January 2010 -- The New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) recently awarded $75,000 in a matching grant to Star Island for replacement and repairs to the roof of the historic Oceanic Hotel complex. Star Island’s grant was one of 33 awards to 19 historical sites in New Hampshire and represents the only one in the Seacoast Area. (continued below)

The Oceanic Hotel, built in 1876, is the largest structure on Star Island. Its main lobby, writing room, Pink Parlor, and dining hall provide a glimpse into the life of the Grand Hotel Era of the late 1800’s when Star Island attracted such notable artists and writers as Childe Hassam and Nathaniel Hawthorne.  

Keith Noyes, Director of Operations and Maintenance for Star Island, said: "It was great news to get this grant and learn we would have help with our obligations to the National Trust for Historic Places and the Rye Historic District Commission in preserving these buildings. The grant plus the matching funds will allow us to re-roof the entire hotel complex and most importantly protect the historic interior spaces."  

The nonprofit Star Island Corporation has owned and operated Star Island since 1916, providing affordable individual and family retreats and conference facilities to over 4,000 people each summer. Its mission is to hold and administer Star Island and other properties for educational, religious, and kindred purposes. The organization is headquartered year-round from its offices at the Morton Benedict House at 30 Middle Street, Portsmouth, NH. Star Island is in the Town of Rye Historic District and on the National and State of New Hampshire Historic Registers.  

The New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) is an independent state authority that makes matching grants to NH communities and non-profits to conserve and preserve New Hampshire's most important natural, cultural and historic resources.