Our Story - Manchester Historical Society (original) (raw)

Experience, Credibility, Results

In the summer of 1897, Hermione Hitchcock Canfield, Julia Frances Hawley, and Wilhelmina Douglas Hawley discussed forming the Manchester Historical Society. By October officers were appointed, a meeting was held, and a constitution decided upon.

The first officers were President E. J. Hawley, First Vice-President Julia F. Hawley, Second Vice-President Anna J. Purdy, Corresponding Secretary Hermione H. Canfield, Recording Secretary Wilhelmina D. Hawley, and Treasurer Theodore Swift.

Incorporation in the State of Vermont followed in 1898 with the stated purpose “of collecting and conserving information and documents relating to matters of historic interest; locating and marking, and if deemed advisable, acquiring title to places where historic events have occurred and placing thereon monuments or other memorials, and of receiving and holding in trust money or other property appropriate to the purpose of the Society; and providing a genealogy of the early settlers, and a convenient and reliable source of information concerning the town.”

In 2022-2023 the Manchester Historical Society celebrated its 125th anniversary. During the last century, MHS has adapted to the changing landscape of communications and community involvement while continuing to fulfill its original mission.

In addition to the three books on local history, MHS has a robust social media presence with thousands of followers on Facebook and Instagram. It also launched a walking tour of Manchester available through the TravelStorys app that provides an immersive experience using photos and audio. Programs are given throughout the year, many in collaboration with Green Mountain Academy for Lifelong Learning. Since 2014, our home for the collection in the Manchester Community Library allows MHS to remain a “convenient and reliable source of information concerning the town.”

2023-2024 Board of Directors

OFFICERS

Frederica Templeton, President
Kim Rizio, Vice President
Andrew Shaw, Secretary
Robyn Harrington, Treasurer

DIRECTORS

Bill Badger
Courtney Callo
Sarah Cavanagh
Irene Cole
Mike diMonda
Laura Heinel
Meg Kenny
Peter Kinder
Sarah McClintock
Melissa Oliva
Michael Powers

CURATOR

The mission of the Manchester Historical Society is to collect, preserve, interpret and present the story of Manchester, Vermont, through the research collection, exhibitions, programs, and publications.

Site Map

Contact

LOCATION

138 Cemetery Ave | Manchester Center, VT 05255

MAILING

PO Box 363 | Manchester, VT 05254

Contact

LOCATION

138 Cemetery Ave
Manchester Center, VT 05255

MAILING

PO Box 363
Manchester, VT 05254