Cannonball Gala to support historic renovations March 29

Historic Lewes has secured two major grants totaling $120,000 to support the restoration of the Cannonball House Maritime Museum, a point of significant historical interest in the First Town. 

A generous $15,000 pledge from an anonymous donor further strengthens this critical effort, which is set to begin this spring. Together, these contributions bring the project to nearly 50% of the funding needed to complete the first stage of restoration.

“The Cannonball House has come to represent not only the Lewes Historical Society, but the community of Lewes and our proud maritime heritage,” said Andrew Lyter, executive director of Historic Lewes. “Thanks to the generosity of the Welfare Foundation, Crystal Trust, and our anonymous donor, we can begin this essential multi-stage restoration effort.”

Guided by recommendations from the Historic American Buildings Survey, comprehensive restoration of the Cannonball House will be completed in three stages.

The first stage will address urgent needs including waterproofing, exterior preservation, and the construction of a wheelchair-accessible ramp to enhance inclusivity.

Future stages will focus on transforming the back garden into an interactive maritime learning space and re-curating exhibits to tell a broader, more complete story, highlighting the contributions of Black sailors, local residents and militia members during the War of 1812.

“I am thrilled to contribute to the repair and restoration of the Cannonball House,” said Tom Lepore, director of facilities and grounds for Historic Lewes. “These grants provide vital resources to preserve and protect one of Lewes’ most treasured landmarks, and we will ensure that all restoration work is completed with precision and authenticity, as outlined by the historians at HABS.”

To celebrate the funding milestone and to inspire further community engagement, Historic Lewes will host its inaugural Cannonball Gala Saturday, March 29, at the Lewes Yacht Club. The evening will feature cocktails, a seated dinner, historical interpretations, live music and dancing, and both silent and live auctions - all supporting the organization’s mission to preserve and share the town’s past. Organizers are seeking sponsors to support the gala and the Cannonball House historic renovations. 

“The successful completion of the Cannonball House restoration efforts will rely on the community’s continued support through additional donations, grants, and participation in the gala,” Lyter said. “Together, we can secure the long-term preservation and accessibility of this historic site for generations to come.”

Built in 1742, the Cannonball House was the first property acquired by the Lewes Historical Society. Known for withstanding the British bombardment during the War of 1812, it bears a replica cannonball embedded in its foundation, a powerful symbol of Lewes’ resilience and maritime heritage.

For more information, go to historiclewes.org.