Handicapped Entry Elevator

A Real ‘High’ For Meeting House Patrons

By Nancy K. Crevier

Due to the generosity and foresight of a longtime Newtown resident, Mary A. Mitchell, and Brookfield voice instructor Pamela J. Hoffman, handicapped access to the Meeting House on Main Street in Newtown became a reality Monday, January 4. The need for handicapped access to the building had been under discussion for some time, said Heritage Preservation Trust, Inc manager Sherry Paisley, and in recent years, the need has grown more urgent. The project had not been undertaken because of the lack of funding and a plan for the best way to proceed.

In June of 2007, Mrs Mitchell made a substantial gift to the Heritage Preservation Trust, Inc, which maintains and improves the Newtown Meeting House, specifically to establish a Handicapped Access Fund. Mrs Mitchell told Preservation board members, “I got angry because I wasn’t able to take advantage of the cultural programs which were being presented. So I decided to do something about it.”

Shortly thereafter, Ms Hoffman, who uses the space for her vocal programs, heard about Mrs Mitchell’s pledge and quickly became involved. She proposed a series of fundraising concerts, and in the ensuing two years, has arranged for many talented professionals to perform gratis, with all proceeds benefiting the Handicapped Access Fund.

As monetary gifts began to mount up, the trustees realized that through this cooperative financial effort, it would be realistic to proceed. An architect was hired, and plans were presented and approved. Work began on the elevator in September 2009. The historical aspect for the Meeting House was kept in mind during the construction of the lift and great care was taken that the original structure would remain intact, said Ms Paisley. The building is considered the geographical and historic center of Newtown, she said.

Both Mrs Mitchell and Ms Hoffman recognized the need and “did something about it,” said Ms Paisley.

On Monday, Heritage Preservation Trust President Donald Studley joined Ms Paisley, Mrs Mitchell, Ms Hoffman, and John Madzula of JSM Associates in Newtown, contractor for the installation of the new lift, for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the handicapped access elevator. Accompanied by her son-in-law John Evans of Newtown, Mrs Mitchell took the maiden voyage in the lift from the lower level of the Meeting House to the main level.

“I had no idea what an impact I would have,” said Mrs Mitchell. “It’s amazing.”

 Making no change to the exterior appearance of the building, the handicapped lift, entered from the side door on West Street, rises from the ground level to the sanctuary, allowing easy access to seating.

All of the funding for the project came from local sources. Heritage Preservation Trust is a 501 (c)(3 corporation, allowing donors to use their gifts as tax deductions.

 The handicapped entry elevator is dedicated in honor of Mary A. Mitchell and in memory of K. Michael Hoffman, Ms Hoffman’s late husband.