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MCC Is Comitted to Preserving Lowell's Past!

At MCC, we are committed to the community of Greater Lowell, including the preservation of historic buildings within the city.


Spearheaded by MCC’s third President Carole Cowan, we purchased, renovated and redefined three important properties. 

  1. John Nesmith House
  2. Federal Building
  3. Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center

The rehabilitated buildings are some of the most prominent in the city of Lowell. In addition to classroom and MCC event spaces, they are now open for rental by the community. 

The historic buildings offer the perfect settings for:

  • Corporate meetings, conferences and retreats
  • Dinner parties and cocktail receptions
  • Film festivals and screenings
  • Concerts, performances, holiday parties and garden receptions
  • Baby and wedding showers
  • Rehearsal parties and small weddings

John Nesmith House

John Nesmith House
229 Andover Street
Lowell, Mass.

Built in 1843 for John and Harriet Nesmith, the 22-room Greek Revival/Regency mansion was a center for the family’s social and cultural affairs until 1939. Today, Nesmith House is owned by the Middlesex Community College Foundation, featuring period furnishings and a full professional kitchen.

Schedule an event at the Nesmith House.

Federal Building

Federal Building
50 Kearney Square
Lowell, Mass.

Located across from MCC's Cowan Center, the Federal Building houses the Lowell campus library, classrooms, a stunning visual arts room and the Community Assembly Room.

To schedule an event at the Federal Building, contact:
Jennyfer Molina-Cruz
978-656-3361

Academic Arts Center

Academic Arts Center
240 Central Street
Lowell, Mass.

In 2018, we renovated the Academic Arts Center (AAC), a multi-purpose facility in the heart of Lowell for nearly 150 years. The AAC houses our performing arts programs, including theater, dance and music. The centerpiece of the historic, totally renovated building is a proscenium theater showcasing theatrical programs and performances.

Schedule an event at the AAC.