Newton Council approves $323K for Jackson Homestead exhibit renovations and community engagement

Newton City officials announced exciting developments for the Jackson Homestead during the Programs & Services Committee meeting on April 24, 2025. The city plans to utilize Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to enhance the historic site, focusing on essential repairs and a significant new exhibit aimed at enriching the community's understanding of local history.

The funding will support the restoration of porches and gutters, addressing ongoing water issues at the Homestead. More notably, a major new exhibit will be installed on the first floor, replacing an outdated display in the basement. This state-of-the-art exhibit will feature interactive elements that engage visitors in a tactile and auditory manner, moving beyond traditional screens. The initiative aims to highlight underrepresented stories in Newton's history and will include artifacts that are rarely displayed.

In addition to the exhibit, the project will also improve the museum's website, enhancing access to archives and educational resources for K-12 students. The city is optimistic that these upgrades will not only attract more visitors to the museum but also bring history to the public through traveling displays in various city spaces.

Councillors expressed their support for the project, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and the need for ongoing funding to sustain these initiatives. The proposed budget for the project stands at $323,093, with a call for community members to contribute to fundraising efforts.

As the city moves forward with these plans, the Jackson Homestead is set to become a more vibrant hub for historical education and community interaction, promising to enrich the cultural landscape of Newton.