In 1916 a local group of historians met in the newly built Damon Hall and drafted a Constitution. “The association shall be called the Hartland Historical Society and shall consist of active and contributing members. The object of this society shall be to discover, collect, preserve and create an interest in, whatever relates to the history of Hartland, Vermont”.
We are working to maintain that mission in our museum building at 14 Vermont Route 12 in Hartland. This is just west of the intersection with Vermont Route 5, and is the second building west of Damon Hall.
We have artifacts that have been generously given or loaned to us over all these years. They consist of items, pictures, letters, diaries and more from local families, town and church records and those of other organizations. We have items of interest from other areas: the stove from the first library, the movie projectors used for public films in the early 1900’s, uniforms, war posters, and other artifacts from Hartlanders who served our country in different wars. Of special interest is our library of cemetery records, genealogies, and school records. Now, thanks to the Internet, we are answering requests from an ever-broadening audience and learning more to add to our library, as well.
The first dues were 25 cents. We charge a bit more now but still consider membership to be a bargain. For $5 per person or $10 per family per year, you can become a member. Members receive “hot off the press” newsletters three times a year and the satisfaction of helping to support our programs. We are growing all the time and are proud to have members from many parts of the country. Hope you will find the membership form and join us!!!
The public is invited to visit the Society’s museum to learn more about the history of Hartland. See our home page for hours.
Current exhibits include:
- The original switchboard from the Hartland Telephone Company
- Movie projectors from Damon Hall
- Some of the inventors and inventions associated with Hartland
- War posters
- Hartland Fair memorabilia