Wentworth Coolidge Mansion Association

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Our Story

The Wentworth-Coolidge Commission (WCC) was formed in 1982 when Governor Hugh Gallen appointed a group of volunteers to help care for the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion. He tasked the Commission with making recommendations for furnishings, improvements, and future use of the Mansion. The WCC incorporated as the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Association (WCMA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The WCMA was established in order to fundraise and solicit grants in support of the Commission’s mission and goals. 

We have tackled a wide range of projects to help preserve this National Historic Landmark and attract increasing visitors to the site. Past projects included efforts to restore the historic heirloom lilacs to the site, landscape projects to augment the site’s natural beauty, and cleaning the furnishings inside the Mansion. The Association's current focus is the reinterpretation of Governor Benning Wentworth's public rooms. Lectures and other sponsored events draw people to this Portsmouth treasure while promoting the rich history of the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion.

Funding raised this year will, in part, support painting and lighting improvements in the Great Parlor, new interpretive signage, and accessibility.