Old Village Church Restoration Project

The Old Village Church on the Common, was built in 1829 and was later accompanied by a seminary built in 1834. The seminary, which is considered the birthplace of Boston University School of Theology, burned down in the Newbury fire, but the church remained standing and it's still today a focal point of the common and used for community purposes.

COVID-19 has had so many ramifications for our world, our country, and our community. While the threat to health has been primary, the associated threats to many aspects of life we have taken for granted are incalculable. 

A case in point is our Old Village Church with its powerful history from the early 1800’s, its architectural beauty, its physical location overlooking Newbury’s iconic Common, and its role as a gathering center for a variety of events. Just how is this vital institution in our community affected by COVID? The need to maintain the building does not cease, but the traditional fundraising efforts allowing the Woman’s Club to maintain the property for posterity do. 

With a front porch and foundation needing major structural work to the tune of an estimated $23,000, the Woman’s Club is confronting the new reality of how to get funds to replace the porch roof and support the church’s crumbling foundation. Needless to say, we would be most appreciative of any and all donations!