Standing proudly in the heart of Saugus, Massachusetts, the Saugus Town Hall is more than just a municipal building; it is a beacon of the town's rich history and a testament to its enduring spirit. Constructed in 1875, this historic structure has witnessed countless events and has been a central hub for the community for nearly a century and a half. Its architectural elegance and storied past make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the heritage of this charming New England town.
The story of Saugus Town Hall begins in 1874 when construction commenced on what would become the town's second and current town hall. The cornerstone was laid with great ceremony on October 17, 1874, marking the beginning of a project that would soon become a central part of Saugus life. The land for the town hall was purchased from Samuel A. Parker, and despite being a low, wet piece of land that required significant filling, the community's determination saw the project through. The construction incurred a substantial debt of $50,000 for the town, a significant sum at the time, reflecting the importance placed on this civic building.
The dedication ceremony on March 1, 1877, was a grand affair attended by residents from Saugus and neighboring communities. The event featured speeches from notable figures such as Wendell Phillips and former Lynn mayors, and it concluded with a benediction, marking the official opening of the town hall.
From its inception, the Saugus Town Hall has been a bustling center of activity. The first floor originally housed the offices of the selectmen, town clerk, and town treasurer, along with a high school classroom and the public library. Over time, the high school and library moved to their own buildings, and the town hall adapted to the changing needs of the community. The second floor, which initially served as a community room hosting town meetings, political rallies, and various social events, was later converted into office space for several town departments. However, a renovation in 1997 restored the second floor to its original purpose as an assembly room, once again making it a venue for community gatherings.
The basement of the town hall also played a crucial role in the town's history, housing the police department and jail until a separate police station was built in 1936. This multi-functional use of the building underscores its importance as a central pillar of the Saugus community.
Scavenger hunts in Saugus
Discover Saugus with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Saugus with your team!
Throughout its history, Saugus Town Hall has been the site of numerous notable events. In 1892, the Annual Town Meeting was marked by the sudden death of town collector William F. Hitchings, who passed away while distributing a circular. In 1922, the body of Private Winslow Hodgson lay in state at the town hall, a poignant moment that highlighted the building's role in the community's collective mourning and remembrance.
Tragedy struck the town hall on October 31, 1927, when a fire in the basement caused significant damage. Thanks to the quick actions of police officers and firemen, invaluable documents and artifacts were saved from destruction. This event is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Saugus community.
Over the years, the town hall has also welcomed distinguished visitors, including the Marchioness Townshend, mayor of King's Lynn, who visited in 1929 as part of Lynn, Massachusetts' tercentenary celebrations. The building has also served as a place of honor for fallen soldiers, with the bodies of John Burke and Staff Sergeant Arthur F. DeFranzo lying in state there in 1932 and 1947, respectively.
By the 1990s, the Saugus Town Hall had fallen into disrepair, leading to discussions about its potential demolition. However, the Saugus Historical Commission and community members rallied to save and restore the building. The town's Capital Improvement Plan provided funding for the renovation, and in 1998, the Friends of Town Hall was formed to raise additional funds for specific projects. These efforts culminated in a comprehensive renovation that cost $3.5 million and included the installation of display cases for historic items and the dedication of The Founding of Saugus Mural in the auditorium.
The reopening ceremony on November 17, 1998, was a celebration of the town hall's rebirth, featuring speeches from local dignitaries and state officials. The event marked the successful preservation of a vital piece of Saugus' heritage, ensuring that the town hall would continue to serve as a community center for future generations.
Today, Saugus Town Hall stands as a symbol of the town's history, resilience, and community spirit. Its elegant architecture, storied past, and ongoing role in civic life make it a fascinating destination for visitors. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Saugus Town Hall offers a unique glimpse into the heart of this vibrant New England town.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.