Marie LeBlanc, president of the Friends of the Council on Aging talks with Sue Hildreth, right, about her experiences staying at her grandparents’ house during childhood summers. (Photo by Lisa Aciukewicz)

The Council on Aging and the Friends of the Council on Aging celebrated a flurry of renovations made to the Hildreth House with a community open house last Sunday, June 24. Those in attendance listened to Harvard’s own Dixie Land Band, took historical tours of the house led by Nancy Reifenstein, and joined in informational walks around the grounds under the guidance of John Lee. Artist Janet Fowke unveiled 25 signed pen-and-ink drawings of the house and sold note cards bearing the print as well.

Building restoration efforts included new siding, insulation, and a new roof. Inside, lighting and carpeting were added and upgraded, and years of ceiling damage repaired. In addition, the fire alarm and water supply systems were brought up to modern standards. Money for the improvements came from the Community Preservation Fund. The fund, which is supported by a 1.1 percent surcharge on local property taxes and matched by equivalent state monies, is dedicated to preserve open space, restore historic landmarks, and provide affordable housing.

Volunteer work was also crucial to the restoration effort. The Friends of the Hildreth House dedicated many hours of volunteer work to the grounds, clearing overgrown gardens and lawn. Stanley’s Path, an old pathway leading from the Hildreth House to the Common, was also restored. The Worcester County sheriff department’s work release program provided painting for the wraparound porch.

The Hildreth House, located at 15 Elm Street, was built in 1895 by Stanley Hildreth. The shingle-style home served as the summer cottage for the family, who made their year-round residence in Cambridge. The town bought the home and approximately five acres in 1979, but the building went unused for many years and fell into disrepair. In the 1980s, the Sixty-Plus Club, led by such longtime residents as Charlie and Rose Perkins, Bob and Claire L’Hereux, and Hans Ohlin, received permission from the Board of Selectmen to use the house for senior citizen activities. After years of hard work and many improvements, the house was reclaimed as a community center for Harvard’s seniors.

For information on the sale of prints and cards, or volunteer opportunities with the Council on Aging, call Ginger Quarles at 978-456-4120.

Hildreth House. (Illustration by Janet Fowke )