Preserving the Legacy of Friendship Hall: Join Our Restoration Effort
Help restore a cherished piece of Marshfield Hills history.
For over 125 years, Friendship Hall has been the heart of Marshfield Hills, hosting countless community gatherings, celebrations, and events. Today, we face a critical moment in preserving this historic building. Without your help, Friendship Hall’s rich legacy could fade. We need your support to restore and protect this vital landmark for future generations.
Originally built in 1897 as the Clift Rodgers Library, the building was a gathering place for the community—hosting meetings, benefits, plays, and other events. Over the years, the library evolved into a lively hub, rented for cotillions, engagement parties, wedding receptions, and Friday night dances.
Fast forward to 2024, and while the name has changed to Friendship Hall on Old Main, the building’s role as a gathering spot remains just as vital. Today, it serves groups like AA, Girl Scouts, youth organizations, theater performances, wedding receptions, and so much more. Friendship Hall continues to be a place of joy, celebration, and community.
Community Organizations Using Friendship Hall
- Alcoholics Anonymous— 3 distinct AA groups meet at Friendship Hall throughout the week.
- Some Small Show— Local theater group holds rehearsals and performances
- Girl Scout Troops
- Local Kennel Club
- NCC Youth and Mission Groups— Utilize the space for meetings, spaghetti dinners and other fundraising events
- NCC Adult Mission fundraisers— wine tasting and other fundraising events
Friendship Hall is rented on a regular basis by individuals and organizations within the broader community for everything from meetings to birthday parties, celebrations of life, game nights, and more.
Why this project matters now
Today, Friendship Hall is in urgent need of restoration. From the windows that once framed the views of community gatherings to the structure that has welcomed generations of residents, each part of the building holds a story worth saving. However, without immediate action, we risk losing the hall’s historical integrity.
This is more than a restoration; it’s about preserving the memories, history, and heart of Marshfield Hills. By restoring Friendship Hall, we can ensure that it remains a vibrant space for community events, educational programs, and social gatherings for many more years to come.
While we have already invested $160,000 in critical repairs to the steps, handicap ramp, roof, and Friendship Room (Hughes Room), significant restoration work is still needed.
Will you join us in preserving Friendship Hall on Old Main?
Your support will ensure that this beloved space remains a place of gathering, celebration, and connection for future generations.
The Friendship Hall Capital Campaign committee endeavors to raise $475,000 over a two-year period to fund critical exterior repairs and preserve the building’s historical integrity.
Early pledges will enable the restoration work to begin as soon as possible, but contributions can be made over the two-year period in whatever way is most convenient.
There are many ways to fulfill your pledge! Consider these giving options below. While donations in any amount are welcome, we invite you to participate at one of the following donor levels, today, or over the two -year campaign.
Your generosity, at any level, is greatly appreciated! Ways to Give
Giving Levels
Ways to Give
Help to meet our $475,000 goal by committing to one of the giving levels over the next two years.
Here are some ways to fulfill your commitment:
- Donate stock directly to Friendship Hall.
- Use your annual required minimum distribution from your retirement account.
- Make a donation through your charitable giving account to Friendship Hall.
- Write a check to North Community Church with “Friendship Hall Capital Campaign” in the memo.
- Make an online donation via FriendshipHall.org
- Include Friendship Hall in your estate planning.
Please complete your first year’s commitment by March 31, 2025, and the second year by January 31, 2026, or, if preferred, fulfill the full commitment this year.
For questions, contact Stephen Halko-Sheehan at info@friendshiphall.org. Thank you for your support!