Our history

The 1772 Foundation was named in honor of its first restoration project, Liberty Hall in Union, New Jersey. Built in 1772 by William Livingston, New Jersey’s first elected governor, the residence was home to generations of the Livingston and Kean families, including Stewart Barney Kean, who founded the 1772 Foundation in 1984. Liberty Hall has since been converted into a museum adjacent to the Kean University campus.

Upon Mr. Kean’s death, in 2002, the Foundation grew from a $2.1 million private foundation to one with over $80 million in assets. In the 20+ years since then, the foundation has granted more than $60 million for historic preservation work throughout the United States. After learning of the Kean Family’s ties to slavery, the 1772 Foundation has committed to increased funding to racial justice and African American history funding.

Enslavement Statement

What is dynamic preservation?

For the 1772 Foundation, dynamic preservation refers to a forward-thinking approach that goes beyond the traditional conservation of historic buildings and landmarks. It emphasizes adaptability, inclusivity, and community engagement to ensure that preservation efforts remain relevant and impactful in a rapidly changing world. Dynamic preservation is about embracing the evolving needs of communities and finding innovative ways to keep historic places alive, useful, and meaningful.

This approach recognizes that preservation is not just about protecting the past but also about enriching the present and future. It involves integrating modern technologies, sustainable practices, and creative uses of historic spaces to meet contemporary needs while honoring their heritage. For instance, adaptive use of historic buildings for new purposes, such as converting old factories into housing or community spaces, reflects the dynamic nature of this approach.

Dynamic preservation also includes a commitment to telling a broader and more inclusive range of stories, ensuring that diverse voices and histories are represented and celebrated. It is about actively engaging with communities, understanding their needs and values, and involving them in the preservation process.

Ultimately, dynamic preservation for the 1772 Foundation is about challenging historic preservation to be a living, evolving practice that connects people to their heritage in meaningful and sustainable ways.