The Meridian Historical Village is preparing to build a $250,000, 1,750 square foot replica of Meridian Township’s 1870 Methodist Episcopal building.
The Meridian Historical Village represents “old Meridian Township” and was put together 34 years ago when several of Meridian Township’s oldest buildings were in danger of being torn down. The Friends of Historic Meridian stepped in, rescued the buildings, restored them and created a mock village. Seven buildings, including a farmhouse, windmill, log cabin and general store, are included in the collection.
“Even from the first concept of rescuing and restoring buildings, we had hoped to find a little community church to move in there because the village really isn’t complete without a village church,” says Jane Rose, with the Friends of Historic Meridian.
Moving and maintaining historical buildings is extremely expensive. Constructing a new building will save moving and maintenance costs, Rose says.
“The secondary benefit, which is more long term, is our ability to perhaps rent that (the church) out for weddings and generate more revenue that will go toward our maintenance fund,” she says.
Rose says the church will have a 256 square foot porch. The Friends of Historic Meridian is hoping to break ground on the project in October.
Source: Jane Rose, Friends of Historic Meridian
Ivy Hughes, development news editor, can be reached here.
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