To continue and complete needed electrical repairs at Wistariahurst, the Museum was awarded $55,000 in 2021. The scope of Phase 1 (FY20) included the creation of detailed drawings of existing conditions and engineering planning services. In Phase 2, the existing feeders and panelboards from the Main House were replaced along with all associated wiring, trenching, reconnecting and related construction tasks. The Music Room lighting and electrical infrastructure was also updated, including perimeter lights, spotlights and up-lighting, bringing outlets up to code by grounding and covering them, and adding additional outlets behind the stage and in the balcony. Funding from The Wistariahurst Foundation and the Massachusetts Cultural Council financed additional lighting and auditory improvements.
Wistariahurst is an historic estate built in Holyoke in 1874 and listed on the National Register for Historic Places, the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places, and is noted as a significant building with a public orientation in the Holyoke Community Preservation Plan (HCPP). The site consists of two buildings, referred to as the Main House and Carriage House, and historically-inspired grounds and gardens. The property is protected by a preservation restriction held by the Massachusetts Historic Commission (MHC). Wistariahurst’s public programs and offerings engage around 10,000 participants annually, with many more people enjoying the grounds and facilities on their own. Educational, community, and cultural offerings are presented for free or low cost in order to increase access and encourage participation regardless of income status. Wistariahurst maintains close connections with the Holyoke public school system, providing field trips, resources for teachers, space for professional development, and High School internships. The overall audience is a balanced blend of Holyoke residents and members of surrounding communities drawn to Holyoke for the Museum's high-quality offerings.
