The Kiah House was built in 1910 as the home of Dr. Calvin Kiah and his wife Virginia in Savannah's Cuyler Brownville neighborhood. Dr. Kiah was a professor of education at Savannah State University and his wife Virginia was a public school teacher, and they established and operated a museum at their home for decades. After their deaths, the home fell into disrepair and its future was threatened by probate, title, and funding issues. 

The Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF) acquired the property in 2022 in an effort to save and preserve this significant cultural resource. HSF has agreed to sell the property to a partnership comprised of the City of Savannah and the Galvan Foundation, who will acquire and renovate the property. Upon completion, the home will once again assume its prominent role as a museum and cultural resource for the community. The City's Cultural Resources Department and Municipal Archives Department will collaborate to provide inspired programs and exhibits at the restored museum. The total project cost is estimated at $1.2 million. The City would contribute $500,000 toward the project and that investment would be secured with an interest in the property. 

The Galvan Foundation is a non-profit corporation based in New York, whose mission is “to advance the common good by supporting strong advocates, vibrant communities, and cultural expressions that foster civic action.” The Galvan Foundation is already engaged with the City of Savannah to address affordable housing issues in the area and has committed $1 million in low-interest loans funding for homeowner improvements and $5 million in funding to build new or renovate existing properties. 

It is also requested that the City Manager be  authorized to negotiate and finalize a partnership agreement with the Galvan Foundation and to sign any associated partnership agreements and closing documents.

Approval