04/28/2026
Save the date! May 9, 2026. Our Old House: Uncovering the Past is a project that explores the histories of thirteen historic homes located within Plainfield’s Historic District. Together, these houses offer a glimpse into everyday life in Plainfield from the late eighteenth century to the present day. By examining the buildings themselves, along with deeds, maps, photographs, and other historical records, the project reveals how architecture, ownership, and community history intertwine to tell the larger story of the town. The Plainfield Historical Society will present this project in a special museum-like exhibition at the Shaw Memorial Library. The exhibition will feature posters, photographs, slideshows, historic artifacts, and a virtual tour highlighting the homes and the stories uncovered through research. The exhibit will run from Saturday, May 9 until Saturday, June 27. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 9 from 10:00 til 11:30. At 10:30 Lori Austin will introduce the project and discuss how to research the history of an old house, sharing the methods and sources she used to uncover the stories of the homes featured in the exhibition. In early June, the Historical Society will host a gathering bringing together many of the homeowners featured in this project to share and discuss the stories of their historic houses. In addition, Lori will lead a Saturday morning demonstration offering practical guidance for those
interested in beginning research on their own old homes.
This project is partially funded by the Plainfield Cultural Council and the Plainfield Historical Society. A big thanks to the students at the Smith Vocational Graphics Design Department for
the printing and design layout for this project.
