Russell Tarason bought the former St. Michael's rectory building from the Town of South Berwick for one dollar. Mr. Tarason paid for the move of the building to his land. Russell Tarason and Town Manager Perry Ellsworth celebrate the transfer.
Isn’t it great when what seems like an insurmountable problem works out? That’s what has happened in South Berwick with the former St. Michael’s Rectory. The old rectory was in the way of the renovation of the former St. Michael’s Church to transform it into South Berwick’s new Library. For a while it looked like the rectory would have to be dismantled, much to the distress of many who did not want to see a fine old house lost. Fortunately, the Town of South Berwick, under the direction of Town Manager Perry Ellsworth, persevered in trying to find a taker for the building. As a result, South Berwick resident and real estate owner Russell Tarason stepped forward and on July 13 the old rectory moved from its spot next to the future Library to Mr. Tarason’s property. The transfer means that the old building will continue its life and the Town does not have to bear the cost of dismantling and disposing of the building.
Here the rectory has been raised off its foundation and readied to be transferred to the truck.
The rectory is on the move through the parking lot on its way to Mr. Tarason's property, which is adjacent to the former church property.
According to those who watched the move, it was an amazing site to see this large building rolling along.
The old rectory on the new site awaiting its foundation.
