Middletown Historical Society Marks 100th Anniversary
A Century of Preserving History: Middletown Historical Society Celebrates 100th Anniversary
A volunteer-run nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the Middletown area’s history for future generations celebrated its 100th anniversary during an annual meeting on Oct. 14.
At the meeting, Middletown Historical Society President Gerald Kleiner thanked members for their support and reiterated the mission statement that had guided the organization in the past century.
In addition to the core task of preserving historic artifacts and records and making them available to the public, the nonprofit also seeks to strengthen the patriotic sense in the local community, he said.
Jeff Berkman, the society’s vice president, told The Epoch Times that, as a Middletown native, he was proud to be involved in efforts to commemorate the past to inform the future.
“I believe history is the heart and soul of a community,” he said.
City Councilman Andrew Green concurred. Mr. Green serves on the nonprofit board and became a member of the Historical Society about three years ago on the recommendation of fellow Councilman Mr. Kleiner.
“They say history repeats itself,” Mr. Green told The Epoch Times. “But if we learn from the good and the bad in history, then hopefully, we will only repeat the good.”
The primary function of the Historical Society is carried out through its museum at 25 East Avenue in the City of Middletown, according to longtime city historian Peter Laskaris.
The house was built in 1887 and donated to the organization in 1940 by the Van Duzer family.
Among historical documents preserved at the museum, Middletown High School yearbooks are the most popular for visitors, who can view a physical collection that goes back as early as 1921.
The city directory collection is also popular, he said, which covers the years between 1857 and 1974.
“If you want to find out who was making soda or what kind of businesses were on North Street in a particular year, this is where you’d find the answers,” he told The Epoch Times.
Museum visitors range from local history buffs to students, researchers, and out-of-state travelers who stop by for a few hours to trace family roots.
Dan Burrows, a society volunteer recently assigned to straighten out museum archives, told The Epoch Times that he judged the value of documents from the perspectives of visitors.
“I ask myself this one question, ‘Will people want to come here to look at it?’” he said.
The museum is open to the public every Wednesday between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
The City of Middletown was formed in 1888, about 40 years after the arrival of the Erie Railroad, which transformed the previously obscure hamlet into a village and, subsequently, a thriving industrial city.
North Street was developed as a central downtown strip full of businesses, big and small.
However, the decline of the railroad industry, with the Erie Railroad ceasing services through Middletown four decades ago, initiated an economic downturn for the city.
Simultaneously, the growth of highways and suburban strip malls drew businesses away from the once-prosperous downtown, exacerbating the decline.
In the past 10 years or so, with the arrival of Heritage Trail and the $10 million state revitalization grant as two main catalysts, downtown Middletown has experienced an economic revival.
How does the Middletown Historical Society support local schools in their history classes and projects?
Oes back to the early 1900s. The museum also houses artifacts from the city’s industrial history, including tools and machinery from local factories, as well as photographs, maps, and other historical items.
In addition to maintaining the museum, the Historical Society also organizes various events and programs throughout the year. These include lectures, guided tours, and exhibits that explore different aspects of Middletown’s history. The society also partners with local schools to provide educational resources and support for history classes and projects.
Over the past century, the Middletown Historical Society has faced numerous challenges in its mission of preserving history. Funding has always been a concern, with the organization relying heavily on donations and grants to sustain its operations. The maintenance and preservation of the museum and its collections require significant resources and expertise.
However, the dedication and commitment of the society’s volunteers have ensured the organization’s longevity and success. Countless hours have been spent researching, cataloging, and preserving historical artifacts, making them accessible to the public and future generations.
As the society celebrates its 100th anniversary, it reflects on the progress it has made in fulfilling its mission and looks forward to the future. Through ongoing efforts to expand its collection, engage with the community, and enhance its educational programs, the Historical Society aims to continue preserving Middletown’s rich history and inspiring a sense of pride and connection among its residents.
The 100th anniversary celebration also serves as a reminder of the importance of history in shaping the present and future. By learning from the past, we can make informed decisions and build a better future. The Middletown Historical Society’s dedication to preserving history for the benefit of future generations is a testament to the enduring value of our collective heritage.
As the Middletown community gathers to celebrate this milestone and reflect on the society’s accomplishments, it is a time to express gratitude to all those who have contributed to the preservation of Middletown’s history. Whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply showing an interest in local history, each individual plays a vital role in ensuring that our shared past remains alive and relevant.
As the Middletown Historical Society looks ahead to the next century, it remains committed to its mission of preserving history and promoting a sense of pride and connection in the local community. It invites all residents and visitors to join in this important endeavor and help shape the future of Middletown’s history.
Together, we can ensure that the stories of the past continue to be told and that the legacy of Middletown lives on for generations to come.
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