Photo: Bill Price.

A multi-family yard sale last month bullishly dubbed, "Not Your Ordinary Yard Sale!" was a success, according to organizers. The purpose of the event was to raise funds to replace the building's deteriorated roof which is at least forty years old and in critical condition.

A committee worked all summer on many aspects of the sale especially solicitation of items. Originally planned to run Friday and Saturday, September 19-20, the sale was extended an additional day due to the unexpectedly large inventory, strong public response, and great weather.

Over the years, many tag sales to benefit the New Boston Congregational Church were sponsored by the Ladies Aid Society and the Sandisfield Grange 425 at the former parish hall. Last month's event, a resumption of the tradition, was the largest of its kind in living memory if not in the building's 146-year history. An estimated 150 visitors went away with hundreds of interesting and practical items including some of the contents of the old parish hall that had been mothballed since 2000.

A superabundance of items of all kinds, shapes, sizes, and ages, ranging from saltshakers to large furniture were arranged in six rows on both sides of the church and in the front and rear areas. Eager early birds on the first day had barely enough space to walk about. Curiosities dangled from tree branches, the plant holders and the front stairs. One happy buyer who had for years been looking for a very particular small sink, exclaimed, "I found it!" as he lifted his trophy for all to see.

Planners had penciled in a goal of $5,000 which was optimistic because it counted on robust donations (value items and cash) and outdoor conditions, the latter notoriously unpredictable and out of their control. Together with demanding work by the entire membership, generosity of the public, and pleasant weather, the goal was surpassed. Importantly, the proceeds may qualify for matching grants.

Eric Kreibel, NBCC Pastor since 2017, told The Times, "This event surpassed every expectation. The efforts of our dedicated members were impressive. The public response was wonderful too. Everyone had fun, and it seemed to me that almost every visitor went away with something. We appreciate the generosity of the many who responded to our request for items for sale and the kind people who left money in the jar. I am particularly grateful that many had a chance to see for the first time the inside of our lovely and historic 'Little Brown Church.' We hope they will revisit for a Sunday service."

About fifty were on hand at one point on Saturday afternoon for a special treat - an unscheduled and thrilling performance by fire performer Ali O'Donnell of Boston, as "Dame of Flames." Mothers cringed. All were amazed. Ali's day job is a pharmacist.

Based on this experience the Church Council is considering an annual yard sale on the third weekend of September. Circle the dates on your 2026 calendars now.

Donations for a new roof are greatly appreciated. To donate online go to newbostoncongregationalchurch.org and click "Donations." To donate by mail please send checks made to New Boston Congregational Church, P.O. Box 81, Sandisfield, MA 01255