May 14, 2025
Shawmut completed a major renovation at the historic headquarters of American Ancestors—formally known as the New England Historic Genealogical Society—including the newly opened Family Heritage Experience, a cultural destination that celebrates family history, identity, and heritage. The space features a permanent exhibit of the family tree of renowned Harvard historian Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr., host of PBS’s Finding Your Roots.
Shawmut served as the construction manager for the multi-phase project and partnered with Schwartz/Silver Architects to transform and unify two adjacent buildings—renovating the organization’s existing headquarters at 99–101 Newbury Street and fully reconstructing the vacant 19th-century structure at 97 Newbury Street. The newly integrated space now features museum-quality installations, digital storytelling, and archival displays, all delivered with careful attention to preserving the historic character of the site.
“We’re proud to have partnered with American Ancestors to bring their vision to life and transform two historic buildings along one of Boston’s most active corridors into a new cultural destination,” said Kevin Sullivan, executive vice president of Shawmut’s New England region. “This project demanded thoughtful coordination, a deep respect for the site’s history, and the seamless integration of modern systems—all of which reflect the collaborative spirit and technical rigor our teams bring to complex, urban projects.”
The newly reconstructed building at 97 Newbury Street sits directly adjacent to the existing headquarters of the 180-year-old national nonprofit. A carefully phased construction approach allowed Shawmut to maintain American Ancestors’ ongoing operations throughout the project. Working within one of Boston’s most constrained and high-traffic pedestrian corridors, the team implemented creative logistics and a highly coordinated schedule to minimize disruption to the surrounding neighborhood.
Because of the site’s tight footprint and the close proximity of neighboring structures, demolition of the original wood-frame and masonry building was completed entirely by hand. The replacement structure features a reinforced concrete and steel frame, seamlessly integrated with the preserved façade and surrounding historic fabric. The team collaborated closely with American Ancestors’ curatorial, archival, and exhibition experts to meet preservation standards while incorporating cutting-edge systems and technology.
Shawmut also executed a range of upgrades to modernize the facilities while honoring the site’s historic character. Both buildings were brought up to current code compliance, including ADA accessibility through new elevators and stair connections, as well as sustainability improvements such as energy-efficient lighting and expansive glass paneling to introduce natural light throughout.
Additional enhancements included the relocation and expansion of the retail shop, construction of a new café and gathering spaces, and upgraded administrative offices.
The new building was formally dedicated to Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. and philanthropist Thomas Bailey Hagen. Dr. Gates helped unveil his illustrated family tree at the grand opening celebration, which was attended by Massachusetts Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, Boston officials, and project supporters.
