Historic Downstreet (HD) formed early in 2011. Our purpose was to save 30 Main Street. An historic Vinalhaven artifact, it was in danger of being foreclosed upon and our concern was that it would fall into the wrong hands at an auction and be left to deteriorate or worse. As our efforts took flight, it became apparent that we should become a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization and we did, in August of that year.

Not long after we began work, the property was saved from foreclosure at the last moment and we decided to turn our attention to another legitimate target as defined by our mission statement, the Old Engine House, which had fallen into disrepair. We were successful in raising enough money to complete a wonderful restoration and presented it to the Town at a memorable Fourth of July ceremony, dedicating the restoration to Bodine Ames, who had devoted so much of her time, for so many years to keeping it and many other town properties and artifacts in presentable shape.

 Since then and until last year, we have not been active, simply filing our annual reports to the IRS and the Secretary of State to remain in compliance.

Not long ago, it became apparent that the now new owners of 30 Main, who’d been busily and capably restoring the building for years, were ready to sell the property so, again concerned that it would fall into the wrong hands and inspired by the work being done to restore the Star of Hope, we re-grouped. Since then, content to find it was being leased to a promising new enterprise, and with the addition of a few more visionary members, we have broadened our interest to include recognition of the historical significance of our entire downtown area.

Phil Crossman, March 2024