Thanks to a last minute $35,000 donation, the Damariscotta Baptist Church Steeple will go up this year after all, according to fundraising chairman Walter Hilton.
Hilton’s announcement this week caps what has been yes-it-will, no-it-won’t series of announcements made by Landmark Steeple Fund Committee members over the last three weeks.
Most recently, based on the then known finances, last week Hilton said the steeple would not go up this year.
The large donation was given by Maxine L. Wright, 94, of Portland, who lived in Damariscotta for 30 years and volunteered many hours for the community. The owner of Spring Meadow Farm in Bristol, Wright served as Treasurer of the Miles Memorial Hospital League and volunteered on numerous occasions at the hospital.
“My donation is a result of my love for the community and the people who are instrumental in providing memories both inspirational and unforgettable,” said Wright in a statement.
“She just wants people to be happy,” said Hilton.
According to Hilton, the steeple will now be raised in the next few weeks. The mood among the fundraising committee is now one of joy and relief.
“I was so emotional yesterday. It’s been a rollercoaster ride,” said Hilton.
Though the money required to raise the steeple has been raised, around $4400 is still required to repair the steeple’s clock and other incidentals. Money will still be collected outside the Maine Coast Book Shop.
