With the beginning of the new year exciting transformations are happening at Watts Hall in Thomaston. Resulting from the conscientious and collaborative efforts of Watts Hall Community Players, Watts Hall Community Arts, Watts Block Trustees, and the Town of Thomaston, several grants and other funding sources have been secured to fund an extensive Watts Hall renovation project that got underway in late 2025.

These restoration partners have been successful in procuring grants from the National Park Service for Historic Preservation, the Federal Northern Border Regional Commission, and the Davis Foundation – all supplemented by TIF funding from the Town of Thomaston. In full, approximately $1,074,000 has been raised and dedicated to this modernization and historic preservation project.

These constellations of funds will be used to modernize and preserve a cornerstone of Thomaston’s downtown economy and community life. The initiative will implement energy-efficient climate control, safety and accessibility upgrades, and interior refinishing to maintain the historic character of the hall, while ensuring the building remains a competitive space for businesses, events, art performances, and civic engagement.

With confirmed grant awards and formal authorizations to proceed with the expenditure of funds, the Thomaston Select Board entered into a contractal agreement with JF Scott Construction on November 11 th to comprehensively manage the overall project with highlighted features including:

 Installation of a new energy-efficient Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) system,

 Modernization of bathroom facilities,

 Newly installed catering preparation area to support community events and private functions,

 Plaster, woodwork, and floor refinishing,

 Restoration of historically significant architectural features previously obscured or covered over,

 Extensive electrical and plumbing upgrades.

 While not included in the overall grant funded project, additional funding has also been secured to upgrade the building’s elevator.

Since 1890 Watts Hall has been, and as a result of these renovation efforts, will continue to be, a historical treasure serving the Midcoast Community. A rejuvenated Watts Hall will be available to reserve or rent for weddings, corporate events, art performances, birthday/family parties and gatherings, and more, following the completion of restoration efforts – anticipated for March of 2026.

Individuals or groups seeking additional information regarding the utilization or rental arrangement for Watts Hall are encouraged to contact Kendray Rodriguez, Thomaston Economic Development Coordinator at the Thomaston Town Office. (207-350-6633 or krodriguez@thomastonmaine.gov)

Watts Hall - Enriching Community Life & the Arts in Midcoast Maine Since 1890!