By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Northborough – As the town prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2016, the Northborough Historical Society (NHS) is extending an invitation to residents and guests alike to join them in learning more about the fascinating people and events that make up Northborough’s past.
Each month the society hosts a program at its 52 Main St. location, usually on the fourth Friday of the month. These are not boring, staid affairs, but rather lively presentations featuring re-enactors, genealogists, novelists and others who are passionate about not only Northborough’s history but other state, national and even international events and how they affected the region. One example is the Friday Dec. 4, meeting, which will feature Professor Gary Hylander, who will recount the dramatic events surrounding the attacks on Pearl Harbor.
The society’s members come from all walks of life and represent all age groups – with its varied programs and extensive archives, there’s something that will interest everyone.
The first meeting of 2016 will feature students from Algonquin Regional High School presenting a research program using resources from the NHS museum. The evening will also include a performance by the ARHS Chorus under the direction of Katherine Waters.
On Friday, Feb. 26, Northborough resident Beth Finch McCarthy will discuss “Who is Buried in Northborough’s Brigham Street Old Burial Ground?” Highlights of the program will look at early colonial life in Northborough and include some “good gossip” about the early families, according to the society.
Other programs will feature a discussion of the early days of the town’s fire department, the history of Route 20, “the Lost Art of Etiquette,” and a lecture about John and Abigail Adams.
Each month the society publishes a monthly newsletter, “The Hourglass,” which features articles by Historian Robert Ellis and updates on the museum’s collection by Curator Ellen Racine, as well as other news.
The society’s archives have proved to be an important resource for students who are researching projects, or those looking to find a family link to the past. For questions about historical research and genealogy, contact Ellis at [email protected]. The society website also has a list of books that are available for purchase as well as ones that are available at the Northborough Free Library.
While there is no charge for monthly programs, school tours, or any special events, dues from membership fees help to fund those activities. In addition, members receive a monthly copy of “The Hourglass,” inclusion in Members-Only events; a member pin, a 10-percent discount on merchandise at the museum store; and a free copy of the book “To Celebrate our Town: The First 100 Years of the Northborough Historical Society.”
Membership categories are: single, $20; student/senior citizen (65 and over), $15; family, $45; and life, $250. A form can be downloaded off the website. Additional information can be obtained by emailing [email protected] or calling 508-393-6298.