A dedicated group of volunteers, led by Vanessa Fells, is rallying efforts to rejuvenate the site of a once-thriving historic Black church in Yarmouth. The former Rose of Sharon Church, a significant landmark with roots tracing back to 1877, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Black community in the area.

However, before the vision of transforming the site into a bustling community hub can be realized, urgent repairs are needed, notably to address a hole in the roof. Fells, speaking on behalf of the newly formed volunteer board, emphasized the critical priority of fixing the roof to ensure the structural integrity of the building.

Over a year ago, Fells and fellow members of Yarmouth’s Black community were approached with a proposal to repurpose the church into a community hub offering vital services such as meals and resources. Despite the enthusiasm for the project, the extensive renovations required led the initial organization to reconsider its involvement. Undeterred, Fells and other community members, including her family, embarked on a journey to explore alternative avenues for preserving the historic site.

“The Rose of Sharon Church stands as the last vestige of the Black community in Yarmouth, making its preservation paramount to us,” remarked Fells, underscoring the deep familial ties to the site, with her grandmothers having served as trustees of the church.

With plans to seek municipal heritage status from the town and further recognition from provincial and federal authorities, the volunteer board aims to restore the church to its former glory. Beyond preservation, there are aspirations to transform the space into a museum honoring the rich history of the Black community in Yarmouth, while also offering much-needed community services.

Acknowledging the magnitude of the task ahead, Fells expressed the board’s commitment to seeing the project through, despite the considerable time and funding required. “We understand the importance of preserving this history,” she affirmed. “It’s a responsibility we take seriously and one that deserves greater attention.”

As the community rallies around this endeavor, the restoration of the Rose of Sharon Church emerges as not only a tribute to the past but also a beacon of hope for the future, symbolizing resilience and unity within the Yarmouth community.

  NoveScotia, Yarmouth