The Madill Church isn’t going anywhere. The 144-year-old building was in danger of being torn down, as it’s current owner the United Church of Canada no longer wanted it. The town had been looking at taking over the ownership of the log building, and during public consultations The Madill Church Preservation Society was formed.
The society told Huntsville it was interested in taking over the deed, and at tonight’s council meeting the town agreed. The town is paying a $2,000 fee to cover the incorporation costs and transfer the property. Many of the councilors noted the town is lucky to have a group that is willing to take on the building. Councilor Jonathan Wiebe said this was the result the town was hoping for, and they got it.
It was also noted the United Church of Canada had offered Huntsville $10,000 if it took over the ownership, which will now to go the Madill Church Preservation Society.
The log church was built in 1873, and founder of Huntsville, Captain George Hunt, is buried in the graveyard beside it. It’s no longer in regular use, but the United Church was holding annual services.
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Public meeting on the Madill Church next month in Huntsville