The landmark Budworth Hall in Ongar High Street could face closure unless a willing group of volunteers can be found to take over its running.
The historic hall and community centre faces an uncertain future as four of its executive committee of seven will not be standing for re-election.
Treasurer David Clouting fears that many of the activities in the hall will have to be cancelled and the doors could eventually close if new blood cannot be found.
He told the Brentwood Gazette: "We are desperately trying to find people because we don't want to pack up after all the hard work that has gone in. I have been forced to write to the Charity Commission to say I'm not sure the Budworth Hall can carry on."
Mr Clouting, who is 71 and still works full time, has been on the committee for more than 20 years and feels it is time to hand over to a new generation - if one can be found.
He said: "We all want to see it go on and it's a pity we want to pack up but you do get to a point in life where you have to say enough is enough. I'm 71 and Edna Treadwell is 84. What we really need is a few young people who are interested in taking it on."
The hall is self-funding and has around £40,000 in the bank but Mr Clouting fears that unless new volunteers can be found before the community association's AGM on October 28, its resources could be dwindled away.
The Hall was opened on February, 9, 1887 in memory of Ongar magistrate and very active member of the community, Captain Philip John Budworth.
It has been run by the Ongar and District Community Association since 1968.
Published Monday October 4, 2004
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