The Importance of Saving St. Frances

St. Frances is more than just an old chapel in Lewiston-Woodville. It’s a living reminder of history, faith, and community—a place built in 1845 that still stands with its original pews, working bell tower, and towering trees that have quietly witnessed generations of life and love. Preserving it is not only about protecting a building; it’s about protecting the legacy of those who came before us and ensuring it continues to inspire those who come after.

A Legacy Rooted in History

Every brick, every creaking pew, and every stone in the graveyard tells a story. St. Frances represents endurance—how something created nearly two centuries ago still has the power to move hearts today. Saving it means safeguarding a rare piece of local history that too often disappears when old structures are left to fall apart.

A Place for Love, Life, and Community

Today, St. Frances has been reimagined as both a wedding venue and our family’s secondary home. It is where couples can begin their lives together surrounded by beauty, meaning, and history. It is also a home for community events—stargazing nights, photography sessions, and more. By saving St. Frances, we create a space where the past and present meet, where memories can be made, and where future grandchildren can return to see the stories that shaped their family and community.

Why We Donate to Hospice

Our mission to save St. Frances is deeply personal. A portion of every booking is donated to hospice care in memory of our father, whose passing left an indelible mark on our family. Hospice walked alongside us during some of our most difficult days, offering compassion, comfort, and dignity when it mattered most. Giving back to hospice is our way of honoring his life and ensuring other families receive the same kindness and support when facing their own goodbyes. Saving St. Frances allows us to keep his love alive—not just in the walls of the chapel, but in the care extended to others.

Why It Matters Now

Too many historic places vanish when communities stop fighting for them. St. Frances is at a turning point. Renovations are ongoing, but the work is far from finished. By supporting and saving St. Frances, we make sure this rare chapel doesn’t become just another story of “what used to be.” Instead, it becomes a vibrant story of what still is—and what can be for generations to come.