Memorial Hall

Memorial Hall was built in 1871 to commemorate Civil War veterans from the Town of Essex. For many years it served as the town hall for Essex Center and the Masons held their meetings in the second floor hall. During the 1960s, the Essex Community Players made various repairs and changes to the building to accommodate small theatre productions. In the late 1980s a bond issue was passed and significant repairs and improvements were made to make the building more attractive for use as a community center in addition to the home of the Essex Players. A granite slate bearing these words appears above the main entrance to the hall:

In grateful remembrance of the brave soldiers of Essex who lost their lives in service of their country during the war for the preservation of the Union 1861 to 1865.

Fund Raising

The rental fees go toward the maintenance and operation of the building. The members of the Memorial Hall Committee feel that improvements to Memorial Hall should be through fundraising efforts. Current improvements are Window Quilts to hold heat inside of the building. These have cost $350 for each of the 12 windows. Donations and sponsorship from groups like the Essex Players, Essex Rotary, the Memorial Hall Committee and individual contributors have covered the expense of almost half of the window quilts.

We still need additional help to pay for the remainder. Your help is needed to raise funds. Donations can be made at the Town Hall to the Memorial Hall Fund, or contact any member of the Memorial Hall Committee. If you have ideas about fundraisers, please don't hesitate to call.

The Town received a grant that was used for upgrades to the interior of Memorial Hall, for more information view the Memorial Hall Upgrades (PDF).