MIDDLEBORO — A new chapter will be written in the history of a vintage Middleboro building.

The 209-year old Peter H. Peirce Homestead at 132 North Main St. in Middleboro center has been gifted to the Friends of The Middleboro Public Library. The organization, which provides support to the Middleboro Public Library, plans to use the space for community-based programs related to the library and to promote the history of the building and its occupants.

The property was bequeathed to the organization by building owner William Decas, who died in June at 77. 

He had a long history with the building. The attorney practiced law there for many years with his late brother George Decas and Daniel Murray as the law firm of Decas, Murray and Decas. 

The gift will make a significant contribution to the future of the library and the community, Friends vice president Paula Fay said. 

“The Board of Directors for the Friends of the Middleboro Public Library are grateful for Attorney Decas’ generosity and are committed to having the Peter H. Peirce Homestead contribute to the future growth of services and programs offered by the library,’’ she said. “Attorney Decas’ gift to the Friends is a gift to all residents of Middleboro and the surrounding communities.’’

The building boasts a rich history.

Built in 1814, the Peirce Homestead began as a two-story federal style home. In 1827, the front part of the home was raised and a slightly wider first floor with higher ceilings than the previous first and second floors of the original house was constructed. 

Besides providing four extra rooms, the addition and widening of the ground floor accommodated a three story, oval-shaped circular suspended staircase which continues to be a prominent feature of the homestead. 

While retaining its federal characteristics, Peter Peirce and his wife, Nabby incorporated Greek revival features into the home. This included an open porch with Tuscan columns on three sides of the front of the house and elaborate scroll work along the interior of the staircase.

In the mid-1960s, George Decas heard the Peirce homestead might be razed and replaced with a gas station. George, who his brother William had described as “historically minded,’’ was upset with the idea and instead purchased the building and made considerable investment in the renovation.

William Decas approached the Friends about two years ago about his wish to leave the homestead, which had so much significance to his family, to the organization, Fay said. 

 “He discussed his desire to strengthen the public library and how the mission of the Friends focuses on his dedication to both the library and community,’’ Fay said. “Attorney Decas recognized the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library as one of the most significant nonprofits in Middleboro dedicated to enhancing the services provided to all residents of our town.’’

The use of the building for library support is fitting, in light of the Peirce and Decas family commitment to the library. 

In 1901, Thomas S. Peirce, one of Peter and Nabby Peirce’s ten children, bequeathed $50,000 to build the library, plus the income from an additional $50,000 to serve as a trust fund for materials purchases. 

And now, a new gift means another iteration for the structure.

 The timetable for the transition is undetermined. The estate must be processed through probate, which could take up to a year, although the process may move more quickly, Fay said.

The Friends are in the process of identifying a variety of funding sources to support the new use. 

Grant funding will be sought through the Community Preservation Act, Massachusetts Development, Massachusetts Cultural Council and Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism.  

Initial work needed will include clearing and landscaping the rear of the property and upgrading the currently vacant studio apartment. 

The Friends will also look at “both in-kind service and fund-raising strategies’’ to address initial priorities which include clearing and landscaping the rear of the property and upgrading the currently vacant studio apartment.  

“Attorney Decas’ gift of the original homestead to our organization allows a significant building in Middleboro to be a focal point for the future,’’ Fay said.