WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senators Bob Casey and Arlen Specter announced today that the Department of the Interior will award Cheyney University $300,000 in federal funding for historical preservation. Federal funding has been allocated through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
“I am pleased recovery funding has been awarded to Cheyney University for preservation of a vital piece of history,” said Senator Casey. “By maintaining historical structures such as Melrose Cottage, we are able to glimpse into the past, and keep history alive for future generations to enjoy.”
“It’s great to see the stimulus funds at work at Cheyney University,” Senator Specter said. “This funding will help our nation’s oldest institution of higher learning for African Americans preserve an important part of our nation’s rich history.”
The funding is a portion of the more than $14.25 million allotted to 20 Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the country to repair and preserve campus buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Cheyney University will use its funds to restore Melrose Cottage, the oldest building on campus. It was the original Cheyney farmhouse and at one time was the home of the University president.
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