Stencils

Stencil Restoration Project 2004-2005

Bradford Center Meetinghouse stencils became the focus of restoration efforts by the Union Congregational Society in 2004. The interior walls and ceiling were in particular need of repair. Underneath the peeling paint, fragments of the original decorations (circa 1870) were visible. 

By chance, USC board members George and Marge Cilley, stumbled across a restored church in Post Mills, Vermont that reminded them of our Meetinghouse. Upon inquiry, the Cilley’s found the restoration painter, Leonard Holmes Spencer. He was willing to tackle the Bradford Center Meetinghouse project. 

In the fall of 2004, Spencer’s team began the process of uncovering the Meetinghouse’s hidden stencils and original paint colors by gently scraping the fragile ceiling and wall plaster. The original work (still visible in the stairwell) reflected standard stencils of the era, as befitting the budget of a farming community. Spencer traced the designs, cut new stencils, and hand painted the patterns. 

The UCS acknowledged the generosity of over 150 donors at the grand reopening celebration on June 22, 2005. The event, sponsored by the UCS and the Bradford Historical Society, included a potluck supper and talk by Leonard Holmes Spencer. 

Restoration Team: Leonard Holmes Spencer, James Douglas, Dave Graham, Dave Morrison, Cerelia Spencer, Jonathan Spenser, Chris Warenburg. 

The Friends of the Bradford Center Meetinghouse are dedicated to preserving this vital landmark, retaining its historic integrity, while also making it accessible to the public for entertainment, enlightenment, and education. 

UCS Board 2005: Marge & George Cilley, Edythe Craig, Bob Blank, Linda Cansler, Marcia & Dick Keller, Carey Rodd