CPA Projects – Detailed Report

Hope Community Church intends to restore the structure as part of its nomination for landmark status. Phase I includes roof and foundation work to stabilize the structure, preventing further damage and sealing the structure from the climate. The church remains essentially untouched since it was constructed in 1912—meaning that although much of the character and charm of the original structure is intact, it is in serious need of restoration to prevent walls from buckling, the roof from collapsing, and other catastrophic structural failures. Historically, the Hope Community Church, and the AME Zion Church, was the only places in town where colored persons could worship. Today, the Church is open to the entire community, and also serves as a cultural centerpiece in the Prospect-Gaylord National Historic Register District. The Church is a contributing structure in the district based on its general history and distinctive architectural style: shingled building in Craftsman style. Historic figures associated with the Church include W.E.B. Dubois, who was instrumental in helping to raise funds for its beginning in 1912, and civil rights leader Mary Jane McLeod Bethune who was present at the Church’s dedication. As in all cases of private uses of CPA funds, an historic preservation restriction on this building and property will need to be transferred to the Town