Our Mission

The mission of the Colerain Center for Education, Preservation and the Arts is to preserve and maintain the historic Colerain Forges Mansion and associated historic and environmental resources on the estate; to provide educational opportunities and experiences about these historic and environmental resources to schools, researchers and the community; and to revive the tradition of supporting and promoting the arts at the Mansion through sponsoring artists and performances. 

The preservation of the  property has several goals. First is to preserve the historic Colerain Forges Mansion. The mansion was listed by the National Park Service on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 as one of the few remaining ironmasters mansions that "retains its integrity of location, design, setting, materials, feeling and association", representing an important period in the Spruce Creek Valley. The second goal is the preservation of the setting for the mansion—the historic gardens, some dating back to 19th century. And finally, to preserve the watershed of Warriors Mark Run, as well as the surrounding woodland.

We are working with local educators  to develop a curriculum focused on local history and conservation. Students can explore creekside ecosystems, identify native and invasive species, or learn about restoring historic gardens, as well as about life in the 19th century. Please contact us if you are a teacher or interested in volunteering on a gardening day. 

 In the mid 1800s, the mansion was renowned as a place for music, theatre and the arts in general. The Colerain Center is dedicated to reviving  this tradition. We support new and emerging artists, musicians, writers and filmmakers through hosting events, sponsorships, and our artist-in-residence program. The mansion has also served as a film location for several productions by local filmmakers.