On January 5, 1921, a small group of women officially committed themselves to the concept that "a house big enough for dances, mass meetings, concerts and plays" was needed in the community, and they pledged to raise funds to establish such a center. In April 1923, they rented a small house on the corner of Bates and Maple, officially establishing the first Community House. When the community recognized the need for a larger establishment, a campaign was initiated and on April 28, 1930, The Community House on Bates Street opened to the public. The original structure covered the area from Townsend Street on the south to the middle of the block, where the center chimney is now, on the north. The rest of the building (from the center chimney to Merrill Street) was added in October 1990. Over its 75 years and counting, in spite of overwhelming changes in our society, The Community House has stayed true to its mission of building a strong community. People of all ages and interests continue to be served by the many and varied programs and services offered by The Community House.