The historic 1861 church at Orwell Corner Historic Village is once again open for business, hosting its first concert in almost 50 years.
Not only was the church forced to shut down for repairs the last few summers after ants damaged the structure, for the last 47 years it was also under strict instructions not to host ceremonies such as weddings or events like concerts.
"It's long overdue and it's great that we can start using it," said Jim Culbert.
Culbert is on the board of the Orwell Corner Pioneer Village Corporation, which helps oversee operations and raises funds for improvements to the historic village — part of P.E.I.'s network of small, local museums...
...There were five United churches in the area that amalgamated 47 years ago, Culbert explains, forming one congregation at St. Andrews United in Vernon Bridge. The small churches were decommissioned and several were torn down, with the one at Orwell being allowed to stand — as long as it was used only for display...
There's no electricity at the church, so the concert will be lit with help from generators, Boys-Leath explains. The board hopes to eventually fundraise enough money to install discreet electricity in the structure.
Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door, through Orwell Corner or Beaconsfield Historic House in Charlottetown.
From CBC News