Thomaston – Watts Hall Community Arts proudly announces a significant boost to its capital campaign with a generous $25,000 contribution from First National Bank. The capital campaign’s focus is to provide for the much-needed renovation of Watts Hall, a cherished community gathering space since the early 1900s.
Watts Hall, situated within the historic Watts Block building on Main Street in Thomaston, stands as a testament to the town’s cultural heritage. Originally donated in 1890 by Captain Samuel Watts, the building faced adversity with a destructive fire in June 1915. Through the determination of Captain Watts’ daughter, Mary Jane Watts, the community rallied to rebuild Watts Hall in honor of the late Captain Watts. Previously home to the town’s police department and town offices, Watts Hall has transformed into a vital hub for music, theater, dance, and community events.
Charles Grover, Chairman of the Board of Watts Hall Community Arts, emphasized the significance of First National Bank’s support. “Watts Hall Community Arts is grateful for the generosity and leadership of First National Bank in its gift of $25,000. Through this gift we will be able to begin to restore our historic theater allowing Watts Hall to be the center of cultural activity for Midcoast Maine.” Tony McKim, President and CEO of First National Bank noted, “Keeping our downtowns vibrant is so important. We are pleased to make this donation to Watts Hall Community Arts and look forward to seeing their new space.”
Watts Hall Community Arts invites businesses, community members, and supporters to join in this historic preservation effort. For more information on how to contribute, please contact Charles Grover at cwg007@gmail.com.
About Watts Hall Community Arts:
Watts Hall Community Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization entrusted by the Town of Thomaston to oversee and promote the use of the second floor of the historic Watts Block building. Committed to preserving the cultural legacy of Thomaston, Watts Hall Community Arts facilitates a diverse range of private and public events in this iconic downtown space.
About First National Bank:
First National Bank, a subsidiary of The First Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: FNLC) is an independent community bank with 18 offices in Lincoln, Knox, Waldo, Hancock, Washington and Penobscot Counties. For more information about First National Bank, please call 1-800-564-3195 or visit www.thefirst.com.
[Photo courtesy of Watts Hall Community Arts. Members of the WHCA Board and Capital Campaign Committee pictured from left to right: Brendan Farrell, Charles Grover, Kendray Rodriguez, Cathy Harn, Necole Janczura, Dagney Ernest, Pen Williamson, Bill Hahn, Susan Grover, and Sherre Wilson-Liljegren.]
