Grass Valley, CA — The North Star Historic Conservancy is pleased to announce that Ken Underwood has stepped into the role of Board President, guiding the organization as it advances accessibility improvements and expands community use.
Ken has been involved with North Star House for more than seven years, serving on multiple committees and contributing to the ongoing restoration effort. His long-standing involvement reflects a genuine care for making the house accessible to everyone and ensuring it remains open, usable, and welcoming to the broader community.
In 2025, Ken spearheaded efforts to develop a new ADA-accessible pathway at North Star House. The pathway represents an important step toward improving access across the property and allowing more people to safely and comfortably experience the space. While funding for the project is in place, the completion of the pathway depends on community involvement and shared effort.
The Conservancy is now seeking volunteers to assist with a hands-on, outdoor site improvement project focused on completing the ADA pathway. Some examples of the volunteer work include site preparation, installing pathway edging, laying and compacting base materials, placing bricks, and final leveling and cleanup.
This project reflects the Conservancy’s broader commitment to balancing historic preservation with inclusive, active community use. Community members interested in volunteering are encouraged to get involved and be part of this important step forward for North Star House. Learn more and sign up to volunteer at: www.NorthStarHouse.org/volunteer
Additional Background on Ken Underwood
Ken Underwood has a professional background in aerospace software engineering, including work that contributed to the development of the Hubble Space Telescope. His career reflects a strong foundation in systems thinking, precision, and long-term planning. This perspective informs his approach at North Star House, where he values collaboration, problem-solving, and sustainable use of the property. Ken is an active presence at North Star House, regularly participating in restoration efforts that take place every Tuesday and Thursday.
About North Star House
The North Star Historic Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and maintaining North Star House for the benefit of the community. Designed by architect Julia Morgan in connection with the historic North Star Mine, the house was built for mining engineer Arthur D. Foote and writer and illustrator Mary Hallock Foote. Together, their work and lives reflect an important intersection of architecture, industry, art, and progress in the region’s history.