Historic Downstreet, a registered nonprofit on Vinalhaven, began in 2011 when a dozen concerned citizens embarked on an effort to save an archaeological historic Main Street structure on Vinalhaven from being lost at auction. The former Knights of Pythius Hall at 30 Main Street had been foreclosed upon by a bank and the date of the resultant auction announced.
At the last minute, those who owned it at the time managed to avoid foreclosure and Historic Downstreet, having raised significant money for its acquisition, turned its attention to a less litigious artifact, The Old Engine House, which was very much in need of restoration.
Built in 1886 on land made available by a local icon, Reuben Carver, it was to house our first steam fire engine and served as the town’s fire station for 100 years or so until the town built a larger (and not nearly as appealing) structure elsewhere.
Recognition requires that such a district be an area of historical importance to the town and to the property owners within that district.
We did research, obtained estimates, raised the necessary additional funds, and immediately undertook the work, with one of our own serving as clerk of the works.
On the Fourth of July 2014, we presented the finished product to the town at a lovely and fitting ceremony in honor of Bodine Ames, who had devoted many selfless years to keeping the fire hall—and other island properties—presentable. The Engine House still houses “Old Reuben,” the original steam engine, which is now and then hauled out for the Fourth of July parade.
Idle then for several years, Historic Downstreet regrouped some time ago and our perspective has broadened. We’d like to create a Historic District to recognize, honor, and raise awareness of the unique historic significance of our downtown area—the Main Street neighborhood roughly bounded by the Union Church to the east and the Legion Hall to the west—and to encourage the preservation of certain distinctive properties within that area by documenting their history and relevance.
Five downtown structures have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places for many years. They are the Star of Hope Lodge, The Galamander, Vinalhaven Public Library, Union Church of Vinalhaven, and the Moses Webster House.
Recognition requires that such a district be an area of historical importance to the town and to the property owners within that district.
Too many of us are unaware of the island’s intriguing history, particularly as it relates to this area that has our attention.
After all, the island’s history, like much of municipal history elsewhere, is not taught in school and not nearly enough or nothing is often learned at home.
To be aware of all that, and all who came before, and all that was overcome and accomplished, leaves one with an entirely new and valuable perspective and a precious appreciation for all that was accomplished to make it possible for us to be where we find ourselves today.
While official recognition will come from the Maine Preservation Commission and the National Register of Historic Places, such designation is entirely honorary and does not restrict the rights of property owners in any way. In fact, the opportunity for certain tax incentives are often a benefit of such a designation.
Such recognition requires the endorsement of 51% of the property owners within that district but Historic Downstreet would feel much better with 100% support. There are 30 individual landlords involved and so far, we’ve made contact with over half. Each of those has given their enthusiastic approval.
A few of the properties within the district are owned by the town. They are the War Memorial, the aforementioned engine house, the old jail, the former net factory site, the Vinalhaven Public Library, the Galamander, and a portion of “Ray’s Field.”
As soon as the opportunity presents itself, the town intends to present a warrant article calling for community approval of this effort. We ask that our fellow islanders give us that endorsement.
Phil Crossman lives on Vinalhaven. He may be contacted at PhilCrossman.vh@gmail.com.
