, join with a first-time gift so that the first step we have outlined above can be done in 2012.<br />
<br />
Sincerely yours,<br />
The Board of The Readfield Union Meeting House<br />
Marius Pelideau, President<br />
Barbara Boenke, Secretary<br />
Donn Harriman, Treasurer<br />
Florence Drake, Marianne Perry, John Perry, Karen B. Peterson, Joan Wiebe and Milton R. Wright<br />
The Advisory Board of The Readfield Union Meeting House <br />
Dale Marie Potter Clark, Holly H. Dumaine, Mary Jernigan, Brianne M. McNally and Evelyn A. Potter<br />
<br />
<u>Membership Annual Dues:</u><br />
$25 Single<br />
$45 Family<br />
$15 Student<br />
$75 Patron<br />
$100 Benefactor<br />
$150 Sponsor<br />
$250 Life Fellow<br />
$250 Corporate<br />
Please contact us for special named gifts to the Meeting House. Naming opportunities include the steeple, windows. replica carpet and bell. There are other projects that could be accomplished with an earmarked gift and could help move the restoration forward. We would like to talk to you about these opportunities. If you wish for information on these additional opportunities please contact Marius Peladeau (contact info below).<br />
<br />
You can easily make your secure online donation today via the "DONATE HERE" button / link at the left of this screen. <strong>Or</strong> you can mail your donation to: <br />
Readfield Union Meeting House<br />
c/o 158 Thorpe Shores <br />
Readfield, ME 04355<br />
Questions can be directed to:<br />
Marius Peladeau: 207-685-4537 or <a href="mailto:mpeladeau@roadrunner.com">mpeladeau@roadrunner.com</a><br />
<br />
<strong><em>We thank you in advance for your kind consideration and generosity!</em></strong>UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-71040216811358865932012-08-14T13:42:00.001-04:002012-09-16T10:58:02.579-04:00Quilt Show 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSw5in01OLA/UCqNfIcWI9I/AAAAAAAAAT0/k0fRe6c0wq8/s1600/quilts2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSw5in01OLA/UCqNfIcWI9I/AAAAAAAAAT0/k0fRe6c0wq8/s320/quilts2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Quilt Show on August 11, 2012 was a success! Thank you to all who helped plan and prepare for the show. We express appreciation to the hundreds of guests who came to partake of the quilts and to admire the beauty of the Union Meeting House as well! Congratulations to Phyllis Rourke of Readfield who won the United States quilt raffle.</div>
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-12227706248513313482011-11-28T13:59:00.002-05:002011-11-28T14:02:14.712-05:00New handicap ramp installed at Readfield Union Meeting House<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OZY9j90pTrQ/TtPanh2l5HI/AAAAAAAAASM/zYFTCQ5FqBk/s1600/UMH.bldg.ramp.11.11.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 141px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OZY9j90pTrQ/TtPanh2l5HI/AAAAAAAAASM/zYFTCQ5FqBk/s200/UMH.bldg.ramp.11.11.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680123927681426546" /></a><br />The extension of the handicapped ramp at the Union Meeting House was undertaken by (left to right) Jason Wheeler of Fayette, Nathan James of Monmouth (James & Wheeler) with the assistance of Byron Hewitt of Farmington. They demonstrated excellent workmanship. The ramp will be stained in the spring.UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-82698625004517179162011-11-22T19:22:00.003-05:002011-11-22T19:25:43.357-05:00November 2011 UpdatesThe warm fall allowed the Board of the Union Meeting House to complete a few projects before the snow flies. When the re-grading of the entire lot by Reay Construction took place it was necessary to remove the “hump” of an old septic system that was allowing rain water to drain back under the foundation. When the dirt was taken away the handicapped ramp no longer fit. To follow Federal guidelines the ramp had to be extended to provide the proper pitch for handicapped persons.<br />The contract was put out to bid and James & Wheeler, local builders, submitted the low bid. They did the work, using pressure-treated lumber, in early November and the finished product meets everyone’s expectation. Thank you, Nathan and Jason. Chris Dumaine of Mt. Vernon had earlier rehabilitated and painted the original part of the ramp and he will do the same for the new addition next spring.<br /><br />The Board hopes that everyone has driven past the Meeting House to see the attractive new sign. Mr. Dumaine will also stain the sign posts in the spring. Thanks again to Reay Construction for the installation of the sign as a donation to the UMH. Inside, all the splintered and rotted window sills have been repaired and repainted.