The Campaign for Locust Grove
The Campaign for Locust Grove looks forward to our third century in Louisville, while acknowledging and preserving the stories of the past 200 years. Locust Grove is undertaking a $3.2 million capital campaign to invest in our infrastructure, improve access to our site, and give us the flexibility to offer a diverse array of programming that captures the stories of people who lived, worked, and visited Locust Grove.
While Locust Grove’s historic house remains at the center of the site’s story and mission, the $3.2 million capital campaign, which includes a lead gift from long-time friend, supporter, and board member B. Preston Thomas, focuses on the other elements of the 55-acre site.
Visitor Center Upgrades
Funds raised for the capital campaign will refurbish and enhance the Martin F. Schmidt Visitors’ Center, build a pavilion for additional programming and rental space, and improve access and connections between the grounds and outbuildings.
Changes to the Visitors’ Center include:
- Renovated lobby with space for temporary exhibitions
- Creating an indoor/outdoor classroom
- Redesigning the museum store and admissions desk for a seamless visitor experience
- Creating a dedicated library space for researchers, historians, and others seeking to delve deeper into the story at Locust Grove.
Overall, the Visitors’ Center changes will improve efficiency and day-to-day activities for a growing staff and volunteer corps and allow visitors to maximize their time on the site.
Property Improvements
Finally, funds from the Capital Campaign will support improvements to Locust Grove’s 55-acre property:
- Creating more accessible paths connecting the outbuildings
- Reconfiguring the entrance
- Improving parking
- A meadow of native plants is also being planned for the site.
Since 2019, Locust Grove has raised gifts and pledges totaling $2.6 million towards the $3.2 million goal.
We are grateful for your support of the campaign for Locust Grove.
Gifts may also be made by calling 502-897-9845. Please indicate that your gift should be dedicated to the capital campaign.
Media Inquiries: Please contact marketing@locustgrove.org.