Clarendon Heritage is excited to invite contractors to bid on work to restore Chapel 1871 in North Clarendon Village. We are looking for experienced vendors and tradesman for this projects.
For details, see the full request for proposals and online application. Apply
Please share the link to the request for proposals with any area tradesman that may be interested.
All proposals are due at midnight on January 15, 2026.
By Nicolette Asselin
Following a positive response at Town meeting, the Chapel 1871 is slowly taking its new look for it’s next purpose.
A vote is due to be held at next year’s years elections.
Here are the detailed updates.
Ceiling
Being evaluated for clean-up, stabilization and painting.
Windows
In November Clark’s Glass has replaced all the broken windows of the main hall. Next plan is to start on the front two windows and add external protection so all board can be removed to show one again the stain-glass windows of the Chapel.
Siding repairs
Next the siding will be prepared for painting that will start in Spring of 2026.
Clean out and flooring
A clean out is planned on December1st. Next, floors will be assessed for our next steps and office room will be giving priority to allow someone to work there.
Heating
Marcel Oil is looking for the best solution to store fuel oil. The furnace is actually working quite well. An assessment with Lohsen is on the agenda.
Back room, bathroom and back entrance
We have received quotes.
Leadership
New leadership is on it be way. We will do introductions shortly.
Feel free to post your questions.
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Clarendon has an important history that could bring Clarendon to a better place.
First it is important to secure needed services for its population. Given that the count is less than 25600 it can qualify for many support.
The town has several Village Centers that could be revived and used for the town’s benefits.
Village Center
VCLN:
The Vermont Council on Rural Development has several resources to assist communities group interested in trust projects.
Volunteers needed to create a team to prepare the North Clarendon for it’s rebirth as a Community Cultural and Social Club.
Volunteers are needed for:
October 27th, 2025 at Grange Hall, Clarendon Heritage (CH) will discuss again the repurposing of Chapel 1871 or North Clarendon Chapel.
The community would like to see a Citizen Cultural and Social Club. The chapel had been used as such during the early 1900 according to Steven Sorel. It would follow a known model of Oasis.
In order to achieve this goal Corpwell Foundation in charge of Clarendon Heritage, is asking on behalf of the community for acceptance of the plan and if accepted request from the town to cover some of the cost of repurposing the building to move ahead as the community is in urgent need of this service for it’s citizen.
2025 REPORT
To review past years progress or subscribe for News: Chapel1871.org
If you wish to speak please contact us.
National Registry Eligible, Chapel 1871, is going to have a solid roof. We have a dedicated roofer, Jim Mailhiot, who has offered, and been selected, to do the slate repairs and new standing seam back roof.
We have raised for this project 1/2 of what it will take to repair the slate and renew the back roofs. If you want to hear “Intact Bell of the North Clarendon Chapel” or be a key founder of the rebirth of North Clarendon we need another $6000. We have a matching grant. That is any amount given will be matched by the donor by year end. Read more
Bells have been symbolizing the center of town, life and cheers all around the world for centuries. Clarendon untouched village deserves to come to life again for local citizen to enjoy and gather. Read more
Efforts of the Historical Society of Clarendon Vermont has brought forth a world of images attesting to the uniqueness of our town. Visit their website to travel in history and see how laborious they are.
The Village Designation program supports the revitalization efforts of small and medium-sized historic centers. The designation brings financial incentives, training and technical assistance needed to attract vitality to Vermont’s smaller communities.
Chapel 1871 will have a solid roof so that we can proceed with other important application for grants to proceed with other repairs: Windows, painting etc… See history and plans.
Caves in Clarendon have been the best kept secret of the town. The Clarendon Historical Society published a video “A Walk to Clarendon Caves”.
Rutland Herald news
Decision is made to donate Chapel 1871 to Preservation Trust of Vermont.
Chapel Repair: Report
Will the intact Bell of Chapel 1871 in North Clarendon ring once more in years to come?
Neighbors and residents of Clarendon-rich with early settler’s history, have set their mind to restore the old Chapel to bring back their village.
Bringing back the history of the area would enhance its uniqueness, foster pride for residents for its yesteryears filled with wonders that started 10’000 years ago when the last glacier receded, and Native American moved in.
Fire warden Clayton Rockwell has volunteered to paint the southern end, Jim Theodore of ITT Properties offered to do split rails, Bronson Spencer a survey. Jackson Evans, a window restoration expert, assists with various aspect of the stain glass windows, a crucial component of this revival. Devin Colman, Architectural Historian, who has worked on several projects in the area such as the Kingsley Bridge and the Grist Mill has deemed the Chapel National Registry eligible.
An incentive for everyone to better their town, gardens, and homes.
So, what is there to lose? Increase cyclists exploring the rural roads of our beautiful region? Attract new residents who will enjoy, protect, and invest in this untouched Vermont dominion and enclave?
“Bringing back the history of the area would enhance its uniqueness, foster pride for residents for its yesteryears filled with wonders that started 10’000 years ago when the last glacier receded, and Native American moved in the territory. Give an incentive for everyone to better their town, gardens, and homes…” says: Nicolette Asselin Board member and grant writer for the project.
On July 27th, during the ‘Town-Wide Sale’ the Chapel will be open for viewing. Please stop by, visit, share your stories, perhaps you may want to get involved in this community effort to bring back our forgotten precious jewels. The repurposing of a neglected building could bring new life in the old village.
Questions: 802-468-7047
Address: 437 Old Route 7 North Clarendon, VT
CLARENDON Heritage 