Hammond Castle Museum Announces Inaugural “Seaside Soirée” New summer fundraiser to support preservation and accessibility initiatives as the historic Museum enters its centennial era.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May, 27, 2026
 
Seaside Soirée:
Friday, July 17, 6:00 pm – 10 pm.
 
Hammond Castle Museum Announces Inaugural “Seaside Soirée”
New summer fundraiser to support preservation and accessibility initiatives as the historic Museum enters its centennial era.

Gloucester, MA, May 27, 2026 — Hammond Castle Museum is proud to announce the launch of its new signature fundraiser, the Seaside Soirée, taking place on Friday, July 17, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Framed between the Gloucester coastline and the Museum’s iconic castle towers, the evening will celebrate Hammond Castle Museum’s enduring legacy as a cultural anchor for Cape Ann while raising critical funds to preserve and expand access to one of New England’s most distinctive historic sites. Guests attending the Soirée will enjoy guided champagne tours of the Museum, an open bar, and a curated menu of local fare within the immersive atmosphere of the seaside castle setting.

“This event represents far more than a chance to come together and celebrate the Museum’s impact,” said Linda Harvey, Executive Director. “Together with our Board, staff, partners, and community, we are strengthening our mission, expanding access, and ensuring Hammond Castle Museum remains a vibrant and sustainable institution for generations to come.”
The summer fundraiser comes at a pivotal moment in the Museum’s history. This year marks 100 years since construction first began on the castle, built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr. The Soirée also launches a broader strategic planning effort leading toward a large-scale centennial gala planned for 2030.

Funds raised through the event will support both immediate and long-term preservation needs. Current short-term restoration priorities exceed $500,000 and include restoration of the Museum’s leaded glass windows, conservation of its 15th-century Byzantine Christ painting, and preservation of a rare textile collection featuring gowns designed by Mariano Fortuny.
Longer-term priorities include restoration of the Museum’s historic pipe organ, built by Hammond himself, and conservation of untouched rooms within the castle that have remained preserved for more than half a century.
"While it’s easy to appreciate the incredible work and resulting events and exhibits planned, produced, and supported by our dedicated staff, there is a staggering amount of planning and restoration also taking place on the Museum’s infrastructure," said Mike Chapman, President of the Board of Directors. “We are continuously working to preserve the structure and our extraordinary collections.”

In addition to preservation efforts, proceeds from the Soirée will support initiatives focused on accessibility and community engagement. Current priorities include translating tour materials and the Museum website into additional languages, implementing audio and virtual tours, and expanding access initiatives for underserved audiences.
Over the past year, the Museum realized a nearly 200% increase in free and reduced admissions for low-income participants and provided nearly $140,000 in complimentary admission access to Gloucester residents, young children, and low-income households.

The Seaside Soirée marks the beginning of a new era of philanthropic stewardship for the Hammond Castle Museum, strengthening its future while honoring its past. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and additional event information are available at: https://bit.ly/HCMSoiree
 
About Hammond Castle Museum
Hammond Castle Museum, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and legacy of John Hays Hammond Jr., renowned as “The Father of Radio Control.” Built from 1926 to 1929 and incorporated as a museum in 1930, the castle served as Hammond’s residence and laboratory, showcasing his pioneering work in radio control and military technology, including guided torpedoes. The Museum features a collection of Hammond’s patents and the only surviving mural by American Artist and Illustrator, Eric Pape. As a STEAM-inspired organization, Hammond Castle Museum combines its historic significance as a house museum and lapidarium, highlighting works of stone and marble, with daily tours, temporary exhibitions, and educational and cultural events throughout the year. Hammond Castle Museum is also available for private event rentals. For more information, please contact Hammond Castle Museum at info@hammondcastle.org or visit www.hammondcastle.org.
 
 
Media Contact
Mary Goldberg
Senior Director of Marketing & Communications
Hammond Castle Museum
Mary@hammondcastle.org