About The Friends & the Friendship Fund

The Friends of the Old Ship Meeting House is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt charitable trust (The Friendship Fund) that raises funds from private and public sources on a non-sectarian basis to preserve one of the principal treasures of Hingham and the nation. Over the years, the Friendship Fund has contributed to a wide variety of Meeting House repairs and preservation projects.

A community-wide appeal in 2007 and 2008 enabled the Friendship Fund to contribute $85,000 in matching funds required by a $60,000 grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission Preservation Fund to re-shingle the Meeting House roof, and repair the belfry and steeple, immediate needs identified in the recently completed historic survey of the Meeting House. The historic 18th century weathervane was removed and restored, as well, with Friendship Funds.

The Friends funds have also supported architectural conservation consulting services for preparing bids and supervising preservation projects, and for a system to monitor the 1681 oak structural frame. Additional fundraising will be required for projects that need to be undertaken in 2010 and 2011.


The Massachusetts Historical Commission’s red sign prominently displays
its grant support for the re-shingled roof.

Restored 1731 weathervane on display
Dedicated to the memory of L. Ware Williams, May 2009 .

The Friends look forward to the community’s continuing support in preserving the Meeting House for future generations to enjoy. Donations may be made on-line, by check or by contributions of appreciated stock or securities.

Trustees are Jane Malme, Chairman; Roberta Smith, Treasurer; Connie Gorfinkle, Clerk; John LaPann; and Debra Squires-Lee.