Historical Society Seeks Help in Raising Funds for Roof Repairs

By Sue Ellen Woodcock

The Revere Historical Society and Museum is raising the roof literally because their building at 108 Beach St. needs a new roof to the tune of $35,000.

Formerly, the rectory building for Immaculate Conception Church that is located across the street, the building is 100-years old with a unique slate roof and copper flashing. The historical society so far has raised $15,000 toward the project.

The Historical Society acquired the house in 1994.

“No children or families ever lived inside,” said Historical Society President Mary Jane Terenzi. “There was a comprehensive renovation after we bought it.”

But the roof has had wear and tear and still has damage from the tornado that tore through the city in July 2014. Insurance did not cover all of the tornado damage.

“The connection of the hips on the roof are all copper,” Terenzi said. “The areas lifted and water got in. In May of this year we spent $33,500 just for repairs. It’s all slate and copper.”

“The Revere Historical Society and Museum is run entirely from volunteers. We run with donations, a few grants. No money comes from the city,” said Terenzi.

On Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the Revere Historical Society and Museum will hold an open house/fundraising day.

Donations for the roof can be sent to the Revere Historical Society and Museum, 108 Beach St., Revere, MA 02151 or by connecting on the group’s Facebook page.

Now on Display

The Revere Historical Society and Museum has several exhibits each year. Currently, an exhibit on past Revere school history is being featured.

The exhibit begins with an large display of panoramic class portraits from Revere High School circa early 1900. Then its on to a variety of RHS yearbooks, although they are looking for donations of old yearbooks. There is also an empty composition book and an old gym uniform and cheerleading outfit from the 1950s.

Over time there have been 30 schools in Revere. One popular crossing guard is displayed as a life-size cut out. Peg McCarthy, is forever in her uniform crossing kids near Immaculate Conception. There is also a letterman’s jacket from Revere High School, letters, an old patriot triangle hat and a leather football helmet.

The display will be up until the end of October. The museum is open on Saturdays from 1-4 p.m.