WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (WENY) -- A former church in downtown Watkins Glen is receiving a makeover. The house of worship was abandoned for several years before a Schuyler County resident purchased the property. 

“We are at the church in Watkins Glen, 124 east fourth street. This is formally the Methodist church. Lastly, it was the chapel in the glen,” said Dan Rafferty. 

The church was built in 1940 and has seen multiple owners and businesses come through its doors. Dan Rafferty is restoring the property with the support of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development. 

“It had some roof damage so, as you can see, the walls, the plaster was starting to come down on one side and there is some foundational issues that are being addressed,” Rafferty recalled. 

Raferty’s application has been approved and will expand its three floors into a tavern, event space, and residence. Right now, the concern is fixing the structure so fine-tuning can begin inside. In 2021, the Church on Fourth Street had frozen pipes burst which causes interior damage. Now, Dan Rafferty is examining the property high and low, so the right teams can begin renovations soon. 

“I just think its structure has so much potential and to see it crumbling it's just a shame,” he said.  

Similar to many home improvement shows on T-V, Rafferty wants to repurpose as much of the original structure as possible. What can be saved will be. especially items that hold historic or sentimental value to the property. Sadly, the church organ which is integrated into the building is beyond repair. 

“The pews for example... We are going to repurpose the pews for seating and try to save any type of wooden structures that we can keep,” Rafferty concluded.  

Dan says he has admired this property for a long time, and he looks forward to renovating it and making it open to the public. WENY News will keep you updated on the progress and when you can officially stop by.