the 162 year old building that is bringing new life to its small town

By Chelsea Bray- Elle A. Design

​Many residents of Champaign County may be familiar with the 1858 Meeting House, but did you know it is the oldest public building in Mechanicsburg? Constructed it 1858 by the Methodist Episcopal Church the building later served as the African American Second Baptist Church. The building is currently undergoing a full restoration.

​The Champaign Country Preservation Alliance (CCPA) acquired the building and is working to restore the 1858 Meeting House to its historical specifications. Many of the first-floor restorations have been completed and the building currently hosts community events throughout the year. Their next focuses are going to be restoring all eight of the windows to their original specification and complete a brick by brick tuck point restoration of the exterior.   

​The goal of the project is to create a venue for community events. They also run a concert series at the Meeting House featuring the Madison Choral Singers. The space is available to rent for public forums, private events, weddings and concerts. This restoration is creating an amazing place for community right here in Champaign County!
 
The CCPA is currently seeking donations for the window restoration and brick restoration projects. To learn more about the restoration or to donate you can go to their website www.ccpapreserveohio.org/1858-meeting-house.html you can also find them on Facebook at 1858 Meeting House.