Universal Preservation Hall (UPH), Saratoga Springs’ premier performing arts and community events venue, announced today that work has been completed on the interior ceilings of the building’s Community Room, hallway, front foyer and entryway. The project, funded by a Saratoga Springs Community Development Block Grant, was completed in early May.
“We are thrilled with the completion of this interior work that continues our positive momentum from 2012 right into 2013,” noted UPH President Teddy Foster. “The work was perfectly timed and we’re looking great for our June weddings, SaratogaArtsFest and other summer events.”
In October 2012, UPH Officials announced they were in ongoing discussions with Proctors Theater of Schenectady about a potential future partnership that would widen the range of cultural and non-cultural activities in the region. Feasibility studies have been completed, and results will be released later this year.
A P Drywall from Amsterdam, NY was selected to complete the ceiling work and painting. Prior to that work, the electrical system for the building was fully updated as a donation from Board member Wally Allerdice of Allerdice Building Supply.
Additionally the wood floors in the Community Room have been restored and refinished, creating a beautiful space that is perfect for any type of event, concert or performance. The flooring restoration was completed by LJ and Sons Hardwood Floor from Schenectady [518-488-2695].
Foster noted, “We are very grateful to the Allerdice family for their generosity. Since the UPH restoration began in 1999, we have been blessed by individuals, local businesses, and organizations, who have donated their time and financial resources to do what was thought impossible by many – save this historic structure from destruction.”
The building, built in 1871 as a Methodist Church, has hosted such luminaries as William Jennings Bryan and President William Howard Taft. It also currently serves as the home of the Universal Baptist Church, which purchased the building in 1976. Universal Preservation Hall is located at 25 Washington Street in historic downtown Saratoga Springs. For further information, please contact UPH Manager Mary Beth McGarrahan at info@universalpreservationhall.org or (518) 584-2627.
