Odd Fellows' Hall (Buckland, Massachusetts) facts for kids
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Odd Fellows' Hall
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Buckland (Shelburne Falls), Massachusetts |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1877; rebuilt 1895 |
| Part of | Shelburne Falls Historic District (ID87002548) |
| NRHP reference No. | 79000345 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | May 10, 1979 |
| Designated CP | January 28, 1988 |
The Odd Fellows' Hall is a very old and important building in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. It's on the Buckland side of town. This hall was built in 1877 and then rebuilt in 1895 after a big fire. For many years, it was a main gathering spot for the Odd Fellows club. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This means it's recognized as a special historic place.
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What is the Odd Fellows' Hall?
The Odd Fellows' Hall is easy to spot in Shelburne Falls. It stands on State Street, near the bridge that connects Buckland to the Shelburne side of the village. It's a tall, three-story building made of wood. The outside is covered with clapboard siding.
A Closer Look at the Building
On the ground floor, there are two storefronts. These are now used by one business. The entrances are set back, with large display windows on either side. A long porch, supported by fancy brackets, covers these entrances.
The second floor has two groups of three windows. The third floor has two special window sets called Palladian windows. These windows have a large arch in the middle. The very top of the building has a decorative border and a low wall.
A Look Back: The Hall's History
The Odd Fellows were part of a group called the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. This was a friendly club that helped people in their community. The Shelburne Falls chapter of this group started in 1848. They first met in another building nearby.
Building After the Fire
In 1876, a big fire destroyed many buildings in Buckland. After this, the Odd Fellows bought land where a hotel used to be. They then built this hall in 1877.
However, another fire badly damaged the hall in 1895. But the Odd Fellows quickly rebuilt it. They continued to use the building until 1962. After that, it became a place for shops and other businesses.
The Odd Fellows' Hall is special because it's one of the few buildings left in the village that was built using "Victorian-era balloon framing." This was a common way to build houses a long time ago.
