Historic Mills Community House Repairs

Your donation is vital to help preserve and keep the historic Mills Community House a vibrant part of our community.

Our goal in 2022 is to cover the cost of several important building infrastructure projects! Our 30-year old hydraulic elevator needs to be replaced with an ADA-compliant, more reliable model. This will ensure smoother, more efficient access to all levels of the building, including the Benzonia Public Library. We also need exterior building work to replace damaged wooden fascia and tuckpointing of deteriorating brickwork. Cost estimates exceed $250,000 for these renovations.

We have already raised over $75,000 toward many of the updates needed in our 113-year old building. We made much-needed improvements in 2021 including a roof replacement and adding restrooms on the upper level, where most events are held. The restrooms are sure to be a huge asset moving forward as we host more events and further engage with our community.

The distinctive red brick building, built in 1909 as a dormitory for the Benzonia Academy, became the Mills Community House in 1925. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mills has been used as a public venue throughout its history: a gymnasium, meeting location for educational and cultural programs, and home to the Benzonia Public Library for nearly 100 years.

Learn more about the historic Mills Community House at: www.millscommhouse.org.