Sherburne Hall
A Place for Community and the Arts in Pelham

[ Home ]

1.  Why does Pelham need a room like Sherburne Hall?

In 2001 some two hundred citizens came together on a weekend to create a vision of what they would like Pelham to be. Among the top five most important issues, was a community center where civic and cultural activities could come together to create a better Pelham.  The town's ten year Master Plan (see Page VI-18, Cultural/Recreation Center)  also highlighted the need for a town culture center.  These needs were identified due to the lack of suitable community space for the arts and other activities vital to a community in which people want to live.

2.  Who would be served by Sherburne Hall?

The Hall will serve needs of a variety of existing groups and will provide fertile ground for new groups that do not yet exist.  It will be used for small-scale community theater productions, potluck dinners, award ceremonies, poetry contests, art exhibitions, chorale groups, senior citizens activities, and uses limited only by imagination.  Sherburne Hall also will be used for municipal meetings such as Selectmen and Planning Board.

3.  Why was the gymnasium/cafeteria of the Sherburne School selected for the use?

The original plan for this space was to paint it, clean it and start to use it.  Some citizens realized that since the space already exists, it could be remodeled into an attractive multi-use facility that would help to serve the need for a community room without having the costs of starting from the ground up.  In addition, some former faculty members and students at Sherburne School were concerned that the fondly remembered Sherburne name would be lost as the Municipal Center was developed in the space formerly occupied by the school.

4.  Will the stage be renovated for larger productions?

We are planning to refurbish the stage to increase its usefulness for small-scale productions.  To go beyond that would require extensive and costly renovations which we did not see as practical at this time.  The intention is to maintain the intimacy of the hall and stage while greatly improving the comfort and atmosphere in the hall.

5.  What is the Capital Campaign for Sherburne Hall

The Capital Campaign is an intensive fund raising effort for the community to create Sherburne Hall.  The committee will be seeking private contributions from the greater Pelham community, including corporations, foundations and individuals.

6.  What is the goal of the campaign and the total cost of the project?

The Sherburne Hall Committee established the public campaign goal of $335,000 in 2004.  This goal will cover all of the project costs.  Project costs will not be covered through tax dollars.

7.  What are the components of Sherburne Hall?

General Improvements
Overall upgrades of lighting and HVAC, to increase the efficiency and reduce operating costs, security improvements and sprinkler system.

Interior Improvements
The current rendering depicts a greatly increased articulated ceiling, windows/walls, (kitchen), carpet pattern, and sidewall lighting scheme plan.

Exterior Improvements
Brick walkway leading to the main entrance of the Hall

8.  How will the campaign funds be allocated?

9.  When will the renovation begin?

Once the architects are selected for the project we expect it to be completed in 9 months.

10.  Is it possible for the community to raise $335,000?

Definitely.  The overall goal is clearly ambitious but campaign leaders, key donors, and the community as a whole have demonstrated they are eager to see this project through.

11.  Are alternative ways of giving possible?

By all means.  In addition to cash contributions, the campaign encourages the gift of stocks and bonds, other negotiable securities, and gifts through estate plans.  For complete details on the benefits of giving through these and other vehicles, please contact a campaign member or your tax advisor.

12.  Are the gifts tax deductible?

Yes, they are.  All gifts and fully tax deductible to the extent provided by law.  Of course, if you are considering a gift you should ask your tax advisor for advice and assistance in determining the most appropriate and advantageous way to make your contribution.

13.  Are opportunities available for Named of Memorial gifts?

Yes.  The campaign has numerous opportunities for naming and memorial gifts at various levels.  Contact a campaign committee member for full details.

14.  How can I obtain further information about the Capital Campaign?

Please call the Pelham Town Hall (603) 508-3000 and ask for the Sherburne Hall committee in the Selectmen's office.  Someone from the Committee will return your call as soon as possible.