House Museum Manager Welcomed

Lunney House Museum Manager Welcomed

In the library of the Lunney House Museum, Seneca City Councilman, Dana Moore, welcomed Dr. John Martin as The Lunney House’s new House Museum Manager.

In this stewardship role, Dr. Martin will direct and coordinate the museum’s daily operations, focus on the integrity of the museum’s current collection, and will work toward creating an environment that stimualtes community interest and involvement.

Dr. Martin has graciously agreed to volunteer his time and expertise to the museum. Dr. Martin is a native of Indiana, but has resided in Seneca for the last ten years. He has a PhD in History from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, and completed post-doctoral work at  Le Sorbonne in Paris. Dr. Martin  retired from a long and successful career in  academia, where he became well versed in hisotry, historic properties, and fundraising.

His ongoing interest and involvement in restoration projects is rooted in his ancestor’s participation in the founding of Jamesotown in 1607, and the New Harmony Movement in Indiana in 1825.

A Restoration Project – The New South

“Renewal & Continuance”

The City of Seneca proudly announces A Restoration Project – The New South – “Renewal & Continuance” at the Lunney House Museum.

The Lunney House served as the private residence of Dr. William J. & Mrs. Lilian Mason Lunney from its construction in 1909 until Mrs. Lunney’s death in 1969. The house is an eclectic example of an American Queen-Anne style bungalow by prominent Charlotte Architect, Charles C. Hook, and is one of a handful of remaining examples of Hook’s unique residential designs. The home’s interior provides a detailed example of period Arts & Crafts style.

The goal of the current restoration project is to return the house back to an early twentieth century theme, reflecting the illustrious life journeys of Dr & Mrs. Lunney.

The Restoration Project will be divided into several phases over the next five years, with Phase I currently focusing on the restoration of the Dining Room, Living Room, and front exterior, including the front porch.