The People’s Hall in East Fallowfield, the building constructed in 1845 to ensure that abolitionists had a place to meet without disturbances, is currently in need of repairs, writes Valerie Russ for The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

Prior to the People’s Hall, abolitionists, including Frederick Douglass, used to meet at the Fallowfield Meeting House. After a brawl closed down their previous meeting place, Quakers and other abolitionists gathered enough money to build another structure where all people were free to talk about any subject. 

Also known as the Freedom Hall, the new building served as a meeting place continuously since 1845. Over the years, it welcomed abolitionists, farmers, the Boy Scouts, and many others. 

However, today, the building is in dire need of repairs. Its floors need refinishing and there are cracks in the walls around the stage that need mending. Repairs to the ceilings are already underway. 

Due to difficulties in applying for grants, as the building is owned by the people of Fallowfield Township and managed by a board of trustees, a fundraiser was organized on Friday to help gather money for the repairs. 

Read more about the People’s Hall in The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

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