National Historic Landmark Lippitt House Museum Launches Major Restoration Project

For the first time since its completion in 1865, the Lippitt House Museum in Providence, RI, is undergoing a full restoration of its exterior masonry façade. A National Historic Landmark, Lippitt House is one of the best-preserved Victorian homes in Rhode Island and was the stage from which Mary Ann Balch Lippitt and her daughter Jeanie advocated for public education for Deaf children in the 19th century.  

The historic structure at 199 Hope Street has not been repointed since its construction. Over the last 160 years, the mortar binding the bricks and brownstone has significantly deteriorated. This comprehensive restoration—the final milestone in a 15-year preservation master plan—will address immediate safety concerns and prevent environmental damage from reaching the museum’s fragile hand-painted interiors. 

The museum aims to complete the restoration within one year—an approach that will help reduce overall costs and minimize disruption to the community. The work is being overseen by preservation specialists Haynes/de Boer Architecture + Preservation and East Coast Masonry & Restoration, Inc, both based in Rhode Island. The project includes the meticulous repointing of the entire brick façade, as well as the repair and replacement of deteriorated historic brownstone elements, steps, and door sills. The replacement brownstone, custom-cut for the building, had to be sourced from Quarra Stone Company in Wisconsin. 

This masonry restoration is made possible thanks to support from federal, state, and private donors. Lead funding comes from the History of Equal Rights Grant Program, National Park Service, Department of the Interior. Additional support comes from the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts through appropriation by the General Assembly, the Champlin Foundation, and private donors. 

The total project cost is $1.3 million. While most funding has been secured, $150,000 remains to fully support the restoration. Community support will ensure both the successful completion of this effort and the long-term preservation of a valued resource for education and public engagement.  

“This masonry restoration project is a critical step in preserving a significant piece of Rhode Island’s history,” said Cathy Saunders, museum director, in a statement. “Lippitt House Museum provides a unique lens on 19th-century industry, immigration, design, and Deaf history, illuminating Providence’s rich cultural heritage.” 

Lippitt House Museum remains open throughout the restoration work. On Being American | Contemporary Artworks, Echoes of the Past will be on exhibition May 13–June 20 and again October 13–24, 2026. Weekly guided house tours are offered July through October and by appointment. Visit lippitthouse.org to learn about these and other program offerings in 2026.