Published in the September 14, 2015 edition.
WAKEFIELD — The Wakefield Historical Society, founded in 1890, this month begins its 126th season of programs and events.
The season begins with a riot of color on September 26th with “Wakefield Heritage Day.” The Society will hold a fundraising fall flower and pumpkin sale; all sales of mums and pumpkins will benefit the preservation of the Museum at the West Ward School.
In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, the grounds of the Wakefield History Museum (West Ward School, 39 Prospect Street) will be the scene of Civil War events from 9:00 to 4:00, with a display of Civil War-era food and other exhibits. The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, dressed in historic G.A.R. costume, will be on hand to answer questions about their work in preserving the memory of Civil War veterans.
In addition to the Civil War events, the Historical Society Museum will hold open hours from 10:00 to 3:00. The exhibit on view is “Wakefield Veterans Exhibit,” with special emphasis on Civil War Veterans. The exhibit also features the extraordinary collection of the family of Colonel Richard Connelly (World War I), touching mementos from the family of Private Henry Nacella (World War I) and a Japanese flag signed by members of the Americal Division (World War II), which is on temporary loan to the Museum through the courtesy of the Dolbeare family.
The Historical Society will also be holding a White Elephant sale. Donations to the White Elephant table are being sought! Donations will be gratefully accepted during the week of September 20th. To make arrangements to donate items, call 781-246-3070 or email wakefieldhistory@gmail.com. (Note: computer monitors and TV’s cannot be accepted.)
Wakefield Heritage Day activities will also include the debut of a self-guided walking tour past historic properties at Lakeside, with the special treat of an Open House at the Col. James Hartshorne House at 41 Church Street from noon to 2:00 p.m., through the courtesy of the Col. James Hartshorne House Association.
The 126th season’s next event will be the opening of a special Wakefield Wicker Exhibit at the Museum debuting in November 16th and running through the winter and spring of 2016.
A full schedule of Heritage Day activities is available online at www.wakefieldhistory.org. For more information, see the Historical Society’s website or facebook page, email wakefieldhistory@gmail.com or call 781-246-3070.
