Freeman Annex & Hormel Research Center
Preserving the Past. Protecting the Future. Expanding Access.
The Academy Art Museum is proud to announce the construction of the Henny and James Freeman Annex and Hormel Research Center—a new, custom-built, state-of-the-art facility dedicated to caring for and sharing our growing collection of works on paper.
Located at 106–110 Talbot Lane, this groundbreaking project is made possible through the extraordinary generosity of Trustee Elizabeth Hormel, and honors the remarkable legacy of Henny and James Freeman, the earliest documented free Black landowning family in Easton, Maryland.
This new annex marks a pivotal moment in the Museum’s history—ensuring our collection can grow and is not only preserved for future generations but made more accessible to scholars, students, and the community through a dedicated research space.
Why This Project Matters
“The Academy Art Museum is a place where creativity meets community. The new Freeman annex and Hormel Research Center will enable the museum to be more ambitious with its collection while preserving history and honoring the first known freed family to settle in the Hill community of downtown Easton. This project both embraces our past and inspires our future.” – Diz Hormel
Our collection of primarily works on paper—drawings, prints, and photographs—represents one of the most delicate categories of art objects. These pieces are incredibly sensitive to light and can only be displayed for six months at a time. This facility will transform the way we can collect new artwork of various mediums as well as care for our current collection—and how our community connects with it.
For the first time, the Freeman Annex and Hormel Research Center will provide:
- Climate-controlled expansive space for current and future collection.
- A research center where scholars and students can study the collection by appointment.
- Dedicated space for archival work, conservation, and curatorial planning.
- Opportunities for community access through public programs, artist talks, and small-group viewings.
Honoring History
The new facility sits on land rich with local history. Originally owned by Henny and James Freeman, the site connects directly to Easton’s earliest African American story.
In partnership with The Ottery Group, a Maryland-based firm specializing iin archaeology and preservation, the Museum conducted several excavations that uncovered over 6,000 artifacts—including pottery, glass bottles, a sewing machine, perfume bottle, iron nails, children’s toys, and personal items such as buttons, jewelry, and a hair comb. Many date to the 18th and 19th centuries, during the Freeman family’s ownership.
The Museum plans to feature select artifacts in a display, linking the property’s layered past with the Museum’s future.
Designing for the Future
The new annex is being designed by GRT Architects (Brooklyn, NY) in collaboration with local architect and preservationist John Hutchison and is being constructed by Emory Hill with oversight from Matt Whalen. Together, they’ve envisioned a plan that reflects both innovation and respect for the site’s history.
The complex will include two structures framing a courtyard—creating a quiet, contemplative environment that bridges art, history, and research.
“Much of our permanent art collection has never been on public display,” says Charlotte Potter Kasic, Director of the Academy Art Museum.
“This project gives us the ability to conserve and share these important works responsibly, while also creating a space for research and deeper connection with our community.”
Project Timeline
- Groundbreaking: Fall 2025
- Construction: 2025–2026
Community and Support
This project is made possible through the vision and dedication of many—including the Talbot Lane Committee:
Donna Alpi, Diz Hormel, Nanny Trippe, Chris Walsh, Mary Ann Schindler, and Jill Meyerhoff.
Their commitment to art, history, and education has shaped a project that will serve generations to come.
Stay Connected
Sign up for project updates and event announcements as we move toward opening the Freeman Annex and Hormel Research Center in 2026.
About the Academy Art Museum
Founded in 1958, the Academy Art Museum is the Eastern Shore’s leading cultural institution, accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. With five working studios, a 24,000-square-foot facility, and a growing collection spanning modern and contemporary art, AAM is dedicated to making art accessible to everyone.