Lewiston Methodist Church Renovated into Community Building

The former Lewiston Methodist Church, established in 1888, has been renovated into the Lewiston Community Building. The 137 year old building had been renovated through the years but has most recently been completely restored to be utilized by the community for decades to come. The building had been unused for nearly 20 years and had serious exterior damage. The first step was to repair and replace the entire roof in November 2021. The interior had plaster falling off of the ceiling so it was cleaned up and debris removed. Several basement walls were reinforced and the building was checked for asbestos, per state regulations.
"Our goal was to preserve as much of the interior as possible," said Jackie Hippen of Lewiston, who with her husband, John, helped bring the project to fruition. Eight stained glass windows were in need of repair. The sashes were removed, the original glass salvaged and new sashes built. The original stained glass was installed in the new sashes and protected with storm glass. Three round stained glass windows were removed and taken to Lincoln to Palace Glass. Cracked and broken glass was replaced and new wood frames were built to replace the original frames.
There was a problem with honey bees in the east wall of the church. It took three beekeepers to remove the bees. Siding had to be removed to access them and it was soon discovered that the bees had taken over more area than originally thought. After getting rid of the bees, the siding was completely removed on the entire church, spray foam insulated and new siding installed.
The interior woodwork of the original church was stripped and refinished in place. The classroom area had woodwork replicated to match the original. The floors were sanded and refinished, all new electrical service, HVAC system and a handicap accessible bathroom were added in the main church.
The basement was completely renovated as well. The walls were repaired, foam insulated and drywalled. The bathrooms were updated and kitchen fully equipped to accommodate family gatherings, meetings and holiday events.
The Lewiston School is managing the Lewiston Community Building and is hosting a Ribbon Cutting event on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025. There will be tours of the building beginning at 6:30 followed by the Ribbon Cutting at 7:00. The Lewiston Community Building is available to rent by calling the Lewiston School at 402-865-4675.