Trust receives $130,000 grant toward Wright Tavern restoration

The Wright Tavern Legacy Trust has received a $130,000 grant from the Ruby W. and LaVon P. Linn Foundation toward restoration of the Wright Tavern, the rendezvous point for the Minutemen on April 19, 1775. 

“We are thrilled and honored by this grant. It will go a long way to support our ability to make the building accessible to people of all abilities and create a unique, welcoming center for Acton,” said Legacy Trust Chair Tom Wilson. 

The Trust is working to restore and open the Wright Tavern to the public. The 276-year-old red building in Acton Center was where the British Redcoats established their headquarters before searching homes in Acton and engaging in the battle at the North Bridge.  

The vision for the Wright Tavern is to provide Acton with a center for the exploration of democracy, including tours of the unique building. It will also include a refreshment center and hopefully a “tavern” where guests can enjoy snacks and liquid refreshments.  

Plans are to open in mid-2024 with as many improvements as possible, given funding and town approvals.  

The Trust received nearly $500,000 in grants from Acton’s Community Preservation Committee in 2021 and 2022, as well as contributions from the board and supportive individuals. Structural repairs are underway. Other major improvements are needed to preserve and prepare the building for its next chapter. Fundraising is ongoing.  

Ruby Linn established The Linn Foundation in 2001 to support charitable, scientific, educational and religious organizations. Linn had a distinguished military career starting in 1943. As a professional dietitian, she promoted better nutritional policies at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Brooke General Hospital at Fort Sam Houston in Texas.