As communities across the nation prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Mendon Historical Society is reminding residents that America's story often starts right here at home.  

A digital slideshow by the Mendon Historical Society Museum offers residents a visual journey through the town's rich past, showcasing photographs, artifacts, documents, and exhibits that help tell the story of one of Massachusetts' oldest communities.

The nearly 10-minute presentation highlights the many treasures housed at the Mendon Historical Society Museum on Hastings Street, where volunteers work to preserve local history for future generations. The slideshow offers a nostalgic look back in time.  

Items featured include furniture; textiles; clothing, shoes and boots, hats, handbags, hand fans; jewelry; household items, china and stoneware, butter churn and stamp; salt box; crafting and sewing items including samplers; stationery and books; school supplies (including an abacus), sports uniforms, class pins and rings; business items including Lowell’s Dairy, Miscoe, and a ‘Mendon Bank’ $5 bill); bootmaking industry tools; photographs and albums (one from 1850), camera, stereographs; military uniforms, equipment, regalia; old town documents; and much more. 

Founded in 1896, the Mendon Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the town's historical records, buildings, photographs, and artifacts. The museum is located at 15 Hastings Street and serves as a repository for generations of local history, providing residents and visitors with a glimpse into the community's evolution from its earliest days through the modern era.

The museum is open for tours every Tuesday from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. and the 4th Sunday of each month from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments can also be made by emailing [email protected]. 

The video was produced by the Blackstone Valley Art Association and can be found at https://bit.ly/MendonHistoricalSocietyMuseumSlideshow.