Nonprofit Aims to Transform Historic Town Hall into Cultural Hub

COHASSET — A newly formed nonprofit organization in Cohasset is taking bold steps to breathe new life into one of the town’s most treasured landmarks. Officially incorporated as The Hall on Highland, Inc., the group has announced plans to reimagine the original 1857 town hall into a dynamic community space for arts, culture, education, and events.

Driven by a mission to preserve the building’s historic character while adapting it for modern community use, The Hall on Highland received its 501(c)(3) designation earlier this year. The move will allow the group to pursue grants, donations, and long-term planning opportunities, including the possibility of leasing the space from the town.

“The Hall on Highland is the path to solving the lingering town hall challenge,” said Meg Wheeler, the group’s treasurer. “This milestone opens doors to funding and marks an exciting step toward creating something beautiful for the town.”

With a growing network of local collaborators—including the Cohasset Historical Society and the Cohasset Dramatic Club—the organization envisions a future where the historic building serves as a cornerstone for connection and creativity in the heart of town. While ownership of the building will remain with the town, the revitalization effort is expected to be a multi-year, multi-phase process.

Glenn Pratt, president of The Hall on Highland, emphasized the importance of the space as a gathering place for all.

“Our town needs a place where we can congregate, learn, and celebrate,” Pratt said. “We see this as a space for performing arts, recreation, education, meetings, and much more. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to preserve a beloved building and fulfill an evolving community need.”

If granted a lease, the nonprofit plans to modernize the building while maintaining its historic integrity. This includes building out flexible, safe spaces tailored to a wide range of programming needs. Long-term plans involve securing sustainable funding and developing programming that ensures the hall serves future generations.

The organization encourages community members to follow its progress and get involved as plans unfold.

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