The Stissing Center

The Stissing Center, formerly known as Memorial Hall, is a nonprofit organization and a significant cultural hub located in Pine Plains, Dutchess County, New York. Originally built in 1915, the building has undergone various transformations throughout its history.

History

The Stissing Center was constructed as a gift from Mary Ellen Lapham Saunders to honor her grandparents. Initially, it served as a meeting hall and performance space, featuring vaudeville shows and later minstrel performances. With the rise of film, it was remodeled into the Pine Plains Theater in 1935, offering cinema to the local community[1]. Over the years, it transitioned into an office building and a mall, including a sporting goods store and a laundromat, before sitting vacant for nearly three decades[3][4].

Restoration and Reopening

In 2014, a group of local individuals, led by Jack Banning, acquired the building to restore it as a performing arts center. Architect Doug Larson, a part-time resident of Pine Plains, volunteered to oversee the restoration, integrating modern elements with the building's original rustic charm[3]. The center reopened in August 2019 with a series of events, including a concert by Wynton Marsalis[4].

Mission and Activities

The Stissing Center aims to foster a vibrant cultural scene in Pine Plains and the broader Hudson Valley region by hosting diverse arts and community programs. It serves as a venue for high-quality musical and theatrical performances, as well as community events, creating a welcoming space that connects local residents with visitors from the surrounding area[5][4].

Cultural Significance

Located in the heart of Dutchess County, the center is strategically positioned to draw audiences from nearby urban centers while remaining deeply rooted in local culture. Its modern design, blending with historical elements, has received positive community feedback, making it an integral part of Pine Plains' revitalization efforts[3][4].