patron's hall
The Town of Dartmouth originally built what would become Patron’s Hall, also known as Paskamansett Hall, as a 2-room schoolhouse in 1837,on a parcel of cemetery land sold to the town by the Second Christian Society. The building, a classic Greek Reveal, served as a school until 1873 when it was purchased by James H. and Nancy A. Slocum.
Mr. Slocum rented the hall out as a meeting place and warehouse until the fledgling Dartmouth Grange purchased it in August 2, 1892 for the sum of $200.
Dartmouth Grange began making upgrades to better serve its members and the community with the addition of a stage and kitchen in 1929. Essentially unchanged from 1929, the hall was the site of much of the social activity in Russells Mills Village.
Recognized by The Waterfront Historic Area League (WHALE) in 2004 with the Sara Delano Award for its efforts in restoring and persevering Patrons Hall, the Dartmouth Grange remains the stewards of this important cultural resource.
GREAT FOR
- bridal showers and small wedding receptions
- classes, workshops, conferences, lectures, etc
- birthday parties
- fundraising events and activities
- dinner theater, recitals, plays, etc.
- dances
- gatherings and reunions for friends and family
FEATURES
- Function hall – occupancy 85
- Additional space upstairs for meetings, classes, etc – occupancy 50
- Kitchen – approved and certified by the public board of health
- Stage – with two small backstage areas
- Coatroom
- Air conditioning
- Accessible entrance
- Accessible restrooms
- Elevator/lift
Bounded by 285 acres of preserved open space and a cemetery that reflects the early settlement of Russells Mills Village. Patron’s Hall represents a significant part the Commonwealth’s heritage and was included in the designation of Russells Mills Village Historic District by the National Register, September 1985. It was also included in the designation of the Local Historic District, subject to chapter 40 (c) of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ general laws, June 9, 1998.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Alderbrook Farm - Charming farm stand with animals, vegetable and flower garden, open daily 5am-5pm
Allen’s Mill - Restored, one of the earliest and longest running mills in Dartmouth
Davoll’s General Store - Quaint old-time general store doing business since 1793, open Mon-Fri 9-5:30, Sat 9-6, Sun 10-5:30
Destruction Brook Wood Reserve - 284 acres with hiking trails, point of access - Dartmouth Grange
Russell Mill Pond Dam - A scenic, cultural, and historic feature of the area
Parson’s Reserve - 32 acres, access point to hiking trails is located on Horseneck Road across from the town landing
Saltmarsh Pottery - Hand-made, hand-painted pottery and tiles with wildflower imprints, open Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-5
Town Landing - Town recreational and green area at the Slocums River entrance overlooking a beautiful tidal estuary with parking, playground equipment, tennis court and picnic tables.
Village Gardens - Uncommon plants and old favorites for gardens and containers, open April-July, Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 10-3
RESERVATIONS
Scheduled time is available on a first reserved, first served basis and is based on advanced reservations. Reservations may be made by contacting Nancy Manley, scheduling coordinator of Patron’s Hall, at (774) 264-0755, email cy1014@aol.com and by filling out the Reservation Form.
Hall Rental Agreement Information (PDF)
Hall Rental Reservation Form (PDF)
COST
Dartmouth Grange provides a suggested voluntary donation for the use of the hall; details may be found on the Reservation Form.
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