Some memories never fade.

One memory of a gazebo on the Bluffton Presbyterian Church lawn lingered long enough that it returned, thanks to efforts of members of the congregation.

In the late 1890s  a gazebo, or “band box” located on the church lawn became the center of several community events from concerts to picnics.

No one is certain the when gazebo was removed. One thing is certain: it’s back. Last week, after considerable research by church members, a gazebo was constructed very near, if not on the exact spot of the original one.

The 20-by-20-foot gazebo was funded by a bequest Bob and Mary Barnett, who were long-time BPC members.

According to Rev. Karol Farris Shilling, pastor, "All are welcome to sit in the gazebo. There are chairs that remain in the space for having lunch, catching up with friends, having an impromptu meeting, watching your kids run around, seeing what Bluffton is up to, you name it.”

Persons interested in reserving the space for an event may contact the church office at 419-358-5806 or [email protected]. 

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned at noon, Saturday, June 26, with a concert by the Dave Sycks Bluffton Brass Quintet.  

This is the second major project conducted by the congregation this spring. In March the church installed an electronic yard sign.

"Both church and community messages will be displayed on the sign," she said.

A policy is in place for community requests. Non-profit and public organizations may fill out an application to be considered for a display in the message rotation at no cost. The form is  available at www.blufftonpc.org.

The sign is funded by gifts from current member George Stultz and also from a bequest of Bob and Mary Barnett.

“Many thanks to Dick and Jayne McGarrity, George Stultz, and all in the congregation who helped nurture these projects from ideas to possibilities to realities,” she said.