Founded in 2021 by Abigail Abbott, New Dawn Arts Center repurposed a historic church in downtown Ashburnham to combat isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing a safe space for creativity and cultural expression.

After a few years of fundraising, New Dawn is gaining momentum in a post-pandemic world. In 2024, the Center offered year-round programming for the first time, hosting events nearly every day and welcoming more than 3,500 visitors — over half the town’s population.

“Though it’s a small town, Ashburnham and the surrounding areas are home to many artists,” says Abby. “I wanted to create a space where artists could meet each other, share space and get inspired by each other.” 

New Dawn Arts Center hosts a diverse range of programs, from poetry readings and art exhibits to improv, book readings, and theatre performances. Concerts and live music are among the most popular, attracting audiences from Boston to Portland, Maine. The Center also collaborates with community partners, including the Ashburnham-Westminster Regional School District, to engage youth in the arts

Restoration and preservation of the church building is a priority for Abby and the broader community. “We have a lot of things that we care about and believe in, one of them being sustainability and historical preservation of the building,” she says. The main performance space includes original stained glass and pews, and the Sunday School classrooms have been converted into art and music classrooms. 

The Center also serves as a home for local businesses, including a dance studio and a grocery store, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits both tenants and visitors. Rental income helps keep New Dawn’s programs free or low-cost, ensuring accessibility for all. 

Looking ahead, Abby hopes to expand programming and hire part-time staff to support the Center’s growth. As New Dawn continues to evolve, its mission remains the same: to bring people together through the arts and create a lasting cultural hub for the community.

This story was originally published in our 2024 Annual Report.