Upton History Museum
Our Vision
Our vision for the Upton History Museum is to evolve into a destination museum. A museum dedicated to representing the History of Upton and the Blackstone Valley. The museum will explore societal and cultural influences from the early 1600's until present day. We strive to inspire and engage visitors through thought-provoking exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach.
Community Engagement
We are currently expanding our special exhibitions, event and workshop calendar.
With the excitement caused by Ancestry.com and Genealogy research at an all time high, we are increasing access to our records, documents and data. We continue to facilitate in house education to better help new enthusiasts to the field.
Preservation
The Historical Society has a mission to record and protect every aspect of Upton's history. This includes advocating for the protection, preservation, and rehabilitation of buildings of historic significance. The Society supports the renovation and expanded use of the Knowlton-Risteen building and the rehab and repurposing of the former Unitarian/Holy Angels Church, both of which are located in the Upton Historic District.
The Historical Society
The Historical Society
The Upton Historical Society was formed in 1968 as a private non-profit organization incorporated under Massachusetts G.L. Ch 180. The Society is funded by member dues, private donations and fundraising initiatives. The mission of the Society is to acquire and preserve an extensive collection of historical records, artifacts, photographs, and mementos; largely donated by residents, past and present, who realize the importance of preserving Upton's heritage. Members have published a number of books including personal memoirs. The Society hosts the Annual Heritage Day Festival each fall with events on the common and other locations throughout town.
Our Historians
We are fortunate to have individuals, now and in the past, who have and continue to share their stories of Upton. The Board, led by President Tom Bair, and many community volunteers, represent a diverse group with a myriad of interests and expertise. Each has their own perspective, technical skills, and ability to illuminate visitors' understanding of the history of Upton.
2025-2026 Leadership
- Scott Garland - President
- Bill Taylor Vice - President/Treasurer
- Lisa Brochu - Secretary
- Joan Burrell Board Member
- Russell Wood Board Member
- Linda Gay Board Member
- At Large: Tom Bair, Lawrence Doucette, Ellen Arnold, Patrick Rosendale,
The Athenaeum
The Athenaeum is a significant collection of material that includes documents, maps, newspapers, a catalogue of historic buildings and homes, pamphlets, journals, books, photographs, genealogies, tools, clothing and textiles, awards, ribbons, medals, and scrapbooks. All items have been compiled, recorded and archived for current and future use. The entire collection has been donated or sourced by our past and current residents and local Historians.
A SUMMARY of the collection at the Historical Society includes records of Upton government departments, Commissions and Committees, civic and social organizations, churches, cemeteries, businesses, newspapers: all related to people and events in Upton and Massachusetts; the past is archived here.
You will find additional links for research material in
The Fay Room and Public Records & More
These are just a few initiatives now
Annual Membership
Research & Archives
Research & Archives
$25 Annual Family Fee for the General Fund. Offsets operational expenses and Historical Society unique programs.
Research & Archives
Research & Archives
Research & Archives
Artifacts and other aspects of the collection must be cared for appropriately. Costs of necessary preservation packaging is expense. Appreciate financial support for this effort.
Preservation
Research & Archives
Preservation
Current Historical Society Stabilization and Restoration initiatives include the Chestnut Street 10 x 10 Boot and Blacksmithing Shop to create a mini-museum.
Help the Society Preserve the History of Upton!
Volunteer!
- Be a museum docent, share your knowledge
- Record artifacts, photos and documents
- Manage archive preservation & storage
- Create exhibits & displays from the collection
- Tailor your experience to your interests
- Ask us about how you can "Help from Home"
- Senior Volunteers may be eligible for Upton's Property Tax Credit.