The Lexington Historical Society selected the Massachusetts-based women-owned H2 design studio to create a physical starting point for visitors to journey through Lexington’s rich, diverse and dynamic history.
The association set a fundraising goal of $500,000 and achieved it in less than nine months through a combination of individual donations, state funds allocated by Rep. Michelle Ciccolo, and a fundraising campaign. Senator Chiccoro points out: We look forward to seeing this project come to fruition and know it will be of great benefit to the people of Lexington and all of its visitors. The project will transform the Society’s headquarters into an interactive exhibition and educational space, allowing visitors to experience Lexington’s history and three of her other museums curated by the Society (Bachmann Tavern, Mannrotavern and Hancock Clark House). make it possible.
Ang Lee, president of the Lexington Historical Society, is thrilled to see this long-term goal come to fruition. “When the Society purchased the Depot in 2002, the goal was always to ultimately create a flexible and dynamic space that showcased the many facets of Lexington’s history to audiences. We didn’t have the funding to do it – until now.We’re proud to say that cutting-edge companies, selected from a national survey, are ready to tell the diverse stories of our towns and their impact on our nation. I am excited.”
Executive Director Carol S. Ward is thrilled to have the opportunity to help shape this historic space integral to the association’s operations. “From the moment I stepped into the Depot during my interview here in Lexington, I saw the immense potential of this space. Shape it as you move forward.”
The importance of synergies between the society and the chosen company is very valuable, and Larissa Hansen, Principal and Creative Director of H2 Design Studio understands this. “As we look to the future of museums and cultural centers, we see a more relevant and inclusive approach to the types of stories told about the past and present, who are welcomed as visitors, and how audiences are engaged. It is clear that there is a need for the Lexington Historical Society and H2 Design leadership to align with this line of thinking and apply it as they envision the next chapter of The Depot. I am really happy and very honored to have been chosen to lead the project.Exhibition, media and brand/identity design.”
Founded in 1886, the Lexington Historical Society is an independent, nonprofit organization passionate about preserving and sharing Lexington’s history with the public. The mission of the Historical Society is to be the supreme interpreter of the April 1775 events and the faithful custodian of all the history of the town through time.
This project is currently in the design stage. The association’s annual meeting, scheduled for the evening of April 4, 2023, will be the first opportunity for the public to see mock-ups and renderings of the new space and hear from the association’s stakeholders. About H2’s vision for the space. The project is expected to be completed and open to the public in the fall of 2024.
For more information about the Depot Transformation project, visit https://www.lexingtonhistory.org/ or call 781-862-1703.
