Courthouse Square Gazebo Renovations Underway

Potter County Today

A project to refurbish the gazebo at the courthouse square is moving forward through a partnership between the Potter County Commissioners and the structure’s custodian, New Century Club of Coudersport. NCC has been working to raise the funding needed for new roofing, ceiling work, electrical service and other repairs. Recently, a NCC official and Commissioners Doug Morley, Susan Kefover and Paul Heimel mapped out a plan whereby the county’s buildings/grounds maintenance team could assist with the project. At the same time, a local industry has agreed to provide financial assistance for improved electrical service at the courthouse square, including the gazebo, to support local festivals and other events. Work began last week under the direction of the county’s maintenance manager, David Knowles (left), shown here with temporary worker Chris Ianson.

The gazebo was built in 1981 in an attempt to duplicate a popular bandstand that stood at the same site from 1884 to the early 1920s. It was one of the most ambitious projects in the long history of the New Century Club, which traces its roots and its name to a desire by a local women to dedicate their time and efforts toward improving the community as it entered what was, at that time, the far-off “new century.” Now that the century is well underway, many of the same volunteers remain dedicated to supporting worthwhile community causes.

Donations to help cover the costs of the gazebo work are welcome and should be made payable to New Century Club, 5 ½ East Seventh Street, Coudersport PA 16915. The club hopes to be able to afford to make ceiling adaptations that will greatly improve the acoustics for musical performances and other public programs at the gazebo.

(Photo courtesy of Endeavor News)