$172,000 LCHIP Grant Triumph for Effingham Project
EFFINGHAM — In a significant announcement made on Monday, Governor Chris Sununu, alongside the New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP), revealed the allocation of $3.7 million in matching grants. These funds are set to bolster 25 key land conservation and historic preservation projects throughout New Hampshire.
This substantial grant package is a major boost for the state’s conservation and preservation efforts. It includes plans to rehabilitate 12 historic buildings, ensuring their structural integrity and historical value are maintained for future generations. Additionally, the grants will play a crucial role in the permanent conservation of over 4,300 acres of land across all 10 counties of the state. This land, comprising farms, timberlands, and areas of ecological significance, represents a vital part of New Hampshire’s natural heritage and biodiversity.
Among the noteworthy recipients of this funding is the town of Effingham, which, in collaboration with the Effingham Preservation Society, has been awarded a grant of $172,000. This grant is earmarked for the repair, restoration, and rehabilitation of a significant historical structure in the town — the 1858 New England Masonic Charitable Institute building. This iconic post-and-beam building, known for its distinctive six-story bell tower and cupola, is a landmark of historical and architectural importance in the region.
The New England Masonic Charitable Institute building, with its rich history and unique architectural features, is a symbol of Effingham’s cultural heritage. The grant will enable the town and the Effingham Preservation Society to undertake crucial restoration work. This includes structural repairs to preserve the building’s integrity and aesthetic restoration to maintain its historical character. The project aims not only to refurbish the building but also to revitalize it as a community asset, ensuring it continues to serve as a testament to the town’s history and as a beacon of community pride.
Governor Sununu’s involvement in the announcement underscores the state government’s commitment to preserving New Hampshire’s historical and natural assets. The LCHIP grants represent a significant investment in the state’s cultural and environmental legacy, reflecting a broader effort to protect and celebrate New Hampshire’s rich heritage.
In summary, the allocation of $3.7 million in LCHIP grants marks a pivotal moment for conservation and historic preservation in New Hampshire. The funding will aid in the rehabilitation of historic buildings and the conservation of vital land areas, with the Effingham project being a prime example of the initiative’s impact. Through these efforts, New Hampshire continues to demonstrate its dedication to safeguarding its historical structures and natural landscapes for the enjoyment and education of future generations.
