More Information About Newton Academy Restoration

The Newton Academy Restoration Committee has been active for several years. Some grants have been received (to stabilize the cupola), some volunteer work has been completed (cleaning up the building and removing the porch from the south ell) and some work has been contracted from funds raised by the committee.

Newton Academy was built in 1810 and remains one of the oldest higher education schools still standing in the State of Vermont. It has long been a focal point of the village common and has served the community well as a private school, public school and complete educational facility with grades from 1 through 12, finally closing doors on Shoreham High School in 1969.

The plan is to stabilize and restore the building so that it may forever be a landmark and utilize it so it will generate a good portion of its upkeep from clients. This year we contracted for a structural analysis of the building. Information from this report is included with this letter, called Phases of the Project.

We need your help. Our goal is to raise as much money as possible through individual contributions, but at least $160,000 (which would be 20% of the projects anticipated costs). The gurus of historic preservation say we should raise 40 - 50% of the costs through contributions.

The Town of Shoreham will be the fiscal agent for the project. All donations are tax deductible and may be pledged and honored in two or three installments. Appreciated assets such as securities and estate bequests will all provide an opportunity for local support.

Many new and long time residents express an absence of community life that was present when times were less hectic and fewer people commuted to work away from the town. It is hoped by making the Newton Academy building a center for many of the village and town activities, neighbors will again know neighbors.

Sincerely yours,

The Newton Academy Restoration Committee

All donations are tax deductible and can be sent to:

Newton Academy Restoration
c/o Shoreham Town Treasurer
297 Main Street
Shoreham, VT 05770

Click here to obtain a donation form online