YES.

Our Continuing Story

In 2014, Memorial Hall was purchased at auction by three local supporters. Their intent was that the historic building be restored and returned to its original purpose, as a center for the regional community and a beacon of cultural vibrance and civic pride. It was donated in 2015 to the recently established Pine Plains Memorial Hall, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

In May, 2019, Memorial Hall was renamed The Stissing Center. The newly-named organization celebrated the opening of its doors in late summer 2019 with its first series of performances — a Construction Concert Series — featuring a “Community Surprise Party and Ribbon Cutting” and a benefit concert with Wynton Marsalis.

This could not have been achieved without the generosity of donors, sponsors, and local supporters. Fundraising continues as there’s still much to do.

Performances and programs will begin again in Spring 2020, as the building does not yet have the full heating and air conditioning capacity to allow year-round programming.

When the renovations are complete, programming throughout The Stissing Center will be in full swing. There will be performances on stage and special events on the main level. The ground floor will be home to a community kitchen, event and meeting space, dressing rooms, and a green room. And, there will also be space for other non-profits, rehearsals, exhibitions, workshops, and art studios up on the top floor.

What’s next? The Stissing Center needs an addition at the rear of the building to house the HVAC needed for year-round operation, as well as a freight elevator and rear entrance. This is still a significant portion of our capital campaign. Your support is greatly appreciated!

With the support of the town government and local community, The Stissing Center is on track to achieve its goals of local economic revitalization and job creation, all in service of the people of Dutchess, Columbia, and the entire Hudson Valley region.

Our Mission

Our mission is to foster community and economic development in Northern Dutchess County and surrounding areas through the transformation of The Stissing Center (formerly Pine Plains Memorial Hall) into a regional center for community-based civic and social programs, arts education and cultural performances, and as an incubator for local charitable organizations and entrepreneurs.

The goal of The Stissing Center is to transform Pine Plains into a thriving tourist destination to generate local economic revitalization and to create a healthier and more vibrant community.