The historic Rockingham Ballroom in Newmarket is asking the public for help as it attempts to raise funds for a new sprinkler system, as mandated by the town Fire Department. If the Ballroom does not design and raise funds for a sprinkler system within the next few months, it is in danger of closing forever.

The one-story building on Ash Swamp Road currently has multiple exits but no sprinklers. According to owners Alan and Diane Roma, the estimated cost of installing sprinklers and accessing water flow is around $150,000. The club does not make enough revenue to cover that cost through its weekly ballroom dances.

Several other Seacoast performance venues have faced similar issues, including Ioka Theater in Exeter and The Stone Church in Newmarket. Unable to cover the cost of a new sprinkler system, the Ioka closed a couple of years ago. The Stone Church has come under new ownership but is still struggling to fund a sprinkler system.

The Rockingham Ballroom first opened its doors in 1934 and is one of the last remaining year-round ballrooms in New Hampshire. Over the years, the venue has hosted several generations of ballroom dancers, as well as jazz greats like Glen Miller and Tommy Dorsey. It also hosts charity events and an annual “Daddy-Daughter” dance.

The non-profit organization Friends of the Rockingham Ballroom has established a sprinkler project fund and is accepting donations. The group is planning a series of fundraising events and will be selling advertising space. They also need volunteers with grant writing experience. The group meets every Wednesday at the ballroom from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and supporters are urged to attend.

People who wish to donate should make checks payable to Friends of the Rockingham Ballroom and mail them to 22 Ash Swamp Road in Newmarket. To help in other ways, contact Roma at 603-498-5313 or Patti Blanchette at 603-431-7224.