Historical Society raises funds for Opera House elevator

The Jamestown Area Historical Society is hoping community members will give the latest Opera House renovation project a lift.

The organization hopes to raise $65,000 for an elevator that can carry people needing assistance from the first floor to the main auditorium.

We have people whod like to come (to opera house events), but they cant climb those stairs, said Ted Sesslar, president of the historical society. He said that three flights of stairs lead to the auditorium.

The renovation of the opera house has been an ongoing project over the past decade since the Jamestown Area Historical Society began leasing the building.

When we took over the building, it was in shambles, Sesslar said. It needed a new roof.

The opera house, built in 1889, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

With about $350,000 in federal, state, and county grants as well as private donations and fundraisers, the historical society has made major repairs and renovations to the building, according to Sesslar.

Renovations and repairs have included replacing the roof, window replacements, exterior brick and facade renovations, HVAC and electrical upgrades, painting and plastering the auditorium, and refinishing and installing chairs in the auditorium.

The building, which seats about 300 people, is being used for weddings, school plays, and all types of musical performances. In addition, the Greene County Council on Aging operates a Senior Citizens Citizen in a space in the building.

Sesslar said installing an elevator is estimated to cost $65,000. It also could help move people and stage equipment to the auditorium.

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Historical Society raises funds for Opera House elevator