Powder House Park & Learning Center
Preservation Week Open House Sunday May 18, 2020 from 12:30 – 2:30 PM. Visit and tour the inside of Newburyport’s 1822 Powder House. Built in the turbulent aftermath of the War of 1812, the Powder House stored gunpowder, flints, musket balls, and camp kettles used by the local militia to defend the community. In 2003 it was restored inside and out. Come see this unique historic building in person.
The spotlight continues to shine on our city’s restored 1822 Powder House. Powder House Park & Learning Center, located on Godfrey’s Hill at 57 Low Street, Newburyport, opened in fall 2012 after nine years of planning, research, and restoration — all supported by grants and generous donations. In 2013 NPT’s efforts to preserve the long-neglected structure — co-led by Tom Kolterjahn and Karen Holt — were recognized nationally with an Award of Merit from the American Association for State & Local History (AASLH). Since then, school group visits, Yankee Homecoming open house days, and Essex Heritage Trails & Sails events have introduced thousands of visitors to history and preservation at the Powder House.
Although restoration of the building is complete, work has continued on the grounds, including (1) durable interpretive panels that tell the story of the Powder House, (2) a detailed survey of the original cobblestone wagon path, and (3) the finishing touches of park landscaping. The Powder House serves Newburyport as a park and learning center for the edification of all, so the public is welcome to visit and stroll the park and read the interpretive panels during daylight hours between May and October.
To arrange a school group visit to the Powder House in the spring or fall, contact Tom Kolterjahn at 978-462-8081.
You can help the Powder House Park & Learning Center continue its service to the public by donating either money or some of your time and skill. Send a check to NPT Powder House Fund, P. O. Box 184, Newburyport, MA 01950, use our on-line donation form, or contact co-chairs Tom Kolterjahn at 978-462-8081,or Karen Holt at 978-465-6212