We have started A Putney Town Hall Renovation Fund which supports the creation of the Putney Historical Society’s (PHS) new home in the Putney Town Hall!
- The 1871, historic Putney Town Hall on Main Street is a wonderful, well-preserved example of Italianate architecture that anchors the Putney Village Historic District and our little downtown.
- The PHS has a long-term, 25-year lease with the town for the upstairs of Town Hall to serve as our home as well as a shared event and meeting space once a comprehensive renovation is accomplished.
- The first floor houses the current town offices and small meeting room.
- The second floor, including a large auditorium and stage – once home to the annual town meeting and many theater productions – has been vacant for decades. It has no heating, plumbing, sprinkler system, or barrier-free access.
- A 2005 feasibility study envisioned a renovated building with elevator, accessible restrooms, energy efficiency, better offices and cultural facilities. That project was not undertaken – until now.
- As part of the Town’s commitment to PHS for 25 years, the PHS in turn has committed to helping the town raise the funds to renovate the Town Hall.
PHS brings a track record of successfully managing major community redevelopment projects: The reconstruction of the Putney General Store after two fires and the transformation of the former United Church of Putney into the vibrant Next Stage Performing Arts Center.
Despite these past projects the PHS doesn’t yet have a real home – which is why this project is so crucial for us.
Working closely with the Town, we have:
- secured several grants
- updated the old study
- engaged architects who have completed a set of construction drawings
- hired a development consultant
- brought on a construction manager.
Both the town and PHS have committed initial funds and won grants to develop the project as we continue to fundraise.
We have been successful in two significant construction grant applications that will support the new HVAC and the restoration of the historic windows. That work will start in 2026 while funding for the rest of the project is sought.
- The Window Restoration is Underway! The project started in August 2026 and will continue through the fall. New custom storm windows are included.
- Phase 1 of the renovation is ready to start in the fall of 2026 and includes installing a new HVAC system in the 2nd floor, insulation of the 2nd floor walls, and restoration of the auditorium ceiling.
The Entire Project Scope
The entire new design is currently being estimated. The total will be made up of individual donations, private and government grants, and loans. We have already raised over $900,000.
- The Planned Construction will provide:
- Energy efficiency improvements that respect Town Hall’s historic architecture – including window restoration and door upgrades.
- Replacement of the building’s fossil fuel-based heating system with a state-of-the-art system for comfortable and efficient heating, cooling and ventilation on both floors.
- Accessibility upgrades including an elevator, accessible bathrooms, and barrier-free doors and entrance ways.
- Restoration of historic exterior and interior features
- Historically sensitive reconfiguration and furnishing of internal space to serve municipal and PHS needs including a shared upstairs space for community meetings and events
- Electrical and data upgrades to support the new HVAC equipment and elevator, controllable lighting, as well as audio-visual and information technology that enable accessible in-person as well as virtual and hybrid events and meetings.
- Installation of Level 2 and 3 EV charging infrastructure in the Town Hall parking area.
The Putney Town Hall Renovation Fund helps to support this important project for PHS and the town.
Please support the project with a donation