ALBANY TOWNSHIP – Dozens of township residents got together last week to celebrate the inclusion of the Albany Town House on the National Register of Historic Places and the major restoration work recently completed.

Built in the mid-19th century, New England-styled building has served as a town office and voting place for most of its more than 150 years.

The original tin ceilings have been restored, the old wallpaper removed, a handicapped ramp constructed, and many other improvement made, said Lorraine Tanguay, a member of the Albany Improvement Association. Money is being raised to install a composting toilet, and hopes are that it will be installed before the Nov. 3 election.

Last year’s election was held in the nearby former grange hall.

The association has worked for several years to bring the old building back to its former glory. At least $10,000 had been raised.

At Sunday’s dedication, visitors pored over memorabilia, and longtime resident Edna York, who will be 100 years old in December, was honored.

Bethel Historical Society member Steve Seames provided a brief history of the township. He also presented an American flag given by U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, to Gene Tanguay, president of the Albany Improvement Association.

Terrence Martin, a Hudson, N.H., resident who owns property in Albany, donated a brass plaque that designates the town house as being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Lorraine Tanguay said the eventual goal of the improvement association is to organize a historical society.

Each year, the association holds a giant yard sale that brings in much of the funds used for the restoration. Members have also held “no bake” bake sales, and asked for donations from property owners and others.

eadams@sunjournal.com