"After":
Spring 2007, after Phase II:
windows restored, facade cleaned, some repointing, major interior steel work.
"Before":
Spring 2004:
Boarded up windows, no temporary cornice, non-historic trees block facade. Phase I has not yet begun.
FRANKLIN STREET SCHOOL RECEIVES LARGEST GRANT AWARD
The Center for Community Arts was delighted to receive the news of a significant grant awarded through the New Jersey Historic Trust. The “granted” wish will provide much needed funds to preserve the historic Franklin Street School, an African American Historic Site. The Trust received 148 applications and only 61 were chosen. Of that 61, CCA received the largest grant by the Trust in this particular grant round.
The rehabilitation project is estimated to cost 3 million dollars and the work will be spread out in four phases. The $750,000 award must be matched dollar for dollar and the Trust must be kept informed about all activities involving the renovation: development of any research, planning, design, or construction documents. CCA is celebrating the completion of Phase II of the rehabilitation project and will use the grant funds to begin Phase III. This phase includes upgrading the electrical and plumbing systems, and repairs to internal features and finishes. At the conclusion of Phase III, the School will be issued a Certificate of Occupancy and fulfill its dream of becoming Cape May’s community cultural center.
The Franklin Street School was built in 1927 as a segregated elementary school for the city’s African American Children. Through CCA’s efforts, the State of New Jersey designated the neglected school an African American Historic Site. The Center acquired a 25 year lease from Cape May City in 2002; negotiations are currently underway to secure a 50 year lease. Once restored, the school will house CCA programs such as art classes, workshops, and lectures, as well as providing an open space for other community groups. The School will house the John and Janet Nash African American History Archives while serving as the focal point for the Center’s African American Heritage Tourism Initiative. In addition, it will accommodate a permanent exhibit about the history of the School and the contributions of African Americans to Cape May’s rich history.
Join CCA for the African American Heritage Tour every Thursday and Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. at the CCA office, 712 Lafayette Street, Cape May. The tour is a wonderful way to learn more about the impact of the African American Community in Cape May as well as getting a glimpse at the ongoing renovation of the Franklin Street School.
In August, the School will be open to the public for a free Community Open House on Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
CCA offers a variety of creative ways to get involved in giving. Individual memberships are as low as $10 per year and often provide discounts on programs. Donor recognition opportunities are available for those interested in supporting the preservation of the Franklin Street School. Call Steve or Judy at (609) 884-7525 to find out how you can help with this historic project. For more information about the Franklin Street School and CCA programs, log on to http://www.centerforcommunityarts.org/.
Phase II of the restoration was made possible by a capital grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust and the Garden State Historic Preservation Trust Fund, the State of New Jersey, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Sturdy Savings Bank, Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Swain's Ace Hardware, the Whale's Tale Jewelry and Gifts, the Delaware River and Bay Authority and many other local businesses, individuals and families. The Walking Tour is supported by an operating grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.
