Raising the Roof in Wolfville

Special fundraising concert planned for Nov. 25

For about 15 years, asphalt shingles have been flying off the roof and the spire of the Wolfville Baptist Church.

The brick church was topped with slate shingles in 1912 that stayed the course. Trustee Mark Crosby says the original slate was worn and needed to be replaced.

Unfortunately, he said, the asphalt required constant repairs.

Sandy MacMillan, who is also a trustee, noted that depending on the weather they were constantly chasing leaks.

“There were a dozen every year, fall and spring. It was a nightmare,” he said, describing his efforts to protect the second-floor organ pipes from water.

The wind off the dykes hit the 80-foot tall steeple hard and the trustees have also wondered if the construction of the Beveridge Arts Centre created a wind tunnel.

So, the congregation recently decided to invest in metal roofing. It will be costly, estimates are $160,000 for the work that is now in process atop the peaks and Callie’s of the old structure.

Judy MacMillan, who is chairperson of the Social and Benevolent group, says a number of fundraising projects are well underway. A turkey dinner recently fed 120 people. Another one, ham this time, is planned for Dec. 12. A silent auction is underway.

On Nov. 25, an afternoon jazz concert entitled Raise the Roof will also help raise much needed funds. Among the well-known local musicians taking part will be vocalist Hazel Walker, singer and keyboard player Graham Howes and bass player Nicolas D’amato.

Walker says the music will be seasonal for the lead up to Christmas and should entertain all.

Tickets are available at the Box of Delights and at the door of the 2 p.m. concert.