MILLWOOD --It may be hard to believe that an evening of pleasant music above a tranquil Shenandoah River will "Raise the Roof," but thats just what Ian Williams is hoping for.

     On Sunday, from 5 to 7 p.m., Marjorie and John Lewis will open their home the Cliff to aid the restoration effort at Old Bethel Church.

     The historic church, one of the oldest west of the Blue Ridge Mountain, was first a Quaker congregation and then a Baptist church.

     It stands on a cliff above the Shenandoah River in the southeast corner of Clarke County.

     Now, it is a trust for the people of the county, according to Williams, president of its board of trustees.

     Twice a year, Old Bethel opens its doors to the public: once in August for a homecoming service and cultural talk, followed by a picnic under the shade trees on the grounds; and again in December, for an old-time candlelit Christmas service.

     But keeping the building intact has been a continuing effort for the trustees.

     Although the interior and the floor have had intensive renovation, its time to tackle the roof, Williams said.

     "Its a tin roof, and its lived its fullest life," he said.

     Everyone is invited to attend the "end-of-summer casual party" at the Lewises' home, Williams said, and the $50-per-person donation will help get the church roof "raised" before bad weather sets in.

     "Well have the music of Al Webber's Arcadians," Williams said.

     But of even more interest, he said, is the venue.

     The Cliff was originally built in 1940 for Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Byrd. The Colonial Revival-style home was designed by Washington architect George Howe.

     In May, the Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission honored the Lewises for their sensitive updating of the property, including the landscaping of the grounds.

     The estate has been placed in a protective open space easement.

     "I have always thought it was one of the most attractive houses in Clarke County," Williams said, adding that its location, perched high above the Shenandoah River with a view of a winding stream, makes it "a unique location. It is one of the most remarkable views."

     The evening fundraiser is open to "anyone in the world who has an interest in Bethel," Williams said.

     And anyone who would like to donate more than $50 to the roof project is welcome to, he added. "We will thank you profusely for it."

Reservations

     To make a reservation for the "Raise the Roof" event ($50 per ticket), call Carly Bauserman at 540-667-1266, ext. 20.

-- Contact Val Van Meter at
vvanmeter@winchesterstar.com