"The church was built in 1903 and is in need of quite a bit of TLC," said Larry Hall, one of organizers of the project.
According to Mr. Hall, the church was built in 1903, which would be 112 years ago, by homesteaders in the
Paradise Valley area. Along with church
services, the building was also used as a
community center in Paradise Valley until the
Grange Hall was built.The church property and adjacent cemetery is owned by the Paradise Valley Cemetery Association. "The idea of renovation started with a group of people who thought it was a shame to see the building deteriorating. They wanted to preserve it as it's part of Paradise Valley's heritage."
At a recent meeting of the Cemetery Association, a discussion was held about preserving the church, and there was some discouragement that no one had stepped up to head up the restoration. "I spoke up," said Mr. Hall, "and was appointed as the leader. You should learn to keep your mouth shut!" he joked.
The initial goal at this time is to get a solid foundation for the building and a new floor for the inside. Once that is accomplished, the group will look at other needs. Further work will depend upon funds that might be available, but they would like to put on a new roof and siding. The building could also use new doors and paint.
So far, the project has had good financial support. One donor who wishes to remain anonymous donated $5,000 toward the renovation. A family has offered to donate windows. The Trail Blazers 4-H club, headed up by Shelly Smith, sold flower seeds and bulbs to raise money. Their goal was to raise $1,000, but through hard work the Trail Blazers were able to raise double that amount, bringing in $2,000 for the project.
It is hoped the work can begin within the next month or so.
The group will be meeting periodically to plan for and oversee the project, and to continue to work on raising necessary funding.
It is hoped the building can eventually be used again for a church, and for weddings and perhaps funerals.
The organizers are hoping others will help out with donations or with volunteer work. Anyone interested in volunteering to help out in any way, or those wishing to make a donation, please call Larry Hall at 208-627-2718 or 208-267-0801.
The photos below show the Paradise Valley Church as it appears today.
