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Restoration
The InSpire 150 Campaign at the Woodstock Academy will be used to continue restoring the original historic Academy Building. Above is an architect's rendition of the Model United Nations space. At right is the recently restored spire. The clock was also restored. The total cost is $5.5 million. The Woodstock Academy photos.
WOODSTOCK — Oct. 14, The Woodstock Academy launched InSpire 150, the Campaign for the Academy Building, in celebration of the structure’s 150th anniversary in 2023.
With this launch, The Academy has planned a complete renovation to revitalize and restore the historic elements of the building and update it for modern, innovative classroom usage for future generations of Academy students.
The renovations for this project are being conducted in two phases with a total completion period of two years. The total cost is $5.5 million.
The first phase, already completed in summer 2021, included a complete restoration of the clock tower and weathervane, new structural bracing, new roofing, and fresh paint.
Additionally, it received new clock controllers and bell interface, which enables the bell to chime on the hour every day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. as it traditionally did.
Phase two consists of a combination of new and restored windows, accessibility throughout the building, restroom upgrades, restoration of the central auditorium and stage, new electrical and heating systems, new AV systems, stabilization of the existing wood framing at the base of the building, interior painting, and a new metal batten seam roofing to match the original roof from 1873. Phase two is set to begin in spring 2022 and completion is planned for the fall of 2023.
The renovation of the central auditorium, the largest space in the building, is the future home of the Model United Nations program and a key element in providing students access to the innovative, inclusive environment necessary to learn and grow beyond their expectations. The Academy’s three-time defending national champion Model United Nations program is just one of the many programs that will significantly benefit from the Academy Building’s renovations.
“Since its construction in 1873 by Henry Chandler Bowen, almost every single Woodstock Academy student has been impacted by this historic and iconic building,” said Head of School Christopher Sandford.
“As an institution, we understand the importance of this renovation as the Academy Building will continue to inspire and impact future generations of Academy students to come.”
The total cost of the renovation is projected at $5,500,000 and The Academy is exploring all funding options to efficiently complete the project. Included is an approval for a Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit of up to $1.58 million, which the Academy Building is eligible for since it is on the National Register of Historic Places.
“Our alumni and friends have already shown tremendous generosity toward this project and as we extend this campaign to our larger constituency we anticipate a high level of participation,” said Jonathan Sturdevant, Associate Head of School for Advancement.
To explore giving options or learn more about InSpire 150, the Campaign for the Academy Building, visit woodstockacademy.org/inspire150.
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