MONTEZUMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
In 2004 the Town of Montezuma appointed a preservation committee whose mission was to to identify immediate and future needs to preserve, protect and restore the Church; to research funding resources and implement plans for acquiring needed financial support; and to consider potential uses for the benefit of the community
To continue the efforts of preservation of the Church in 2006, the Montezuma Historical Society was chartered through the New York State Education Department. A ten-year lease was formed with the Town of Montezuma to hold meetings, sponsor historical programs and help support its preservation.
2010-2011 Board of
Trustees
President: Edward Laraway; Vice President: Bob Melvin; Secretary: Cheryl Longyear; Treasurer: Barbara Black; Trustees: Roberta & Paul Baker, Stan Longyear, Cynthia Laraway
Our Mission
The Montezuma Historical Society fosters local community pride in our heritage to ensure that our history
will be preserved and appreciated for generations to come. We are committed to encouraging public interest by sponsoring historical
meetings, educational programs, and supporting preservation of our historical resources.
Our Vision
Through the preservation of the Historic Mentz Church, the Montezuma Historical Society will educate and inspire the
Community to share our history and the importance of its
Erie Canal Heritage.
Our Success:
The Town of Montezuma acquired the Historic Mentz Church in 2003. The church had been closed since 1954, and through the dedicated efforts of a long standing member, Lester Ohara and the Mentz Fidelius group the church has survived with a high degree of integrity. Lester and volunteers twice white washed the church, replaced the roof in the 1970s, protected the windows and maintained the church grounds.
In 2005, volunteers removed the unusable kerosene stove, stove piping, wallpaper, restored the electricity, repaired windows, restored the original doors, cleaned, painted the ceiling and walls. Two original lights found in the church attic have been restored: one, a Coleman 1919 Chandelier and the other, a Bradley and Hubbard 1877 Oil Chandelier. New front steps and railings were replaced. In 2009, the Town of Montezuma funded a new roof. Efforts continue to preserve, restore and maintain the church. Future work projects being considered are foundation repair, installing a handicap ramp, window preservation, parking lot and an addition to the cemetery. .
Montezuma Historical Society Church Activities & Offerings:
- Tours and Visits by Appointment
- Seasonal Events
- Programs by Special Arrangement
- Unique Wedding Venue Open to the Public
Reasons to Support the Montezuma Historical Society
By supporting the continuing efforts of the MHS you are:
Insuring the long term preservation and use of the church as a cultural and historical resource. Your annual Membership entitles you to the following benefits:
- Periodic Newsletter
- Complimentary unlimited admission to the church
- A preservation voice in the community
- A contribution to our community's preservation
- An opportunity to connect with other families connected to the church
Please take a moment to show your support by completing the form below!
Contact: cml115@tds.net