Publicly Owned Endangered Historic Resources
The Grange Building/Ashby Academy
Built in 1820 as the Congregational Church and subsequently used as Ashby Academy, Watatic Hall, Town Offices, school gymnasium and Grange Hall. History of the Grange Building
Problems:
- Exterior building deterioration,
- Interior building deterioration,
- Electrical and plumbing system code violation,
- Drainage issues.
- Sewage disposal system substandard.
Actions taken:
- 2015 Building Evaluation Report, Paul Lieneck, AIA
- 2023 Survey of residents on preferred use of the building.
- 2024 Volunteers clean out debris from the building.
- 2024 Grant of $110,000 received from Rural Development Fund to provide plans and specifications suitable for permits to restore the building and bring it up to code.
Old Burial Ground
Given to the Town in 1770 by Jonathan Lawrence. It is the resting place of many of the town’s early inhabitants. The earlier headstones are of slate and later ones of marble. Problems: Tilting and falling headstones, deterioration of marble headstones, moss and lichen on headstones. Actions taken: Removal of dying trees, Lyman tomb scheduled for restoration.
Trap Falls Brook Stone Arch Bridge
The 1860 Trap Falls Brook Stone Arch Bridge is a granite block bridge arching over the Trap fall Brook adjacent to Route 31/Greenville Road. Problems: Access limited by MassDOT, tree and shrub growth in structure. Actions taken: none.
Ashby Free Public Library
The original building was donated to the Town in 1902 by Edwin Chapman. A major addition was made to the back of the building in 2002. The building is in the neoclassical style with the exterior of brick and stone. Generally the building is in good condition. Problems: Mortar loss in the masonry and preservation of the windows. Storm windows are helping slow deterioration of the windows.
Ashby Town Clock
The Ashby town clock is generally in good condition with the exception of the clock faces. Restoration of the faces is planned for 2024.