In 1884, William A. Slater made a gift to The Norwich Free Academy to honor his father, John Fox Slater (1814-1884), a successful businessman, corporator of NFA for 20 years, and the donor of the largest gift ever made to education in his day.
The Slater Memorial Museum was designed in the Richardson Romanesque style by Worcester, MA architect, Stephen C. Earle, and built by the Flynt Building and Construction Company, also of Worcester. The Museum's elegant brick and carved sandstone exterior, Tiffany-style stained glass windows, inlaid tile flooring, wood-paneled walls and ceilings, and imposing tower all recall its 19th-century origins.
Through a bequest in the will of Colonel Charles A. Converse, the Converse Building was constructed adjacent to the Slater in 1906. It is used for the Museum's rotating exhibitions, which often include the works of Connecticut artists and artisans.
Slater Memorial Museum is committed to providing a learning experience for visitors that is inclusive, multicultural, and entertaining. This is reflected not only in the scope of its collections, but also in the programs that it offers to elementary, high school, and college students, as well as to the general public.
The Slater Society at The Norwich Free Academy was established to recognize and thank those members and friends who have provided for the Museum in their estate plan. The Norwich Free Academy Foundation staff is available to Society members and their financial advisors to discuss estate and gift planning concerns.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ENDOWMENT:
The endowment program establishes a financial foundation for operating support and guarantees the Museum's effective ongoing administration, programs, and development. Endowment funds are used for:
- Acquisition
- Building improvements
- Curatorial activities
- Conservation
- Education
- Exhibits
- Lectures
- Operating expenses
- Publications
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP:
- Special announcements and invitations to attend curatorial talks and viewing of exhibits.
- A Slater Society pin, recognizing your commitment to the Slater Memorial Museum.
- Special mailings from The Slater Memorial Museum
- There are no dues or fees associated with membership.
HOW TO MAKE A PLANNED GIFT
PLANNED GIVING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
To request further information regarding Planned Giving at The Norwich Free Academy and Slater Memorial Museum, download our info request form (Adobe Acrobat Reader® required) or e-mail Deborah Lee, Director of Development.
