Category Archives: Press Releases

Andrew Noone brings to life a murder and scandal that shook New England and reverberated for decades to come. This meticulously researched, elegantly told tale transports you back to the time of the nation’s founding, and the volatile mix of cultural, economic and political forces that clashed during that critical era. It’s a story about love and money, power and privilege, crime and eventually the ultimate punishment. Bathsheba Spooner paints a picture of what life was really like back in the eighteenth century, during the transition from colonial life to independence, by focusing on the travails of a storied family, a wealthy couple, and a group of soldiers whose lives intersected.

The Grafton Historical Society would like to extend an invitation to join us for a Special Valentine Tea on Sunday, February 23rd. This free program will run from 2 – 4 PM. Our table will be set with linen tablecloths and fine china, highlighting our delicious homemade pastries. We always include gluten free and sugar free desserts, cheese and fruit. The room is abuzz with lively conversation in no time at all as our guests engage in friendly conversation with new friends and old. Our wonderful collection of valentines will be on display, including the first valentines to be produced in the USA, by Grafton resident Jotham Taft and his wife. Why would it be that someone would want to conceal their identity on such a beautiful product? Hear the story and see the original cards.

We have canceled the show for Sunday, February 9th since the snow offers some concerns for our guests. The Grafton Historical Society is hosting the Grafton Garden Club at 71 Main Street, South Grafton, MA, as they present floral arrangements to accompany the artwork of Grafton’s Carolyn Kinloch Winkler on Saturday, February 8th and Sunday, February 9th, 1 – 4 PM. Using her own nature photography, Carolyn’s talent is highlighted in each interpretive painting. Of course the talent doesn’t stop with her display, the talented members of Grafton’s Garden Club get to shine this weekend as well. Join us for this free program and capture a taste of spring.

When a business is into Fabric Art, we take notice, and for new ideas that originated in history the Society was a perfect place to visit. Alice Mask, owner of The Threaded Needle in North Grafton, did just that. We both agreed that together we could make an impact on history and Art and the board of Directors agreed. It is with this goal in mind, that a collaboration has begun. Alice has chosen one of the beaded handbags that previously belonged to the Usher family, of Bruce Street. It will be very exciting to see the process unfold and become available for sale.

Winter does not have to be boring this year, cute snowmen could greet you every day. This two day fabric art project will make a lovely table runner for the winter months. The $15 fee will provide an opportunity to learn the basics, or advance the skills of hand quilting or embroidery for established sewers in a small group setting. The materials list will be provided or for an additional small fee will be ready for you on the first Sunday. Registration is required no later than November 9th by calling/texting 508-320-1173 or emailing graftonmahistory@gmail.com. This class is offered by Nancy Therrien.

Join us for a fun afternoon of friendly conversation as we share some English “Twining” tea and enjoy special treats, including gluten free and sugar free choices, along with fruit and cheese, served on fine china. Mark your calendar for October 4th as well as November 1st and bring a friend or meet new friends at the Grafton Historical Society tea and begin a new tradition of slowing down to enjoy life.

The Grafton Historical Society is hosting “How Grafton Farms Helped Grow the Community” on Sunday, September 29th at the Grafton Community Harvest Barn, 37-Wheeler Road, North Grafton, MA. This free program will look at stories of Grafton farmers and how they have played a huge part in building community for hundreds of years. The presentation will cover several farms whose statistics will astound you, including the Knowlton Farm, Houland’s Farm, and Town Line Dairy Farm, along with many others. We will look at the reasons for the decline in farming currently. Join us in learning about this agricultural industry that produces the crops that sustain us all.

September 6, 2024

Down through the years, Grafton has been home to a number of colorful characters. Each has contributed to the rich history that makes our town unique. Grafton Historical Society is creating a series of profiles to bring their stories to life. We invite you to take a journey back in time as we share these stories with you and preserve them for generations to come.

Don’t miss out on this special event held yearly on beautiful Grafton Common, Route 140 in Grafton MA, brought to you by the Grafton Historical Society. As you are browsing for those special items from some of New England’s best vendors, you can enjoy the music of the Kelly Clark Trio or stop by and check out an appraisal from Tom Tomaszek for only $5.00 per item. Free demonstrations of exquisite Nantucket Basketmaking by Joann Beller will be ongoing throughout the day. Food and non-acholic beverages will be available. An entrance fee of $5.00 helps our 501(c)3 society keep history alive for future generations.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, April 20th at 2 PM. You will want to join the Grafton Historical Society at 37 Wheeler Road, North Grafton, MA for this special presentation by one of our favorite performers, Judith Kalaora of History At Play. This new interactive show is sure to be of great interest and prove to be lots of fun.