History
On
January 5, 1921, a small group of women officially committed themselves
to the concept that "a
house big enough for dances, mass meetings, concerts and plays" was
needed in the community, and they pledged to raise funds to establish
such a center.
In April 1923, they rented a small house on the corner of Bates and
Maple, officially establishing the first Community House.

When the community recognized the need for a larger establishment, a
campaign was initiated and on April 28, 1930, The Community House on
Bates Street opened to the public. The original structure covered the
area from Townsend Street on the south to the middle of the block, where
the center chimney is now, on the north. The rest of the building (from
the center chimney to Merrill Street) was added in October 1990.

In its almost 90 years of existence, in spite of overwhelming changes in
our society, The Community House has stayed true to its mission of building
a strong community. People of all ages and interests continue to be served
by the many and varied programs and services offered by The Community
House.
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