1772 Foundation Moves to Newport

Photo Credit: Northeast Collaborative Architects

Earlier this month, The 1772 Foundation pulled up stakes and moved from Connecticut to the Aquidneck Mill Building in downtown Newport.

The foundation, which helps preserve the architectural and agricultural history of the Northeast by awarding millions in grants to preservation projects, has held quarterly meetings in Newport in the past, and “trustees and staff have come to appreciate this vibrant, cosmopolitan city,” said B. Danforth Ely, president of The 1772 Foundation.

The foundation’s new home is quite the fit. Located at 499 Thames Street, they’re tucked in the circa 1831 mill owned by the IYRS Trade & Tech School that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was recently refurbished by Northeast Collaborative Architects, a powerhouse in the historic restoration business.

The foundation joins IYRS’ administrative offices, a research library and space for meetings and organizations.

The Foundation’s executive director, Mary Anthony, said “the historic city of Newport is a wonderful fit for the Foundation and provides many opportunities for interaction with historic preservation and funding colleagues.”

The 1772 Foundation was named in honor of its first restoration project, Liberty Hall in Union, NJ, which was built in 1772 and is the ancestral home of the Livingston and Kean families. The late Stewart B. Kean was the original benefactor of The 1772 Foundation. The Foundation seeks to continue his legacy throughout the country by helping preserve architectural and cultural history and agricultural landscapes for generations to come. More information about The 1772 Foundation may be found at www.1772foundation.org.