Our building has had a long history including use as a church, a Grange hall, a healing arts center, and even an automotive repair location before becoming an arts center.
1833-1871
A Baptist church was established in Beaver Meadow, Norwich in 1833.
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1871-1913
In 1871, the Beaver Meadow church was demolished and some of the lumber moved to Sharon when the congregation relocated. It was used in the adjacent parsonage, and possibly included in the present Seven Stars structure, shown in this photo before the spire was removed. For over forty years the building housed the Sharon Baptist Church. |
1913-1978
The Sharon Grange was organized in 1909 with 31 charter members. In 1913 they purchased the building from the disbanded Baptist congregation for $1200. The Grange built the stage including the scenery sets (“stage curtains”), and installed the hardwood floor and seats prior to 1930.
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1978-2002
The Sharon Grange disbanded in 1978 and the building was sold. This was the time period when the building was used as a garage and for storage. In 1994 Seven Stars Center Inc., for the healing arts, was established by John and Mary Abele. At that time the stained glass windows in the front doors, depicting seven stars, were created by a couple in Pomfret. If anyone knows their names, we would love to know!
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2002-Today:
Scott Paulson and Barbara Smith initiated the purchase of the building in 2002 under the auspices of the Vermont Independent School of the Arts (VTISA). The School was founded by Scott and Barbara in response to widespread budget cuts in public school music education. The first VTISA board of directors had a vision - to provide affordable, accessible music and arts education that would meet the needs of students and families wanting to pursue the study of instrumental and vocal music. Some of the offerings at VTISA included Tai Chi and Yoga, in addition to a wide assortment of instrumental lessons. It was (and still is!) the home of the Panhandlers steel drum band.
In 2016 VTISA changed its name to the Seven Stars Arts Center. The site has been informally known as the “Seven Stars” building for many years. The name change also reflects that the mission of the organization has expanded its focus to include presenting concerts and other events in addition to classes. It is a wonderful venue for diverse forms of entertainment. Through community partnerships, sponsorships and fundraising, SSAC strives to make the arts accessible.
Scott Paulson and Barbara Smith initiated the purchase of the building in 2002 under the auspices of the Vermont Independent School of the Arts (VTISA). The School was founded by Scott and Barbara in response to widespread budget cuts in public school music education. The first VTISA board of directors had a vision - to provide affordable, accessible music and arts education that would meet the needs of students and families wanting to pursue the study of instrumental and vocal music. Some of the offerings at VTISA included Tai Chi and Yoga, in addition to a wide assortment of instrumental lessons. It was (and still is!) the home of the Panhandlers steel drum band.
In 2016 VTISA changed its name to the Seven Stars Arts Center. The site has been informally known as the “Seven Stars” building for many years. The name change also reflects that the mission of the organization has expanded its focus to include presenting concerts and other events in addition to classes. It is a wonderful venue for diverse forms of entertainment. Through community partnerships, sponsorships and fundraising, SSAC strives to make the arts accessible.
HELP US FILL IN THE GAPS IN OUR HISTORY:
We would love to know more about the history of the building and of the early days of the Vermont Independent School for the Arts (VTISA).
- Did you know any Grange members?
- We have heard about dances at the Grange – did you ever dance here, or hear stories from those who did?
- Can you tell us more about the healing center?
- Did you ever attend events here? Do you recall a particularly memorable concert or other event?
- Were you involved in classes at the VTISA?
- Do you have special memories of a teacher or class?
