The Newport Historical Society (NHS) announced today that The Champlin Foundation has awarded the organization $65,655 to support their effort to create a center for Black history at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House. The grant comes on the heels of a $100,000 grant for the project from the BankNewport Charitable Foundation.
To date, the NHS has raised more than $3.5 million to bring its vision for the center to life, including renovations and the cost of hiring a permanent program director who will oversee public programming and fixed and rotating exhibitions on Black history.
Newport Historical Society appoints Dr. Akeia de Barros Gomes to lead new center for Black History
“The momentum and enthusiasm for a center for Black history in Newport continues to grow, and we are incredibly grateful to The Champlin Foundation and BankNewport for their support for this important initiative,” said NHS Executive Director Rebecca Bertrand. “Together, with these champions for historic preservation and a growing network of donors and supporters, we are forging ahead on plans to make a treasured property open to all and to center the stories of Black leaders and families in the history of our city.”
The funding from The Champlin Foundation, whose grantmaking focuses on capital improvements, will cover electrical, sewer, and water restoration as the NHS works to make the 327-year-old Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House ADA-compliant and accessible for all visitors.
BankNewport’s grant will be allocated to general construction costs, according to Newport Historical Society.
“BankNewport is proud to continue its longstanding tradition of supporting organizations that strengthen and uplift our communities,” said Jack Murphy, President and CEO of BankNewport in the company’s announcement last week. “These grants reflect our commitment to addressing critical needs across the state and empowering organizations that make a positive difference every day.”
Additional upgrades needed for the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House include a new HVAC system with humidity control, an ADA accessible entrance and lobby, and a new roof, among other projects. The Voices Campaign also includes plans for a permanent program director, who will be responsible for public programming, and both fixed and rotating exhibitions on Black history.
To learn more about the campaign, visit Voices.NewportHistory.org.
