RING IN THE 250TH OF AMERICA!
- Elizabeth Shannon
- Feb 2
- 4 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
JOIN THE SOCIETY AS WE HONOR OUR HISTORICAL PAST.
Happy New Year, Members and Visitors!
When was the last time you explored the rich tapestry of your local, State and U.S. history? If you haven't recently, there couldn't be a better time than the 250th anniversary of our great nation.
The Wolfeboro Historical Society is here to celebrate alongside you.
To help you follow along, the State of New Hampshire has created an educational website that includes a wonderful online calendar of events occurring across the state.
New Hampshire Secretary of State David M. Scanlan and State Archivist Ashley Miller host a ceremony honoring the 250th anniversary of New Hampshire as the nation's first state to adopt a constitution, declaring its independence from English rule. The event was held at the NH State Archives on January 5, 2026, where the original document, signed that day in 1776, is now stored among the state's historic public papers.
You will also notice that the Town of Wolfeboro will be featured in the State of New Hampshire Historical Societies Scavenger Hunt. Stay tuned for further details and a map to help you locate NH historical landmarks, both big and small.
Exhibits That Tell Our Story
One of the highlights of the Clark Museum is its diverse range of exhibits. Each exhibit is carefully curated to tell a story, providing context and insight into the lives of those who came before us.
Permanent Exhibits
Local Artifacts: This collection features items dating back to the early days of our community, including tools, clothing, and household items that illustrate daily life across different eras.
Historical Photographs and Research Library: A visual journey through time, this museum's resources showcase photographs that capture significant moments in our local history, from the town's founding to major events that have shaped its development.
Temporary Exhibits
This year, we will be partnering with a local educational non-profit, The Makers Mill, located at 23 Bay Street in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, to showcase a special exhibit that combines the fascinating world of organic antique textiles, such as antique quilts and clothing, and the longstanding tradition of clothing reuse. Many of these items are made from local resources such as Wolfeboro farms and factories. Ruby Grace-Bacon, owner of “Ruby’s Rags” and preservation specialist, will be offering a class at the Maker’s Mill in conjunction with the Wolfeboro Historical Society. “The Makers Mill” offers “10,000 sq ft of work spaces for digital design and fabrication, fine arts, fiber arts, metalsmithing and jewelry, leather working, metalworking a machine shop, mixed media, stained glass, and a woodshop” (Makers Mill, 2026 web. ) The winner of Makers Mill “Upcycled Fashion Show” with be displayed alongside our “Antique and Clothing Exhibit” in the Clark Museum's restored Barn during the month of July. We feel this is truly a wonderful way to showcase the Past, Present, and Future, and the importance of reusing items that contribute to the stewardship of the “Old Ways” and to the protection of our fragile ecological environment.
The Clark Museum is committed to education and offers a variety of programs designed to engage visitors of all ages. These programs include:
Educational Programs and Events
Guided Tours
Guided tours are available for individuals and groups, providing an in-depth look at the museum's exhibits. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories and insights, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The Wolfeboro Historical Society hosts a special tour in June for 4th-grade students from Carpenter Elementary School. This much-loved tour culminates the students' History curriculum. Please contact us to arrange a private tour for your group, family, or organization.
Workshops and Lectures
The museum hosts a lively “Free Summer Lecture Series” on various historical topics, often featuring guest speakers who are experts in their fields. These lectures are made possible by grants from “NH Humanities to Go!” and the generosity of members of the Wolfeboro Historical Society. They provide opportunities for visitors to learn more about specific aspects of local, national, and natural history and engage in discussions.
Big News! Our First Lecture in the 2026 series will be held at the Wolfeboro Public Library on May 20th, where the Wolfeboro Historical Society will co-host “Red Coats and Rebels,” featuring Mary Adams of the “NH Humanities to Go!” and the “NH Historical Society”.
Mission and Vision
Engagement with History: The museum offers a unique chance to engage with history in a tangible way. Seeing artifacts and photographs can spark curiosity and inspire a deeper appreciation for the past.
Community Connection: The museum serves as a gathering place for the community, fostering connections among residents and encouraging dialogue about our shared history.
Support Local Culture: By visiting the museum, you are supporting local culture and heritage. Your admission fees help fund educational programs and preserve important artifacts for future generations.
Inclusivity: Our Restored Dairy Barn is handicap accessible, including ramps and restrooms. We also provide a spot to view a recorded video tour of the other buildings in our complex, so everyone is included and enjoys the museum. The Barn is a cool place to rest after a tour and read some of the educational literature we provide.
Our Location:
Find us behind the white picket fence!
The museum is conveniently located at:
233 S. Main Street in Wolfeboro, NH.
Hours: It is open for regular tours on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10 am-4 pm.
Saturday from 10 am-2 pm.
Parking is free in the lot behind the museum, accessible from Clark or East Clark Road.
Admission fees are modest, $4 per adult, and members and children under 12 are free. Special events may have separate pricing, so be sure to check the museum's website for the latest information. Our “Summer Lecture Series” is open to the public at no cost.
Active-Duty Military Members and their families receive free Admission as a thank-you for their service.
The Clark Museum is not just a building filled with old items; it is a vibrant space dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of our region. Established in 1925, the museum has grown to become a cornerstone of our community, offering a variety of exhibits, educational programs, and events that engage visitors of all ages. We hope to see you soon!
Best Regards!
Libby Shannon
President
Wolfeboro Historical Society
Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with us!
2026 will be a memorable year!
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