Albert Cummings of Stoneham works on the 2,200 pound, 40-foot steeple that was lowered from the North Waterford Congregational Church last week for repairs. The work involves replacing rotted sheathing and other repairs. Cummings said he hopes to raise the steeple, which now sits on the front lawn of the church, back on to the top of the church Friday. Parishioners are celebrating the 150th anniversary of the church next year.

Leslie H. Dixon/Sun Journal 

Once the North Waterford Congregational Church steeple is repaired, it will be a showcase for the church's 150th anniversary next year, said parishioners. Arthur Holt, a trustee of the church, said the damage to the 40-foot steeple was discovered when a painter went to scrape the steeple one day and the scraper went right through the wood.
The steeple sits over a belfry containing a Holbrook bell, which was cast in 1872. Parishioners say it has been tilting for some time. It is expected to be raised back on top of the church on Friday.