Family of Church Fredonia after phase-one demolition. Photo by Jo Ward

FREDONIA — It’s been nearly a month since a fire in downtown Fredonia destroyed much of Family Church, but the cleanup is progressing on schedule.

Scott Wise, associate pastor, stated that the first phase is completed. The church is now working with an architect and engineer to design a plan of action to take down the clock and tower, without damaging the building. Once that is finished they can begin rebuilding.

The church so far has raised $5,925 through gofundme.com and private donations, and hopes to continue to see more to help with the costs of demolition and restructuring.

“(The) exterior is good and there has been no damage to the stained glass, however the church will need a new roof as well as two-thirds of the interior roof structure, such as the cross beams and supports replaced,” Wise said. “The original 1853 portion has been completely gutted.”

The clock that sits in the burned out steeple is going through its own insurance claim as it was originally intended for Village Hall and belongs to them. Wise mentioned that the church will be erecting another steeple and are giving heavy thought to a new clock which will belong to the church instead.

The insurance company has begun bidding between two national contractors for the rebuilding team and Wise, as well as his fellow parishioners, seem hopeful as he delivered a final remark: “We appreciate the support we’ve gotten from the community.”