2007 PHS Annual Report

This past year the society has continued to work with the members of the community by preserving and presenting the history of Plaistow. Our museum was open Old Home Day, Wednesday evenings in the summer, and many Sunday afternoons. We have also been available by appointment to give teaching sessions and tours of the museum. For instance, the expository writing class from Timberlane Regional High School had made us a visit last winter to look over photographs we have on the history of their school.

We have had two programs this past fall: Bob Carolan made a slide show presentation about the two Plaistows he visited, in England, and Barney Gallagher presented a lecture on the boundary of Plaistow and Haverhill and how the two towns interrelate.

We are in the ongoing process of cataloging and accessioning objects and documents that are related to Plaistow's past. Old photographs also are being identified, scanned into computer storage, and indexed for easy retrieval. What happens today is tomorrow's history. Any artifacts, papers, and photos that pertain to Plaistow are welcome donations to the society.

Our website is continuously being updated with Plaistow historical antidotes and other information. We are receiving many inquiries particularly from those who are researching genealogy and the history of their houses. All are welcome to visit us at www.PlaistowHistorical.org.

Our other happenings this past year is that we have purchased exclusive rights to the montage of significant landmarks of Plaistow, placed it on T-shirts, and sold them at Old Home Day. Another is that we are also pleased to report that the Mason and Hamlin Pump Organ has been restored to working condition. Additionally, we have received a donation of several showcases which will enable us to put together new displays.

We are pleased to announce that we have elected the following officers in November: Robert Carolan, President; Mike Smith, Vice President; Catherine O'Brien, Recording Secretary; Nancy Marston, Corresponding Secretary; Eleanor Peabody, Treasurer; Jeanne Smith and Mildred Ilsley, Members at Large.

We always welcome new members and volunteers. Our meetings are held every third Tuesday from March to November at 7:00 in the evening. The public of all ages are welcome to attend as guests, see what we are all about, and meet us. We will be open on Old Home Day and every Wednesday evening during this summer. Again, we are also available by appointment. We can be reached via email, , or by phone: 382-1675.

Respectfully Submitted,
Catherine O'Brien
Secretary