Bethany Town Hall

Too expensive to bring up to code, old Bethany Town Hall demolished, cupola and bell saved

Howard Owens — Aug 23, 2023, 8:00am

A member of the demolition crew uses a chainsaw to cut one of the supports of the cupola before a crane lifts it off in one piece for the purpose of preservation.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Before Tuesday, the last person to ring the bell in the cupola of the old Bethany Town Hall was now-retired Town of Bethany employee Kenny Morgan.

That was 25 years ago, at least.

And he got in a bit of trouble for doing it.

In addition to a story, The Batavian is also publishing a video and 39 photos of the demolition. All of it exclusive to The Batavian. To get access immediately, join Early Access Pass.

Photos: Bethany Town Hall demolition

Howard Owens — Aug 23, 2023, 8:00am

Related story: Too expensive to bring up to code

Photos by Howard Owens.

Out of options, Bethany Town Board seeking bids for demolition of old town hall

Howard Owens — Jun 21, 2023, 8:30am

The Old Bethany Town Hall, built in 1832, is fated for demolition.
Photo by Howard Owens

Even many of Bethany's oldest residents, said Town Supervisor Carl Hyde, have come to accept the unpleasant but unavoidable and undeniable reality of the situation. The old Town Hall, built in 1832, must come down.

The town is currently accepting bids from demolition contractors.