Criterion A: Politics/Government and Entertainment/Recreation
Period of Significance: 1828-1974
Local Level of Significance
Rumford Center Meeting House in Rumford, Oxford County, Maine is a large one-story, gable front, timber framed building which is significant under Criterion A for its association with local governmental functions and as an important entertainment and social hall for the community. The 1828 building served as both a religious and political center. Active church use ended ca. 1865 while town meetings and other governmental activities took place here from 1828 through 1897. After that time the building continued to function as the primary community center for this village within the larger town of Rumford. The local Village Improvement Society coordinated many of the activities and assisted with maintenance of the building in the twentieth century. The period of significance extends from the construction date to 1974 at which time the building was still an active center for community entertainment and gatherings. Because the building was used for religious purposes early in its existence, Criteria Consideration A applies and is met because the building is being nominated for its political and entertainment use and significance, not for any religious association.