We are excited to share that Peters Valley has received a grant of $126,496 to undertake critical exterior envelope and structural repairs to Munson House, one of the historic buildings on our campus, currently used for artist lodging. This grant is made possible through a partnership of the New Jersey Historic Trust and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
Whether you have walked by, driven by, or even stayed at Munson House, you may know that it is an essential part of the Peters Valley Historic District and currently serves as artist lodging for those visiting the school. This major grant will facilitate crucial renovations to the building, addressing deferred maintenance issues and ensuring its long-term preservation for future generations.
The planned improvements for Munson House encompass comprehensive repair work, which includes but is not limited to: Extensive repair to the porch to restore it to its former grandeur; mud sill and rim joist repairs to reinforce the building’s structural integrity; repair of damaged clapboard to maintain the historical authenticity of the structure; and foundation crack repair and resurfacing to provide a stable and secure foundation.
Munson House has five bedrooms and is currently used as a residence for visiting teaching artists, workshop students, and artists participating in immersive residencies at Peters Valley. This funding will not only rectify essential maintenance needs but also ensure that the building remains a welcoming and inspiring space for future artists.
We are deeply grateful to the New Jersey Historic Trust and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts for their support of this important project. Their generous contribution will help preserve the historic character of Munson House and ensure the house has a viable use for years to come as an important seasonal housing facility on campus.
We remain committed to preserving Peters Valley’s rich heritage and providing artists with a conducive environment to explore their craft. This grant represents a significant milestone in our journey to maintain and enhance our historical assets.
