Preserve
South Newbury Union Chapel

This little Chapel has stood steadfast and witnessed a lot of history over its 166-year lifetime! Periodically, the Chapel requires some maintenance and restoration work to preserve it and the history it contains. This is an ongoing process by the Trustees in collaboration with our partners.

What has been done to preserve South Newbury Union Chapel so far

• Building Assessment Study by Perspectus Architecture, courtesy of Geauga Park District

• Structural Engineering Study by Barber and Hoffman, courtesy of Geauga Park District

• Currently undergoing thorough documentation per Historic American Building Survey standards by Preservation Toolbox, LLC 

What the studies and surveys have revealed for the Chapel's future restoration needs

• Foundation and sill reconstruction, which will entail lifting the Chapel off of its existing foundation

• Belfry stabilization, repair and re-enclosure with transparent materials to showcase the original bell to return the tower to its pre-1953 appearance 

• Roof replacement 

• Lab analysis of paint, plaster, wood, and mortar by an architectural conservator to maintain the historical character of the building while necessary repairs are undertaken

• Wood window and door restoration 

• Exterior paint

• Interior restoration work, including re-plastering the walls/ceilings and repairing the stage and floors

Additional updates recommended by surveyors for the Chapel in the future 

• Fire detection system

• Climate control/HVAC

• Upgrade electrical system

• Public restroom amenities in a separate structure

• ADA accessibility enhancements

• Site grading for drainage

• Parking enhancements 

These enhancements would be completed according to the U.S. Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and would enhance the functionality of the Chapel as an open public gathering space.

Any contribution to our South Newbury Union Chapel Restoration Campaign would get us one step closer to preserving the Union Chapel for generations to come. South Newbury Union Chapel is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and contributions are tax deductible to the extent permissible by law. Contributions are accepted by mail or online.