First Presbyterian Church has begun a restoration project to replace damaged soffits, fascia boards, and corbels on the exterior of the original part of the building.

Built in 1906, the structure has been lovingly cared for, with a variety of improvements throughout the life of the building, church officials said. However, time, weather, and seasons can take a tough toll on a building, and time has come to address damaged areas, they said.

The project is made possible by a grant from the Idaho Heritage Trust, an endowment for the preservation of historic buildings. The Idaho Heritage Trust provided a matching grant of $5,000. Church members and friends helped raise the additional $5,000. The mission of Idaho Heritage Trust is to preserve the historic building and artifacts of Idaho for the state's bicentennial in 2090, through a program of grants and technical assistance.

Todd Vorhies and the Vorhies Built team are conducting the repairs. Todd and his team previously completed the new entryway project in 2019, with the help of Boden Architecture, who designed the structure.

First Presbyterian Church also has an ongoing project to develop the church yard into the Community Peace Garden. Featuring picnic tables, a peace pole, and Noah's Ark Little Free Library, in addition to a gazebo funded and built by the Rotary Club of Sandpoint, the community may enjoy the space as an outdoor sanctuary and a gathering spot for conversations and respite. The design also calls for the addition of a large labyrinth, and the church is seeking funds to help with this.

If you would like to contribute to the completion of the Community Peace Garden, donations may be sent to 417 North 4th Avenue, Sandpoint, ID 83864.

Information: fpcsandpoint.org