Get Involved With The Essex Historical Society

The Essex Historical Society is a non-profit organization that is completely run by volunteers. There are many ways to get involved and to volunteer at the Essex Historical Society:

Archival Angels

A loyal group of volunteers meets every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 9:30-12:00. They work on the second floor of Hills Academy, where they man 4 computers that are used to record and keep track of all the items in our collection: objects, photographs, books, and archival material. Volunteers are needed to enter information, to accession items donated, to help with collection management, and to do genealogical research.

Docents

Do you love history and have a knack for telling a story well? Is teaching in your blood? This is a perfect opportunity to share your interest with others. Docents are trained to guide visitors through Pratt House and the Pratt Barn. The property is open June to September on Fridays through Sundays from 1-4. Consider becoming an Essex Historical Society Docent Ambassador.

Weavers

This group works on the antique loom set up in the loft of the Pratt House Barn on Wednesdays during the summer. They have turned out award-winning examples of woven textiles and are happy to train interested members to use the loom.

Hospitality

If you love people, this is an area that may interest you. This group makes arrangements for refreshments at monthly program meetings and serves as hosts at Essex Historical Society events.

Programs

This committee plans and arranges for the many stimulating and appropriate programs of interest to Society members. If you have ideas for speakers or subjects for future programs, here is your opportunity to make them happen.

Event Planning

If you enjoy planning occasional fund-raising events, there’s a place for you on this fun, sociable committee.

Exhibits

Bringing the message about the history of Essex is the province of the Exhibit Committee. Exhibits are arranged at Pratt House or Barn, Hills Academy or in public venues such as the Essex Library and Town Hall. Here is an opportunity to become familiar with the Society’s collection and express your creative talent by telling the stories visually.

Garden

The grounds of the Pratt House and Hills Academy need tender, loving care. The Herb Garden is a special project of the Garden Group. Surrounded by a picket fence on the side of the house, this early colonial type kitchen garden is intended to demonstrate the many uses of herbs, both practical and aesthetic, and to instruct the public in the pleasures of growing, even in a small space, something fresh, fragrant, and flavorful.

Buildings

Our two properties, Pratt House Museum on West Avenue and Hills Academy, the 1832 brick school house around the corner on Prospect Street, offer an opportunity to all who love and respect the craftsmanship of a bygone era. If you are handy with simple tools, come join this committee and be part of the team. The rewards are great - just knowing that your efforts will help to maintain them for future generations.

Publicity

Do you like to write? If so, you can play a vital role in the success of the Society. "If we plan it, they will come!" but only if they know about it! There are many activities that require getting the word out to the public and now so many new ways to achieve it. Perhaps you would like to help us reach our audience in this high-tech world!

If any of these volunteer activities are of interest to you, check them off on your membership renewal envelope, or call the Society at (860-767-0681) and leave your name, phone number, and the activity that appeals to you. A member will contact you and help you to "Get Involved!"