East Hills landmark celebrates 150th anniversary, launches fundraiser to complete renovations

NonprofitArt

Sep 17

Written By Staff

Hermitage at Diamond, a nonprofit organization located in a 150-year-old former church in Grand Rapids’ East Hills neighborhood, has created a fundraiser in celebration of the building’s 150th anniversary to raise $150,000 to complete the exterior restoration. The fundraiser specifically focuses on the completion and installation of the building’s final two stained glass rose (circular) windows. The windows represent both the historic craftsmanship of the original structure and prepare the building for its next chapter as a hub for art and community.

The goal is to raise funds in time to complete installation before wintry weather hits. It will also open the door to a larger campaign to raise funds for upcoming interior renovations, including HVAC, plumbing and universal accessibility improvements.

To celebrate, Hermitage at Diamond will also serve as a venue and Uptown hub for ArtPrize, running Sept. 18 through Oct. 4.

The featured exhibit, curated by VEIL Collective, is titled “Somewhere: At Hermitage and Diamond” and will showcase portraiture, sculpture, mixed media, textiles, experimental animation, and live performances. The event kicks off with a free celebration at the venue on Sept. 18, 5 to 9 p.m.

“This historic structure has been a landmark in the East Hills neighborhood for 150 years,” said Carol Moore, local preservationist and Founder of Hermitage at Diamond. “Preservation, sustainability, accessibility – these are all critical facets of any thriving city. We invite the community to join us in reimagining this special space as a center for continued collaboration, creativity, and connection.”

Since 1875, the building has stood as a neighborhood icon, serving generations of Grand Rapidians. Originally home to Third Reformed Church, the structure has also been home to Church of God in Christ and Iglesia Resurreccion Y Vida and, since 2017, as a hub for the arts and community.

Two new rose windows, each measuring 10.5 feet in diameter, will soon be installed on the east and west peaks of the building, completing the set that began with the restored south side rose window already in place. Grand River Builders constructed the heavy wooden frames that will hold the windows, and Kolenda Art Glass restored the stained glass.

“Stained glass has always been a keystone of the building’s architecture,” said Moore. “With their beauty and intricate design, the windows serve as both art and history, reminding us of past craftsmanship and symbols of light, resilience, and renewal.”

Founded in 2017, Hermitage at Diamond is a nonprofit dedicated to restoring the former Third Reformed Church. The building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is being reimagined as a vibrant venue for the arts, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations. The project builds on Moore’s earlier success leading the restoration of other East Hills properties, including Wealthy Theatre. To learn more, visit hermitage-at-diamond.org/get-involved.

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