<br /><br />This fall the Board commissioned two steeplejack firms to study the building’s steeple. Their reports confirmed earlier studies done previous years – there is substantial rot through the entire steeple and the large hole at the top of the dome is causing havoc as the rain water enters into the top of the steeple. We’ll be reporting in more detail in a coming Messenger on what they found to be the problems. The cost will be enormous. Be prepared for sticker shock.UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-74975047922669292702011-10-22T17:16:00.001-04:002011-10-22T17:18:13.180-04:00October 2011 UpdatesIt has been a busy and productive fall at the Union Meeting House (“the Brick Church”) on Church Road. Thanks to a generous gift from a descendant, a Memorial Window in memory of the late Mrs. Elizabeth Dumaine Clarke of Kents Hill was restored in late August. Her grandson, Christopher Dumaine of Mt. Vernon, provided the funds which made possible the total rehabilitation of one of the large stenciled glass windows in the sanctuary. Now it fittingly bears a brass plaque with Mrs. Clarke’s name. (Please see picture below)<br />Many Readfield residents remember Mrs. Clarke and her husband who operated a large dairy farm on the Old Kents Hill Road for many years. After having been in place since 1868 the window had received no attention. The painted surface had worn away, most of the putty holding in the glass panes had turned to dust and some of the sashes and the outside casing were rotted or broken. Restorer Joseph Caputo of East Pittston took out the sashes and removed them to his workshop where every pane of glass was removed, wood repairs undertaken and then each pane reset in new putty before a complete priming and painting. <br />The Board of The Meeting House extends its thanks to Mr. Dumaine for his extreme generosity. <br />Thanks to a major grant from the Quimby Family Foundation the Board was able to call for bids from local contractors to re-grade the entire Meeting House lot. The award went to the low bidder, Reay Excavation of Readfield. In September the firm removed an old septic system, which was causing drainage problems and a pump station installed underground to send all waste up to a newer septic field in back of the Old Vestry. Then dirt which had piled up around the foundation was taken away and the entire lot sloped so that now there is the proper drainage away from the building. A final layer of topsoil, crushed rock under the eaves, and a membrane that is underground to protect the foundation completed the work. Already the new grass is springing up and the change is evident. The Board thanks Mr. and Mrs. Reay for their professional work. (Please see the picture below)<br />And, as extra bonus, while the equipment was on the lot, Mr. and Mrs. Reay installed the brand new Meeting House sign along Church Road free of charge as a donation to the Meeting House. This gesture is much appreciated. In October the sign posts will be cut off at the top and decorative caps installed. <br />Thanks also to the students from Kents Hill, led by Joy Bonnefond, who came down at the end of the month to rake leaves and tidy up the Meeting House grounds. <br />Residents of Readfield are reminded that all meetings of the Meeting House Board and Advisory Board are open to the public. The next meeting will be October 20 at 6:L30 p.m. on the second floor of the Town Office. <br /><strong>The membership is half completed. If you have not renewed we’d appreciate your continued support. Our mailing address is: 158 Thorp Shores Rd., Readfield 04355.</strong>UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-12111687838579996342011-10-22T17:00:00.002-04:002013-02-17T07:35:23.418-05:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-59cVmZ9ybos/TqM052rB0aI/AAAAAAAAARY/NRNMZ9P0_H4/s1600/lenny.reay%2526doug.riley_10.11" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="588" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666430924695392674" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-59cVmZ9ybos/TqM052rB0aI/AAAAAAAAARY/NRNMZ9P0_H4/s640/lenny.reay%2526doug.riley_10.11" style="float: left; height: 184px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 200px;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doug Riley, the civil engineer who designed the re-grading of the Union Meeting House lot, and Mr. Linwood Reay, the contractor who successfully carried out Mr. Riley’s plans, talk while the work was underway last month. The project was the first step in a restoration of the building.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHkB1o1XgwQ/TqM0ysazMmI/AAAAAAAAARM/cSwnNCQAsYk/s1600/chris.dumaine.10.11" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666430801683886690" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHkB1o1XgwQ/TqM0ysazMmI/AAAAAAAAARM/cSwnNCQAsYk/s200/chris.dumaine.10.11" style="float: left; height: 186px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 200px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christopher Dumaine of Mt. Vernon affixes a brass to the window at the Union Meeting House in memory of his grandmother, Mrs. Elizabeth Dumaine Clarke of Readfield. A very generous gift from Chris and Holly Dumaine made possible the restoration of the beautiful window.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-90268896306668219272011-09-05T09:45:00.004-04:002011-09-05T09:57:42.375-04:00Restoration and Repair Updates ~ September 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p97Xpjkx5z8/TmTUCn7dOqI/AAAAAAAAAPw/jNSyd-Zhwcs/s1600/dumaine.window.