Townsend Historical Society

08/31/2026

We had a great event learning about indigenous land stewardship and helping out around Harbor Pond with the Indigenous Landscape Initiative and Conor Hawk Cubit, a biologist from the Odanak First Nation, and the Squannacook River Rail Trail.

08/28/2026

The Townsend Historical Society has a job opening for the new position of business manager.

08/10/2026

Want to learn, have fun, and help improve the beautiful shoreline around Harbor Pond all in one afternoon? Families and adults are invited to join us on Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026 from 1 - 4:30 PM at the Reed Homestead, 72 Main Street, Townsend, MA 01469.

Learn about native and invasive plants along our pond.

Hear about Native American land stewardship techniques, culture, and history.

Help us work to make Harbor Pond an even more beautiful place, followed by snacks for all!

To learn more or sign up (not required, but to help us plan for snacks), see:

https://indigenouslandscapeinitiative.org/upcoming-events/land-learning-and-stewardship-on-harbor-pond/

08/08/2026

Check out the continuing story of the Reed family: the third generation.

https://townsendhistoricalsociety.org/2026/08/08/the-reed-family-third-generation/

07/25/2026

Thanks to Freedom's Way National Heritage Area for this great article, and for their financial support of the Townsend Historical Society's 250th celebration of America's 250th birthday on June 20, 2026!

Spaulding Cooperage Preservation & Revitalization | Townsend, MA

At the edge of the Squannacook River in Townsend, the Spaulding Cooperage has stood at the heart of the town's industrial life since the 18th century. Today, thanks to the dedicated work of the Townsend Historical Society, this beloved landmark is getting the care it deserves.

Working with Massachusetts historical architecture firm The Preservation Collaborative, the Society refreshed the Cooperage's trim, clapboard, and paint, and made critical structural repairs to stabilize the building where it overhangs the river. The project balanced environmental conservation, historical preservation, community outreach, and support for local businesses in one effort.

The Cooperage now houses a small business featuring local artisans and crafters, and continues to welcome school field trips, keeping its history alive for the next generation.

📷 Photo courtesy of The Sentinel & Enterprise

Learn more about preservation work across the Heritage Area at freedomsway.org

07/20/2026

Another great reason to come to the band concert on the Common this Thursday, July, 23: root beer floats for sale! And free for all THS members (and you can join or renew there and get your root beer float free)!

Music starts at 7:30 and ends at 9:30. We hope to see you there!

07/18/2026

Thank you so much to Deluxe for this incredible donation!

https://townsendhistoricalsociety.org/2026/07/18/deluxe-donates-historic-house-to-townsend-historical-society/

07/18/2026

Music starts at 7:30 and ends at 9:30. We hope to see you there!

06/29/2026

Check out the story of the second generation of the Reed Family!

Oliver and Letty’s 5 Children If you missed the post on the first generation, click here. 1. James Wilson Read 1814-1815 James Wilson, named after his maternal grandfather was born on 16 Nov 1814 a…