Connecticut Humanities Awards a generous grant to the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum for new exhibit

The Connecticut Humanities has awarded a $4,999 Quick Grant to the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum in support of the new exhibit, Demolish or Preserve: The 1960s at the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion.

“We are truly thankful to the Connecticut Humanities for supporting this terrific exhibit,” said Patsy Brescia, LMMM Chairman of the Board of Trustees, “and to all our State legislators for their continued focus and support of our historic site through the outstanding work of the Connecticut Humanities.”

The exhibition curated by Kathleen Motes Bennewitz, Demolish or Preserve: The 1960s at the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion explores the history of the Mansion’s rescue from demolition in 1962 to its 1971 designation as a National Historic Landmark. These events occurred against a backdrop of the era’s tumultuous cultural change and social unrest as well as a blistering pace of urban planning and demolition of historic buildings and neighborhoods, here in Norwalk and across the nation. Ms. Bennewitz has over 20 years of experience in the world of arts non-profit. She has been an independent museum consultant and curator for several local and national organizations including the Fairfield Museum, the Bush Holley House, and the Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum, to name a few.

“The Board of Trustees and I are truly grateful to the Connecticut Humanities for this generous award,” said LMMM Executive Director Susan Gilgore. “This true-to-life, inspirational spotlight on the 1960s will greatly enhance visitors’ experience and reenergize this National Historic Landmark as we celebrate the Museum’s 50^th anniversary with our communities.”

Connecticut Humanities (CTH) is a non-profit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities that funds, creates and collaborates on hundreds of cultural programs across Connecticut each year. These programs bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to express, share and explore ideas in thoughtful and productive ways. From local discussion groups to major exhibitions on important historical events, CTH programs engage, enlighten and educate. Learn more by visiting cthumanities.org.

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is located at 295 West Avenue in Norwalk. Tours are offered Wednesdays through Sundays, at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. For more information on tours and programs, visit lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, e-mail info@lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, or call 203-838-9799.