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 168px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p97Xpjkx5z8/TmTUCn7dOqI/AAAAAAAAAPw/jNSyd-Zhwcs/s320/dumaine.window.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648872974172633762" /></a><br />The restoration of one of the rare stenciled glass windows was made possible from a donation by Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Dumaine of Mt. Vernon. The completed project will be dedicated to the memory of Mr. Dumaine’s mother, Mrs. Yvonne Dumaine, a log-time resident of Readfield. In this photo the restorer, Mr. Joseph Caputo of East Pittston is re-installing the sash weights.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQXjZdStf0c/TmTToG8DSAI/AAAAAAAAAPo/fi85RfSuVbQ/s1600/nickerson.window.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 191px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQXjZdStf0c/TmTToG8DSAI/AAAAAAAAAPo/fi85RfSuVbQ/s320/nickerson.window.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648872518640158722" /></a><br />The Nickerson Family stained glass window was restored in early September thanks to a generous gift from the three children of Louise Nickerson Meggison who lived for many years in the family homestead o Nickerson Hill road. The Board of the Meeting House thanks Mrs. Mary Meggison Duntley and her brothers, Glynn and David Meggison for their generous support. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GJyV9S5oopI/TmTS36_t5-I/AAAAAAAAAPg/YZUeB9CiKho/s1600/reay.construction.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GJyV9S5oopI/TmTS36_t5-I/AAAAAAAAAPg/YZUeB9CiKho/s320/reay.construction.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648871690800588770" /></a><br />Mr. Lenny Reay, a Readfield contractor, started the major project of re-grading the Meeting House to resolve serious water infiltration into the church’s interior. The project also involves work on resolving another problem caused by an improperly sited septic tank. Here Mr. Reay is removing the handcapped ramp so that the old septic tank can be removed. This undertaking is beng funded by aq major grant from the Quimby Family Foundation.<br />UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-27418811921695511642011-09-01T15:08:00.000-04:002012-09-16T10:59:19.373-04:00September 2011 UpdatesThe Union Meeting House Board of Trustees moved ahead on several fronts during August. A good turn-out for the Open House on the Saturday of Heritage Days introduced the beautiful building to some new persons in town and gave others a chance to become acquainted with the restoration the Board is undertaking. One lady from Florida, who summers in Mt. Vernon, came back to see the church where she was married many years ago. Thanks to Ev Potter, Mary Jernigan and Marius Peladeau who gave tours to the public. The UMH Board thanks Karen Dubé for selecting the Union Meeting House for the front of the Heritage Days T-shirt. Buy one at the Town Office and support the fine work of the Heritage Days Committee.<br />
<br />
The restoration of another window has been made possible by a generous gift from a couple with deep Readfield ties. The sashes were removed in August and are currently being restored.The names of the donors will be announced when the window is re-dedicated this fall.<br />
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To prepare for the re-grading of the lot which will take place any day now, Holly Dumaine, a member of the Advisory Board, her son, Chris, and Board member Joan Wiebe spent time and effort to move all the flowers that landscaped the front of the building. They were put in pots and moved to the side of the lot so they can be put back in place once the re-grading is completed. The work on removing the old moth-infested cushions mention in the August Messenger is nearly complete. The cushions were taken to the recycle center and dumped, the cushions were dry cleaned and new foam inserts cut to order. It was found that some of the slip covers did not have zippers so the old cushions could not be removed. They were slit along the seams and new zippers will be installed once they are cleaned. Totaling all the expenses this project cost over $1,500, an unexpected outlay at this time with so many other priorities facing the Board in the face. (Remember, please renew your membership for 2011-2012.)<br />
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The family of Ruth Townsend requested that gifts in her memory could be made to the Union Meeting House, which she had loved with so much dedication for so many years. The Board thanks those who have made gifts to date. The Board extends its condolences to her family. These gifts will go immediately to help pay for operating expenses, such as covering the cost of the cushion work. <br />
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Members of the Nickerson Family, of Nickerson Hill Road (naturally), were in town in August and stopped by the church so that the UMH and the Readfield Historical Society could interview them about their family memories. Mrs. Mary J. Meggison Duntley, and her brothers, Glynn and David, have pledged gifts to restore the Nickerson stained glass window in memory of their mother, Mrs. Louise Nickerson Meggison of Readfield. The Board is most appreciative of this family’s dedication to preserving the window which commemorates the importance of the Nickerson family name in town. <br />
