Seven to Save 2023: Orford Congregational Church

The ceiling of the Orford Congregational Church collapsed in the spring of 2007. The dramatic event launched the congregation into action and the church undertook a multi-year restoration campaign, funded by insurance and $100,000 in local donations. The new sanctuary ceiling boasted restored features long covered by a later ceiling, including stenciling, a plaster medallion, and a kerosene chandelier hidden for generations in the attic. The project reignited interest in the church and Sunday attendance grew. It was a success story and the Preservation Alliance awarded the church with a preservation achievement award in 2010.

The 1855 Gothic Revival building was designed by local architect Moses Wood and is an anchor in the Orford National Register Historic District, itself a significant collection of 18th and early 19th century buildings along the banks of the Connecticut River. Architectural details include Gothic diamond paned windows, pinnacles, trefoil banding, an octagonal spire, and one of only seven tower clocks made by Boscawen clock maker Benjamin Morrill.

Fast forward to 2023 and the congregation has struggled with a different type of collapse – that of Sunday attendance. Like most churches across the state, changing demographics and the lingering effects of the pandemic have disrupted traditional worship. Today, the congregation of fewer than ten active members is trying to steward two historic churches, and is looking to downsize to their smaller church in the village of Orfordville, several miles away.

At town meeting in 2023, voters approved a measure to study the possibility of the town accepting ownership of the historic church, which includes a kitchen, gathering space, former classrooms, offices, and a new septic system. That committee is now looking into various rehabilitation options including community space, a united town library, and even a theater or performance venue.

This listing seeks to highlight the trend of declining church membership and its implications for New Hampshire’s many iconic houses of worship. The loss of churches also has ramifications for the important social services and community networking that happens under their roofs.

The hope for the Orford Church is the adoption of a creative and sympathetic new use that allows the community to continue to enjoy the significant building. The Preservation Alliance is committed to helping with planning, providing funding solutions and case studies. The Alliance is also here to ensure the congregation settles into their new permanent home in Orfordville, knowing that the other home they stewarded for nearly 170 years is in safe hands.

Stay up to date on this program, including when submissions open for next year’s list, and browse listees from past years (we’ve been highlighting endangered properties since 2006!) by visting the Seven to Save homepage.

Are you part of a group involved with one of our previous listees? We’d love to hear how you’re doing! Call us at (603) 224-2281 or email seventosave@nhpreservation.org.