The Elephant House Restoration Project: A Barn-Raising

In the 100th year of the Goreyan Calendar, thanks to the generosity of the Highland Street Foundation, the Edward Gorey House is honored to announce the formal acquisition of 8 Strawberry Lane and the celebratory Elephant House Restoration Project and Barn-Raising. Named in honor of the New England tradition of a community coming together to build something greater than the sum of their parts, we are delighted to spearhead the renovation of the Captain Edmund Hawes home and the restoration of the historic Edward Gorey House Barn.

The House, to put it neatly, is a bastion of oddness. Thousands of patrons flock to 8 Strawberry Lane each year to delight in Edward's particular brand of the unnerving, strange, and delightful. We like to think we're doing our part in saving the world, one little book at a time. As the House has grown, we're constantly searching for new ways to connect with Goreyphiles both local and far-flung. The Barn, a 19th century two-story that looms ominously over the grounds of the House, has long been on our bucket list of Projects to Tackle Someday. Now that we've exorcised the raccoons in the attic and solved the mystery of the Dowager Duchess’s disappearance, the Barn is next in our sights.

The House is looking to undertake critical historical renovation on this lovely old building and convert the Barn into a working classroom, gallery and community space. In the last few years, we've received more requests than ever for artist events, exhibitions, and arts education. This renovation will provide much-needed space for House collections and exhibits, as well as a gathering place and educational center for the growing community of creatives, writers, and general oddballs who keep Edward's legacy alive.

With your support, the House will see much-needed repairs to secure the museum for years to come, and the Barn will reopen for our 25th Season as an educational center, gallery, performing space, and – above all – a place for community to gather and grow.