![]() The Sandisfield Arts & Restoration Committee was Founded in 1995 to restore a unique historic building (1839) and transform it into a community arts center, providing quality educational and arts programming to the area. Originally a Baptist meeting house, then, in the 1900's, the only known rural synagogue in Massachusetts, the Sandisfield Arts center (as it is now known) is the oldest public building of its kind still standing in our town. Appreciated for its great acoustics and original decor, the Arts Center has been the site of many extraordinary performances. The last two years were ones of significant growth. Many building repairs and improvements were made including the addition of a new septic system, exhaust fans, seat cushions, and exterior signage. This spring, the roof restoration will be completed, thanks to a grant from the Massachusetts Historical ![]() Commission Preservation Fund and the National Trust. In memory of the late Len Dryansky, a new heating system will be installed so that we may continue to hold meetings, and programs into the fall and winter months. Membership has doubled, a new Board of Trustees meets regularly, and the volunteer staff continues to grow. As we look forward, we are confident we can raise the estimated $500,000 necessary to repair and restore the entire building. Support from the immediate community, as well as Southern Berkshire businesses and government representatives has been overwhelming. Special fundraisers such as the annual Historic House Tour and publishing of Anne Hoffman's book, Sandisfield: Biography of a Town are helping to raise matching grant funds. Our concert series provides operating expenses, while a capital campaign will furnish the bulk of the funds needed to obtain the larger grants in the next few years. We hope you will join us at our programs, in our volunteer efforts and in our fundraising endeavors.
e-mail: Xxtramktg@aol.com
![]()
|