RAYMOND — After a successful completion of Phase 1 of its fundraising campaign — which allowed urgent repairs to the foundation, floors, and interior of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Boyhood Home in Raymond — the Hawthorne Community Association has launched Phase 2 of its fundraising campaign, to fully repair, upgrade, and sustain the beloved boyhood home of the author of The Scarlet Letter.

The goal of the campaign is to raise $75,000. This money will allow the Hawthorne Community Association to repair structural deficiencies in the roof; re-shingle it; re-paint or re-side walls; repair or replace the front steps; repair cracks to the interior walls; and complete landscaping and add fencing where necessary. 

“The Hawthorne House is a landmark and source of great pride to everyone who appreciates the culture and literary heritage of New England,” said Abel Bates of the Hawthorne Community Association, which has cared for the historic house since 1921. “By raising this $75,000, we will ensure that one of Maine’s most historic homes will endure and thrive as a community events center.”

Event rentals at the Hawthorne House will help fund Phase 2 of the fundraising campaign. Rates are $25 per hour for nonprofits and Hawthorne Community Association members, and $50 per hour for nonmembers (minimum of two hours).    

To donate to Phase 2 of the effort to fully repair Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Boyhood Home, please consider a much-appreciated check payable to “Hawthorne Community Association” / PO Box 185 / South Casco, ME 04077.

PayPal donations may be made online at: https://www.hawthorneassoc.com.   

For more information, please contact Abel Bates at 207-318-7131 or jbates4@maine.rr.com.