Smyth Trust Grant

Smyth Trust Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Marion C. Smyth Trust
Last Updated: November 06, 2025

Summary

The Smyth Trust, established in 1949 by Marion C. Smyth in memory of her husband, Frederick Smyth, supports cultural enrichment and educational opportunities in music for Greater Manchester youth. Offering scholarships to students from local high schools and grants to music organizations, the Trust aims to foster musical talent and appreciation. It ensures that deserving candidates, regardless of financial circumstances, can pursue their passion in music, reflecting the legacy of community service and infrastructure development initiated by Frederick Smyth.

Overview

Frederick Smyth’s History Marion C. Smyth founded the Smyth Trust in 1949 in memory of her husband Frederick Smyth, former governor of the State of New Hampshire from 1865 to 1867. In addition, Mr. Smyth was a four term Mayor of the City of Manchester from 1852 to 1854 and again from 1863 to 1864. Mayor Smyth was instrumental in the planning of Manchester's municipal infrastructure. Many of the decisions he made as mayor are still with us today including building the city's first highways, providing the city's first water and sewer systems, building the city's first sidewalks, lighting our streets and his idea to plant trees along our streets to provide shade and maintaining the natural beauty of our city. Purpose Mrs. Smyth stated in her will: " This institute is established not only for the cultural benefit of the citizens of Manchester and the State of New Hampshire, but also for the purpose of giving aid and encouragement to the deserving youth of Manchester and adjacent towns who lack adequate financial means of increasing their knowledge in the field of music". Although it was her original intent that an institute of music be established physically at her Manchester home, known as the "Willows", through the years and with subsequent court approval, the Trustees decided not to build an actual institute but rather to commit the Trust resources toward the financial support of her intended beneficiaries. The Smyth Trust provides scholarships for Greater Manchester students pursuing college degrees in music and annual grants for New Hampshire music education and performing organizations.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Greater Manchester residents residing in Manchester, Bedford, Hooksett, Goffstown, Merrimack, Amherst, Derry, Londonderry, Auburn, Candia, Litchfield or other nearby communities who are attending a Manchester area High School.Must show a financial need for the scholarship.Must maintain a satisfactory grade average level.On occasion, special exceptions have been made for students that do not fit the traditional guidelines but are otherwise worthy.Scholarships are for Undergraduate students only.Any New Hampshire organization established for the musical education, enrichment and enjoyment of the citizens of the State of New Hampshire.

Ineligibility

Late and/or incomplete applications will not be considered.