Two Haverhill-based nonprofits and others in the area will help tell the story of Massachusetts’ pivotal role in the 250th anniversary of the nation’s independence.
Historic New England and the Museum of Printing were tapped Tuesday to share in $1.5 million to promote “Massachusetts 250.” Others nearby playing larger roles are Museum of Old Newbury, Newburyport, and North of Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, Salisbury.
“Massachusetts is where the Revolution began and where the Revolution continues. We are first in freedom, first in education, first in health care and first in innovation. And with Massachusetts 250, we’re leading commemorations of the Revolutionary War for the next two years,” said Gov. Maura T. Healey. She added the celebration will also draw visitors and drive local economies.
Historic New England, which is also planning a downtown Haverhill visitor center, was awarded $25,000 to conduct a marketing campaign and programming “emphasizing the revolutionary themes and programs to be experienced at Historic New England’s 22 Massachusetts Properties.” The Museum of Printing will use $7,500 for its “Revolution: Then and Now” program. It is described as “a series of exhibits, lectures, demonstrations and maker events focusing on the importance of printing and handbills in Massachusetts during the American Revolution.
Nearby, Museum of Old Newbury was awarded $65,000 for Newburyport’s “Road to Revolution,” which will explore the events and decisions that led to Newburyport’s early support of the revolutionary cause. North of Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau plans to use $32,000 to produce marketing videos featuring man-on-the-street-style content to promote exploration.
Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll joined Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, state officials, legislators, and representatives from the Massachusetts arts, culture and tourism industry at the State House to launch the campaign.
“Massachusetts 250 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate Massachusetts’ history and showcase the state as a top destination for visitors from across the country and worldwide,” said Driscoll.
Grants will pay projects that “highlight historic themes of revolution and independence, celebrate significant ‘firsts’ in Massachusetts history, and take a creative or innovative approach to commemorating the state’s past 250 years.
View article: https://whav.net/2024/09/17/haverhills-historic-new-england-and-museum-of-printing-receive-grants-for-nations-250th-birthday/
