Preserving Cottage 24 for the Future

07.23.2019 - Giving to Kanuga

Earlier this month, the past and present met for a very special moment. Cottage 24 was dedicated on the afternoon of July 7 to celebrate the completion of an extensive renovation project.

“We are so grateful for all the donors—who through their leadership, long-term friendships, and relationships through Kanuga helped us strengthen and build our community,” said Michael R. Sullivan, Kanuga President.

Blessing the Past for Future Generations

The dedication was led by Rev. Kenneth G. K. Henry and included a blessing of the cottage and a seven-fold Native American and Celtic blessing. Afterwards, all guests were invited to tour the cottage and enjoy a reception hosted by Matt and Elizabeth Henry and Charlie and Gay Redfern. The Henrys and Redferns are longtime Summer Guest Period Two families and have resided in Cottage 24 throughout their years at Kanuga.

Designed by architect Richard Sharp Smith, the cottage is over a century old and is part of the Kanuga Lake Historic District. The cottage was originally designed as a six-bedroom, three-bath cottage. Now, it is a six-bedroom, six-bath cottage and includes a large front porch, making it the largest cottage at Kanuga.

Gifts Given from the Heart

Renovations to the cottage totaled $150,000. Donations were generously given by Matt and Elizabeth Henry, Charlie and Gay Redfern, Randy and Susan Moring, Ken and Ellen Chance, Sarah Henry, Peter and Allison Henry Mayer, Chip Redfern, and Gary Giniat. Funds were also given in memory of Betty Brandon by Varian Brandon Hunt and John Brandon.

“We are very grateful for the donations that made the renovations possible on this important keystone cottage in the heart of Kanuga’s historic district,” said Jim Hackney, Executive Vice President of Advancement. “It is only through donations that we are able to renovate our historic campus.”

Join Us in Preserving More Kanuga Cottages

Other historic cottages on campus will be renovated as funds allow. To learn more about how you can help preserve a piece of Kanuga history, visit our website for giving opportunities.