Endicott, NY – To help preserve Endicott’s vast and rich history, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo joined the Old Village of Union Historical Society Monday to announce details of a $100 thousand Assembly capital grant. Funding will be used as part of an ongoing expansion at the Endicott History & Heritage Center on Washington Avenue.

“Our area has a tradition of innovation out of which two of the most notable companies in the history of our country were born: Endicott-Johnson and IBM,” said Assemblywoman Lupardo. “This museum is in the heart of the neighborhood that once called these industry giants home. The expansion here will help preserve and honor their legacies and keep the spirit of innovation alive.”

The Endicott History & Heritage Center opened in 2013 and houses artifacts from both E-J and IBM. The planned expansion includes work on the second floor of the building where E-J artifacts will be on display. A new historical library and renovated meeting and conference space will also be added.

“Nearly everyone in our community has a story that connects them to either Endicott-Johnson or IBM,” said Ted Warner, Vice President of the Old Union Village Historical Society. “This center allows them to travel back in time to experience those stories once again and the expansion upstairs allows us to share them with more people than ever before.”

New doors, energy efficient lighting, security systems, and audiovisual equipment are all being funded through the Assembly capital grant. Work is expected to be completed by Spring 2018. While upgrades are being added, the museum and event hall will continue to be open to the public; museum hours are 10:00 – 2:00 every Saturday.