In 2005, the Richmond Historical Society launched a multi-year Round Church renovation and enhancement project, the most significant work to the church since the major repairs undertaken in the 1970’s and early 1980’s to restore the building after it was found unsafe for use.

In the first phase of the current project, completed in January 2006, the belfry was repainted and the church received a new red cedar shingle roof.  A $15,000 matching grant from the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation helped to finance this phase of the project.

Work for phase two of the project began during the summer of 2006 and included replastering and repainting the interior of the church and adding handrails to the balcony stairwells. In 2007, the church’s exterior was repainted and work was begun on painting and reglazing the building's many windows. Most of the remaining pipes for a fire safety sprinkler system were  installed and initial excavation work for an underground sprinker system control room was  completed.

Planned for 2008 are the completion of the control room and installation of a pump and other sprinkler system mechanics so that the system can be connected to a water supply.

Other project goals include adding improved lighting around the front entrance and landscaping the parking field and adjacent grounds. Total cost for the project is estimated at $235,000.

The Round Church is owned and managed by the Richmond Historical Society, a community-based non-profit organization, and staffed entirely by volunteers.  Significant public support is needed to enable the RHS to keep the Round Church safe, attractive, and open to visitors for years to come.  To contribute to the Round Church Renovation Project, please send a check to the Richmond Historical Society, P. O. Box 453, Richmond, VT 05477.