ORFORD — The historic Orford Congregational Church on Main Street, built in 1855, has served generations of residents for traditional church services such as weekly worship, weddings, baptisms and memorial services as well as being a place for numerous community functions and activities.

But the small and aging congregation has struggled to maintain the building and does not have the money for needed repairs, so it is turning to the town for help. In a petitioned article on the Town Meeting warrant, church members are asking residents if they would agree to have the Selectboard look into the feasibility of the town purchasing the church. The article does not state a price, only that it would be “mutually agreed upon.”

Congregation member Paula Graves, whose family’s connection with the church goes back more than 100 years, said in an email the church is a valuable and well-used community resource, and the congregation wants to see that continue. Graves listed a number of town uses, including free weekly produce distribution by Orford Cares, flu clinics, Veterans Day ceremonies, birthday parties, bridal showers, events held by the Historical Society and the library, and meals, activities and more for seniors.

“It is the only place around for seniors to gather,” Graves said.

The church is also the emergency location for Rivendell Academy, if the school is evacuated, and serves as an emergency shelter for townspeople.

“The building is just too important to our community,” said Graves, who served as a second-generation church deacon.

Graves said maintenance and normal repair costs are increasing, as well as the costs for insurance, fuel, power and water, and there are previously deferred repair projects.

“Combined, they are somewhat overwhelming,” she said.

In a phone interview this week, Graves said they have put off painting the exterior and repairing the windows because they don’t have the money or manpower.

“It is all those things that many older churches, not only in the Upper Valley, but all over New England are struggling with,” Graves said, adding that they are preparing to apply for grants that could help pay for repairs.

The church holds a number of fundraisers, including craft fairs and pie sales, but those are limited because of the size and age of many congregants. Graves said the number of congregants, some of whom leave for Florida in the winter, is fewer than 100.

The church had been listed on the National Register of Historic Places in New Hampshire, but Graves said the designation is only good for 20 years and has expired.

Orford is scheduled to hold Town Meeting on Tuesday, March 14 at 7 p.m. in the Rivendell Academy gym, 2972 Route 25A.

Patrick O’Grady can be reached at pogclmt@gmail.com.

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