An online auction running through Nov. 25 will help pay for unexpected structural repairs and accessibility improvements at the Hoffman House in Gorham.
The Town of Gorham Historical Society is raising money after finding additional ceiling and floor support needs during restoration of the property at 2657 Route 245, according to a society news release.
Restoration reveals structural work
The society bought the house in October 2025 following a 16-month fundraising campaign. Its first restoration phase covers the first floor, excluding the kitchen, pantry and back room.
Workers removed modern materials and exposed original pine floors, plaster and lath. A roughly 5-by-3-foot section of the front room ceiling collapsed during the work, prompting an engineering review and additional support work for the second floor.
The added structural expense comes as the society prepares for its second phase, called Accessibility for All. Auction proceeds will support both the repairs and that next phase.
The auction opened Nov. 1 and closes at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25. Items include antiques, clothing, farm meats, artwork, floral arrangements and holiday goods.
People wishing to donate money or arrange shipping can contact Beth Watkins-Rasmussen at 585-506-6318. Nonlocal buyers can arrange UPS or FedEx shipping at their own expense, but those arrangements must be made before Nov. 25.
December open house and cookie sale
The society will hold an open house at the Hoffman House from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4. Refreshments and crafts are planned, with Santa visiting from 4 to 7:30 p.m.
The Gorham Free Library across the street will also host Danish Christmas activities.
Holiday cookie orders are due by 7 p.m. Dec. 8. Cookies cost $20 for one dozen or $75 for four dozen, with pickup Dec. 10-12 at the library.
Orders can be placed with Watkins-Rasmussen or by calling the library at 585-526-6655.
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