The Ocean Alliance in Lincoln, Massachusetts, has announced that it will purchase and restore the Tarr and Wonson Paint Manufactory located at the entrance to the inner harbor of Gloucester, Massachusetts.

The $2 million purchase was made possible by a $3 million grant from the Annenberg Foundation. The $10 million effort to restore the landmark property for use as an oceanographic research center will get under way once additional funds have been raised.

Built in 1863, the complex has been vacant since 1980 but has continued to serve as both artistic inspiration and navigational guide. "Wallis Annenberg and her family's foundation saw the importance, beauty, and iconic nature of the paint factory from across the continent in Los Angeles," said Ocean Alliance president and CEO Roger Payne. "We want to return the factory to as close to its original appearance as possible, and while doing so use techniques that are as green as possible. We hope to demonstrate, through its restoration to a healthful and non-polluted state, what is possible for Gloucester's unique harbor and structures."