"Everything is done with volunteers and grants," said Marcy McCann, president of the Friends of Centennial Hall, the nonprofit group working to make the building functional while retaining its original charm and integrity.

The Friends recently received an installment payment from the New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program, which will allow them to complete remaining roof repairs and exterior painting in the spring.

A preservation consultant has determined the exact match of the original exterior paint - grayish beige with an off-white trim and a high gloss black or blackish-green for the window sashes. Most alumni of the school remember yellow, the color used in the late-1890s repainting. The Friends will ask town residents to choose between the two colors in a spring vote.

"It will be a big impact item for us," said McCann. "The building in some people’s minds is attached to the church."

Critical interior and exterior repairs have occurred since the nonprofit group bought the building with the aim of preserving a piece of town history and providing a locale for creative and performing arts.

A large portion of the slate and copper roof has been restored to make the building watertight; the original cupola has been re-created and set atop the tower; dormer windows have been replaced; new front doors have been installed; the septic system has been replaced; and much of the interior space improved.

"We have made a painstaking effort to do it correctly. There are too few of these gems around," said McCann.

The estimate to complete the renovation is $1.1 million.

"It’s a multistepped process," said McCann. "To complete renovation is one way to look at it, to gain occupancy is another."

The Friends are looking for help in service or donations.

"Professionals contributing services are as important as financial backing," said McCann.

A wish list for Centennial Hall includes: fire protection sprinkler system; front entrance steps and wing walls; mortgage payment(s); oil, water, electricity gifts; paint; cleaning services; interior stairwell reconstruction to access basement studio; elevator purchase and installation; front entry path design and construction; and canopy lighting.

The Friends are also seeking to expand their volunteer board of directors, and find funds to hire an executive director. Meetings are held the first Monday of every month at Centennial Hall.

Jen King, who serves as secretary of the board, joined the Friends six years ago.

"I was new in town and I loved the building," said King. "I wanted to see it become something good for the town."

She said she likes the idea of meeting in one room and hearing the distant sounds of a violin in another. King admits it can be hard work, but she said it is worth it.

"I know everybody is busy, but it’s good to get involved, to get to know the people in your community."

For information, visit www.centennialhall.org.