MACHIASPORT – Liberty Hall in Machiasport recently received grants totaling $80,000 to help with its restoration.

The money will be used to improve the structural integrity of the building and to start a fundraising campaign for further support.

The Davis Family Foundation and Maine Community Foundation awarded the grants. Residents of the town of Machiasport also helped raise a portion of the money.

Liberty Hall was built in 1873 at a cost of $1,000.

According to Earle G. Shettleworth Jr., director of the Maine Historic Preservation Commission, the hall is one of the better examples of Victorian town halls in the state.

The building is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places and on the commission’s list of Most Endangered Historic Properties.

The restored Liberty Hall will be used to house community and cultural events, including town meetings, performances, and other programs.

Contributions to the restoration fund can be mailed to: Friends of Liberty Hall, P.O. Box 22, Machiasport 04655.