We the undersigned oppose the demolition of historic St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (411 S. 5th Street, Hamilton, Montana) and support renovation to preserve the integrity of the existing structure.

St. Francis Catholic Church is a cornerstone of Hamilton, Montana's history.  It was built in 1896 with land donated by Marcus Daly.  The church is constructed of old-growth timber harvested from the Bitterroot National Forest.  It was designed by renowned Seattle architect A.F. Heide.  St. Francis of Assisi Church is on the National Historic Register.

A recent engineering report found the building to be structurally sound, yet it is threatened with demolition.  The church has been faithfully and consistently maintained and renovated for over 120 years.  

Church leadership would like to construct a new church on the same location to provide a larger space, despite a decrease in church attendance.  Many both within the parish and wider community oppose the demolition and fear the loss of a local historic landmark.

We believe this beautiful church should be preserved for future generations. 

Thank you for your help!