FARMINGTON — Franklin Savings Bank’s Community Development Foundation has donated $25,000 to the Farmington Historical Society to launch its Octagon House capital campaign.

The society is buying the 155-year-old brick house with plans to restore and revive its character.

The Octagon House is one of only 19 houses of its kind still standing in Maine. In its time, the shape and central stairway was intended to improve heating and cooling efficiency while the lack of square corners encouraged socialization and family time. It also features an eight-sided glass cupola that floods the central staircase with natural light.

The two-story house at High and Perham streets was the home of the late Deborah Mallett Cressall. Her Mallett family heirs offered the property to the society at a reduced price, in hopes it would be open to the public.

“We are pleased to play a pivotal role in getting this project off the ground,” said Timothy J. Thompson, senior vice president and CFO of Franklin Savings Bank. “We hope other local businesses join us in supporting this worthy cause.”

Franklin Savings Bank’s donation has earned it “naming rights” for a room in the house.

“We plan for the Octagon to be a community asset that can be used for events and celebrations, as well as educational programs and presentations,” said Byron “Buzz” Davis, Historical Society treasurer.

The Octagon House was built in 1858 by local mason Cyrus Ramsdell, who sold the house to his brother, Hiram. Hiram’s widow later sold the house to Wilbert G. Mallett, who was principal of the Farmington Normal School, now the University of Maine at Farmington, and president of Franklin Savings Bank from 1931 to 1942.

The society’s capital campaign goal is $250,000, which enables purchase of the house and some restoration and repairs, as well as completion of renovations to North Church.

“These two buildings, along with the Titcomb House, will enable the Historical Society to serve visitors, provide educational and cultural programs and events, host community functions and celebrate the rich history of Farmington,” Historical Society President Taffy Davis said.

Anyone interested in supporting this project can send donations to Farmington Historical Society, P.O. Box 575, Farmington, ME 04938.

For more information on this project or the society, contact Davis at 778-4275.