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Last, but not least – and of major importance – is the visit to the UMH by Aaron Sturges of Preservation Timber Framing, Inc., of Berwick, who is widely known as an expert in the repair and preservation of timber-framed buildings, especially church steeples. He has restored numerous steeples over the past decades, the ones closest to Readfield being in Yarmouth and Damariscotta. In Maine the firm has also restored steeples in York, Gorham and Brunswick. The Board is looking forward to receiving Mr. Sturges’ assessment of the damage the UMH steeple has suffered over the years from infiltrating water. Serious rot can be seen throughout the clock tower, belfry and dome which caps the steeple. Once the Board has cost estimates on hand, the process of fund-raising will commence. This will be a major undertaking, the most costly and ambitious project facing the Meeting House at present. UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-27164873124705904332011-07-25T13:45:00.001-04:002011-07-27T18:50:36.176-04:00August 2011 UpdatesDuring Heritage Days weekend the Union Meeting House will be open to the public for guided tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 13. There will be docents present to point out the wonderful features of the building and explain why it was placed on The National Register of Historic Places as a cultural, historic and artistic landmark. Come and pay a visit.<br /> Karen Dube of Heritage Days has selected the Meeting House as the “illustration” for the annual Heritage Days T-Shirt. While the UMH does not benefit financially, it does focus attention on the Meeting House as a significant Readfield historical building. Buy a Heritage Days T-Shirt and draw attention on the UMH. The Board thanks Mrs. Dube for her efforts.<br /> Soon after Heritage Days residents will see heavy equipment and workmen around the building. In July the Board advertised for bids to re-grade the lot to prevent serious drainage problems and it awarded the low bid to Reay Construction & Trucking in Readfield. When the Board had an assessment of the building done in 2009 the serious drainage problems were noted as the very first priority that had to be tackled before building restoration could proceed. <br /> The work will be done with a generous grant received in 2010 from the Quimby Family Foundation. Besides the reconfiguration of the lot the project will include important septic system improvements and work on the two sets of granite front steps that have cracked and badly shifted over the past decades, leading to additional foundation and drainage problems. When everything is completed it will appear as though all that has been accomplished is a nice newly seeded lawn, but close inspection will reveal a major step forward. The Board thanks the Quimby Family Foundation for its faith in its efforts to restore the UMH.<br /> For years the building has been infected with thousands (???millions) of moths and spraying efforts did not solve the problem. In July we were advised to remove all 114 slip covers that had been placed over the original cushions because the moths were living and reproducing at a great rate inside these cushions. All the covers were taken to Rotary Cleaners in Augusta for dry cleaning. The Meeting House thanks owner Paul Poulin for doing this work at a reduced rate. The old cushions were dumped and new comfortable foam cushions were custom cut in Lewiston. Now all that has to be done is get a crew of willing helpers to stuff the foam into the covers. Hopefully this project, which cost over $1,300, will solve the moth problem forever.<br /><br />FMI contact the UMH at: 158 Thorp Shores, Readfield 04355; (207) 685-4537 <br />or follow this blog or on <strong>facebook</strong> for updates.UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7906069609728249820.post-45464019033355456042011-04-26T11:49:00.007-04:002011-04-27T10:24:15.199-04:00April 2011 UpdateSpring has arrived and the Union Meeting House is making plans for summer work. The restorer, Joseph Caputo, has taken the sashes out of the last window on the southern side of the building to his restoration workshop in East Pittston. The panes broken by a falling tree limb last fall will be replaced and the two sashes scraped, primed, puttied and repainted. In addition a kind gift from a generous donor will allow Mr. Caputo to tackle the second window on the north side and restore it completely, including the casing and sill. This is progress but many more windows need immediate attention.<br /><em><strong>We gratefully accept donations to assist with ongoing restoration projects. For your convenience a donation can be made online - see the "Donate Here" button in the left column of this screen. We thank you for your generous support!</strong></em>UMHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14954807414290796467noreply@blogger.com