A Center for Arts & Culture
In its rehabilitated form, the Armory will promote local arts initiatives, support economic growth, and preserve the rich lineage of a building known for its extensive service to the community.
About Us
The Hudson Armory Project was developed by the Hudson Cultural Alliance to facilitate the creative collaboration between local organizations, businesses, artists, and performers with the goal of actively engaging a large and diverse regional audience.
Returning a Historic Hudson Building to it's Former Glory
Workshops
Unleash Your Creativity
Through strategic partnerships, the Hudson Armory Project will be able to offer a variety of workshops that cater to the interests of its members and other residents. Workshops may include podcasting, photography, music lessons, jewelry, and visual art studies.
Community Groups
Build Connections
The project will foster community connections among Hudson residents with shared interests by welcoming veterans' and historical groups and supporting local youth, senior citizen, and cultural organizations. This will help share the building's history and provide a meeting place.
Exhibitions & Performances
Experiences to Remember
The new space will provide artists across the region with dedicated studio space crucial for developing their work. By addressing the critical need for storage, local arts organizations can now prioritize their creative endeavors without the constraints of limited space.
Public Events
Celebrate Community
With an open floor plan and outdoor event areas, The Armory will host a variety of public events. Examples may include Farmer's markets, library book sales, and other gatherings that will take advantage of the unique space.
History of the Hudson Armory
Legacy of Service
From Civil War Origins to Modern Service
In 1887, Hudson resident Colonel Adelbert Mossman, an American Civil War Union veteran, formed the town's first unit of the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia (MVM): also known as the Hudson Light Brigade. Since then, National Guard units from Hudson have fought and served in the 1916 Pancho Villa Expedition, WWI, WWII, and the Iraq War.
Architectural Legacy
Historic Design and a Fenway Park Connection
Designed by Boston Architects James E. McLaughlin and John J. Mulcahy to house an entire military unit, the building is a stunning example of early 20th century architecture. The pair also designed armories in Hingham, Natick, and Newton, MA. Two years later, McLaughlin went on to design Fenway Park, America’s most beloved and oldest active ball park.
Beyond the Barracks
The Armory's Varied Historic Features & Facilities
When originally constructed the building included a two-lane bowling alley in the basement, showers, an 80-foot-long indoor rifle shooting range, a mess hall capable of seating 300 people, and a bar for non-commissioned officers (NCOs). Prior to 2019, The Armory was inactivated as a military facility and acquired by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Transformation
New Life & Redevelopment for The Hudson Armory
In 2019 the Hudson Cultural Alliance (HCA) spearheaded redevelopment to turn the Armory into an Arts and Cultural Center which was approved by the Hudson Select Board and Town Meeting in 2020. The Massachusetts Senate in June, 2021, passed an amendment to their 2022 budget allocating $230,000 for the Town of Hudson to purchase this historic building.
Committed to Community & Cultural Engagement
The Hudson Cultural Alliance was established with the understanding that personal growth and socio-economic stability derive from a community’s active engagement and investment in arts and culture.
Board of Directors
Leadership Team
Organizing Committee
Hudson Armory Project News & Events
Celebrate Hudson! Volunteers Needed
Join us in celebrating the heart of our community at Celebrate Hudson! From exciting events to delicious local flavors, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out—mark your calendars and be part of the fun!
Upcoming Events
Keep Up With Our Progress
Stay Connected with Our Latest Updates and Events!
Common Questions
How can I volunteer my time?
If you’re interested in helping support our efforts, please contact us
Where is the funding being used?
Funding has been used to purchase the building from the Commonwealth. All additional funding will be used for architectural study, bringing the building up to code, renovation, permitting, licensing and finally programming.
How is this project being funded?
The purchase of the building was funded by an earmark from Senator Jamie Eldridge. We have received a matching grant from the Mass Cultural Council. Additional funding is coming through fundraising efforts with Hudson’s Business Improvement District, local organizations, businesses, restaurants, and individuals.
Who is coordinating the Project?
The Armory’s purchasing, fundraising, renovation, and eventual operations are being run by the Hudson Cultural Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the town’s history while driving arts and culture forward.
Proud Partners of The Armory On The Assabet
With special grants from
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