There’s a revival coming to Rochester.

Marsha Hartley and Nancy Boutin, members of the Rochester Women’s Club, are taking a new approach to the 83-year-old group in hopes to raise money for a new roof.

Founded in 1928 by Hartley’s grandmother, the club’s mission is to promote “civic, educational, intellectual and social interests” among the town of Rochester. This has been done in numerous ways over the years, from memorial scholarships to renting out the club’s building on Marion Road for parties or group events. Rummage sales and card game tournaments were also big fundraisers.

The town currently rents space in the building, commonly referred as the Town Annex.

But Hartley, who has shared the presidency (following the footsteps of her aunt and mother as well), says the group has fallen into a lull. Membership dwindled and morale was low.

“Things reached a point in 2003, when we were even talking about selling the building,” Hartley says. “We had a huge, empty hall that wasn’t insulated downstairs. And the roof needed work. It felt like the only way out for us, to sell the place.”

“There was a big split among the women,” Boutin says. “Some wanted to sell it and others were totally against it.”

Eventually, Hartley felt compelled to keep the building.

“I don’t know if I was persuaded or just came to my senses, but my ‘nana’ started this! I couldn’t let it go.”

“Things kept going after that, but our membership dwindled,” Boutin says.

Now, the two of them (who are also owners of Old Maids Inc., a poison-free household cleaner supply company) are spearheading efforts to revive the club.

The first step is reformatting meetings. In the past, meetings focused solely on business. But, as Hartley explains, business items are few these days. The solution? Make each meeting more like a social event.

“We always have food and drinks available,” Hartley says. “And we just try to bring new ideas to the table. And anyone can come. It’s not just for Rochester residents.”

“If they want to stop in for a cup of coffee for ten minutes or visit, they can!” Boutin said. “They don’t have to stay for the whole meeting. And we’re trying to get more people from the area to come as speakers too.”

So far, their plan is working. Hartley says membership is growing.

Fundraising efforts have picked up as well, with an on-going raffle event (which includes a chainsaw for a prize) and upcoming Thanksgiving pie sale. The latter is a new venture, and Boutin said apple, pumpkin and squash pies will be available. Orders must be made before Thursday, Nov. 17, and can be picked up Tuesday, Nov. 22. The club will continue its Christmas tree and wreath sale as well.

Now, with the plans in order, Hartley and Boutin believe the Rochester Women’s Club will be restored to its former glory.

“There were a lot of women before us,” Hartley says. “They thought this was a good idea, and from the kindness of their hearts they made the club work. We are just grateful for our history. We have to be grateful for the women that came before us and give credit to them.”

The club meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

For more information on the club and its fundraisers, call Marsha Hartley at (508) 322-0998.