A last-ditch effort to save an historic building in Clare.

Eglise Sainte-Marie in Church Point was the largest wooden church in North America, and is nearly 120 years old.

The last service was held in December, 2019 and the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth were looking to sell it, with no luck.

A new association called ‘Sainte-Marie heritage et developpement’ has been formed with a goal of saving the structure from the wrecking ball.

Co-president Stephanie St-Pierre says they’re trying to fund an engineer study.

“That would allow us to know exactly what needs to be done, and in what sequence for the structure to be saved. We would also find out approximate costs for different opportunities,” said St-Pierre.

So far they have $5,000 from a GoFundMe, and continue to look for other fundraising avenues.

The association has six members, but are looking for about 11 members after they write their constitution.

St-Pierre says Eglise Sainte-Marie is an iconic piece of history.

“It’s one of those amazing buildings that just speaks to people when they see it. Because of its size, its architectural styles. It’s just an amazing place.”

If the building can’t be saved, St-Pierre says they’d like to see it slowly deconstructed with documentation of the process.

But she says they’re confident it won’t get to that point.

“We’re looking at many different options, but we want to make sure the heritage of the building is maintained, and it can remain a gathering place for the community.”

St-Pierre adds they’re having positive dialogue with the Archdiocese and other community groups.