At the heart of Hale Farm & Village’s mid-19th-century community stands the Meetinghouse, the historic focal point of the East Side village. Dating to the 1800s, this beautifully preserved structure once served as a gathering place for worship, civic discussion, and community life. Today, the Meetinghouse welcomes up to 170 guests and offers a timeless setting for a picturesque “little white chapel” wedding ceremony, where history, charm, and romance come together in an unforgettable way.
The Mary Ann Sears Swetland Memorial Meetinghouse
The Mary Ann Sears Swetland Memorial Meetinghouse at Hale Farm & Village is a treasured piece of mid-19th century Western Reserve history. Built in 1852 in the Greek Revival style locally in Streetsboro, Ohio this former Baptist meetinghouse was later used by a Methodist congregation and was carefully relocated to Hale Farm to preserve its legacy for future generations. Typical of “meetinghouses” in the period, it served not only as a place of worship but also as a community gathering space at the heart of village life.
Today, the Meetinghouse retains its historic character including original pews and period details while thoughtfully incorporating modern comforts such as heat, electricity, and a finished basement with restrooms. A traditional balcony adds charm and provides an elevated space perfect for a string quartet, DJ, or photographer to enhance your celebration.
Free parking is available on the lawn behind the Carriage Pavilion, and the Meetinghouse is available for rent Monday through Sunday, both during and after public hours (June–October, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Questions?
HFV Rentals Manager
halerentals@wrhs.org
(330) 666-3711 x1712
Preparation & Set-up
Preparation and set-up times are arranged not to interfere with the general public or museum staff. Weddings generally begin at 5:30pm with guests arriving at 5:00pm. Making your event memorable is important to us; decorations are permitted as long as no tacks, nails, staples, or tape are used. Please consult the Rentals Manager for lighting and other decorating details. Delivery of equipment and/or instruments must be arranged in advance with the HFV Rentals Manager.
Staff & Security
Members of the Hale Farm & Village rentals staff are present at all rentals. The museum will arrange and schedule these staff members to help facilitate all aspects of your event, from set-up to tear-down.
When serving alcohol, it is the responsibility of the rental client to schedule for an off-duty Bath police officer to be present and for the alcohol to be served by an approved bartender or caterer.
Photography
Along with your rental, you and your photographer will have access to both the East and West Sides of Hale Farm & Village to capture one-of-a-kind outdoor photos throughout our scenic 90-acre property. Please note that during regular museum hours, the grounds and village may be open to the public, and other visitors may be present during your photography session.
If you wish to take photographs inside any of our 30+ historic buildings, an additional fee of $50 per building applies.
Payment Policy
A 50% nonrefundable deposit is required to hold the space and date, with the balance due no later than 30 days prior to the event in addition to a final walk through with the Rentals Manager. Facility and staffing fees do not include catering costs.
