“Sacred Spaces as Civic Spaces”
The BHCA and the Museum of African American History once again collaborated for the Historic Preservation Roundtable, held last Wednesday evening at the MAAH.
The distinguished panel of the fifth HPR included Barnet Kessel, Executive Director of the Vilna Shul, Marita Rivero, Executive Director of the MAAH, and Architect Don Mills of Mills Whittaker Architects.
The discussion, moderated by Mark Kiefer, past President and Chairman of the BHCA and past member of the Beacon Hill Architectural Commission, focused on the idea of houses of worship and their modern use as centers of civic activity, and what is involved in the decision to restore or renovate, and how to prioritize what is required and what is feasible in that restoration.
The Vilna Shul is currently completing the first phase of a capital campaign to allow the restoration of this historic building beginning this fall. The issue of accessibility for all is a key feature of this restoration, as is has been for the MAAH and the Park Street Church, a restoration project of Architect Mills. The MAAH is a fully rounded and accessible historic treasure, and one that invites travelers and neighbors alike to enjoy the quiet areas within and the living history held there.
Our next Historic Preservation Roundtable will be held in the late fall. Look for more information in our weekly e-newsletters. To sign up for our informative newsletters, write to [email protected] or call 617-227-1922.
BHCA Young Friends Social, Wednesday, August 29th
The next BHCA Young Friends Social will be held at Harvard Gardens, 316 Cambridge Street, on Wednesday, August 29th at 6:30 pm. Come join this lively group for a beer, free appetizers and a great time!
The September YFS is scheduled for September 19th.
Come join us!
Beacon Hill Civic Association committees and special events bring together volunteers and neighbors, working together to assure a good quality of life on the Hill. All residents are welcome to become members and participate.
Upcoming Meetings
Wednesday, September 5: Cambridge Street Committee Meeting. 6pm. 74 Joy Street. Zoning & Licensing Committee Meeting. 7pm. 74 Joy Street.
Thursday, September 6: Board of Directors Meeting. 7pm. 74 Joy Street.
Upcoming BHCA Events
Young Friends Social – August 29
First Friday Coffee Hour – September 7 (at Panificio)
Young Friends Social – September 19
Fall HillFest – September 23
Evening at 74 – November 8
47th Annual Beacon Hill Gala – February 9
Visit the Beacon Hill Civic Association website www.bhcivic.org or call the office (617-227-1922) for more information on any of these events or to become a member.