LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation is thrilled to announce the initiation of “Hopemont Reimagined,” a comprehensive revitalization project that promises to redefine the historic Hopemont property on N. Mill Street. With a significant investment of $450,000, the renovation commenced in September and is set to continue for several months.
Hopemont Reimagined addresses critical deferred maintenance issues, ensuring the longevity and safety of this iconic flagship property. The comprehensive renovation includes an upgrade to the outdated electrical system, resolution of lingering plumbing and HVAC challenges, and repair of exterior masonry, including a damaged chimney. Interior improvements will encompass plaster repair, painting, and the restoration of the original Kentucky Ash floors.
The funds also include an investment in the collections of Hopemont. In a pivotal move to enhance Hopemont’s collections care, the Blue Grass Trust has welcomed Sara Elliot as a project-based Collections Manager. Boasting extensive experience, Sara has overseen distinguished museum collections in the state, including at the Kentucky Historical Society and Liberty Hall in Frankfort. Sara will play a crucial role in completing a comprehensive collections assessment, ensuring meticulous documentation, care, and utilization of the Blue Grass Trust’s diverse collections.
Hopemont’s Future: From Renovation to Preservation Hub
But this initial investment is just the start. Beyond the physical transformation, the Blue Grass Trust is working towards a future where Hopemont is a major hub of historic preservation in Central Kentucky. Upon completion of the “Hopemont Reimagined” plan, Hopemont will feature a preservation center, resource library, and exhibits showcasing its rich history. The second floor will revert to serving as the administrative offices of the Blue Grass Trust.
John Hackworth, long-time chair of the Hopemont Committee, expressed his excitement about the renewed focus on Hopemont, stating, “After years of consistent decline in visitors to the house museum, I am excited about this new purpose for Hopemont and getting more visitors inside the house than ever before.”
Hopemont, as the flagship property of the Blue Grass Trust, holds a pivotal role in the region’s preservation tradition. Jonathan Coleman, Executive Director of the Blue Grass Trust, emphasized its historical significance, “Without Hopemont, the rich tradition of preservation in Central Kentucky would be vastly different. With this $450,000 stewardship investment, we’re building Hopemont into a springboard from which we can offer more preservation resources and services to everyone in Central Kentucky with an interest and passion for saving our historic places.”
Hopemont Reimagined represents a bold step towards a vibrant future for historic preservation in Central Kentucky, demonstrating the Blue Grass Trust’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding and celebrating our shared heritage.
For more information about the Blue Grass Trust and its Hopemont property, visit www.bluegrasstrust.org.
