BY JIM O’CONNOR, Hammond Hope

HAMMOND -- A group of Hammond citizens has big plans for the Old Hammond Town Hall and Opera House.

When the town moved its library and town offices to the new structure in 2022, it left behind a sturdy, empty building with the opera house preserved and intact, within the 1915 structure. A balcony, rows of wooden theatre seats, the stage, proscenium, and backstage remain intact, and unused for the past 3 years.

With a vision and a purpose, a grass-roots effort is underway to bring the building back to a full, productive life.

“We have a group of dedicated and talented people who are determined to see this through,” said Pam Burton, Hammond Town Clerk. “With the support of the town board, we are moving forward with grant applications, regular meetings, discussions and community input to get the ball rolling.”

To that end, a group of volunteers has formed HOPE (Hammond Opens Possibilities for Everyone) to begin outreach for community involvement. The HOPE team is meeting monthly to co-ordinate this effort, and to develop the resources to restore the old town hall to a fully functional creative arts performance center.

With the neighboring Pickens Opera House and the Clayton Opera House as successful models of historical preservation and successful arts planning, the HOPE committee is now researching grant opportunities and networking with all potential parties to move ahead with a master plan. Their first step of an assessment grant application has been completed.

“Since the town had the foresight and wisdom to preserve the old town hall building all these years, we owe it to them, and to the future of Hammond, to see that this tremendous opportunity does not go to waste,” said Hugh Quarrier, HOPE committee member.

“We want to include everyone’s ideas,” said Pam Winchester, “Especially community members looking for a large space to gather. The building could be used for many purposes like a youth center, a wellness center, as well as a performing arts center.

“There is no professional theatre company within many miles of the New York side of the Thousand Islands,” Jim O’Connor said. “Imagine the impact of a professional repertory company in residence, or touring companies bringing a variety of shows to the region. A healthy arts program is a proven way to not only get noticed, but to also help to develop both the physical and economic growth of Hammond.”

Indeed, and with plans for movie nights, music and dance performances, Veteran’s community nights, educational workshops, yoga and local experts sharing what they do, the Old Town Hall and Opera House is well-positioned to become a true community resource for the town and the wider community.

Anyone interested in joining this effort can contact the HOPE committee by calling 315-324-5321 ext. 11 or writing to hammondnyhope@gmail.com or messaging on FB- Hammond H.O.P.E Committee.

The next meeting is Nov. 12 at 5 p.m., at the new town hall, 21 S. Main St.