Museum on Main Street to Kick Off in Sheffield

Smithsonian’s “Crossroads: Change in Rural America” Arrives at Bushnell-Sage Library Sunday

Known for its rich, fertile land and agriculture, Sheffield is a picturesque New England town in the Housatonic River Valley in Western Massachusetts and the oldest town in Berkshire County.

Originally inhabited by the Stockbridge Mahican Indians, settlers purchased the land from Chief Konkapot in 1724.

After some land disputes with neighboring New York, the Town of Sheffield was incorporated in 1733 and remains an important agricultural center in Massachusetts.

Sheffield’s past and present-day way of life will take center stage as the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street (MoMS)–“Crossroads: Change in Rural America” comes to the Bushnell-Sage Library from March 26 through May 6, in cooperation with Mass Humanities.

“It’s been such a rewarding experience for our community to prepare for Crossroads,” said Director of the Bushnell-Sage Library, Deena Caswell. “Those of us on the planning team have deepened the relationship between our various community groups, and having so many local organizations working together is a reminder of the “all hands on deck” attitude needed for success in rural America.”

Caswell added, “I’m excited for the people of Sheffield to recognize themselves and their experiences in this exhibit. Sheffield is “where the Berkshires began” – we have families that have been in town for generations, and have seen many new faces that only multiplied during the pandemic. As one of those recent arrivals, working on the Crossroads project has taught me so much about our history and makes me excited about our future. I also am eager for visitors to enjoy our nature, arts, culture, and community as they come to Sheffield.”

“Crossroads: Change in Rural America” offers small towns a chance to look at their own path to highlight the changes that have affected their fortunes over the past century. The exhibition will prompt discussions about what happened when America’s rural population became a minority of the country’s population and the ripple effects that occurred.

Throughout the exhibit, the “Crossroads” theme will connect Sheffield’s land, people, identity, persistence, and change to evaluate the town’s past, present and future.

“The rural communities of the Berkshires are places with rich histories, brilliant people, and persistent challenges,” said Executive Director of Mass Humanities, Brian Boyles. “We applaud the work of our partners in Sheffield to make this Smithsonian exhibit a catalyst for conversation and renewal.”

Throughout the exhibit, the “Crossroads” theme will connect Sheffield’s land, people, identity, persistence, and change to evaluate the town’s past, present and future. 

This unique programming includes:

• Sunday, March 26, 3pm: Opening Reception, Bushnell-Sage Library–Celebrate the opening of the traveling Smithsonian exhibit “Crossroads: Change in Rural America.” Featuring music by the Lucky Five, food by the Marketplace, and festivities by the Miller.

• Friday March 31, 7pm: Growls, Hoots, and Silence at Dewey Memorial Hall–The Wild Animals of Sheffield Dewey Memorial Hall Since the last glacier scraped north leaving tundra behind, wildlife has come and gone many times. What does the future look like? Discussion with slides by Nancy Elle Smith, former Executive Director of Sweet Water Trust and a founder of the Sheffield Land Trust.

• Monday, April 3, 7pm: Ashley Falls: A History Through Stories at the Trinity United Methodist Church–The early history of Ashley Falls, the first European settlement in the Berkshires, is documented by records and deeds, letters and newspapers. This program will do something different. Long-term residents, and some with shorter terms, will narrate stories about the village stretching back to the beginning of the last century. Stories heard from parents and grandparents, changes seen and experienced personally will paint a picture of what village life was like then and how Ashley Falls has changed over the last one hundred and twenty years to become what it is today.
   
• April 14-28: Juried Art Show: Rural Berkshires: Always Adapting at Dewey Memorial Hall–This juried show reflects Berkshire County’s artists’ innovative energy and abilities. Mediums include oil, acrylic, watercolor, collage, quilting, mixed media, and photography. Join us for an opening reception on Friday, April 14 at 6pm featuring our talented artists, the music of Rees Shad and the Conversations, and food & drinks.

• Saturday, April 15, 2pm: Oral History Collection Day: Recollections of Sheffield’s Black Community in the 20th Century at the Dan Raymond House–The Sheffield Historical Society will conduct an oral history day to record recollections of Sheffield’s Black community and its members from the 1900s. If you have family connections, or were a neighbor, classmate, student, friend or acquaintance of members of the community, the Society invites you to share your memories. The oral histories will be added to the Sheffield Historical Society archives, and you will have the choice to have your recording become part of their current research project on the history of Sheffield’s Black community between 1781-1915.     

• Sunday, April 16, 3pm: Pox, Pus, and Creeping Miasma: Disease & Death in 18th & 19th Century New England at Dewey Memorial Hall–Historian Dennis Picard shares a bit about the symptoms, causes, and treatments endured by those in the Berkshires and will show examples of antique medical devices and medicines.

• Thursday, April 20, 7pm: Creating Community in Sheffield: A Community Conversation at Dewey Memorial Hall –The past few years have brought big changes to Sheffield. How can old and new neighbors come together to both preserve our history and prepare for a vibrant future? Join us for a spirited and civil conversation. Registration required.

• Sunday, April 23, 3pm: Revolutionary War Doctors in the Berkshires at Dewey Memorial Hall–The War for Independence was a catalyst for advancement in medicine for both soldiers and civilians. Dr. Brian Burke & Gary Leveille of the Great Barrington Historical Society will highlight some of the capable physicians who served the Berkshires during and just after the war.

• Thursday, April 27, 7pm: Sheffield: Through a Generational Lens at Old Parish Church–A range of local panelists will reflect on socially poignant topics of their generation and how their lives and town have changed. Opportunity for audience participation will follow. Hosted by The First Congregational Church of Sheffield with the conversation moderated by Rev. Jill Graham.

• Sunday, April 30, 3pm: Recollections of 20th Century Healthcare in the Southern Berkshires at Dewey Memorial Hall–The 20th Century saw the establishment of modern medicine in the Southern Berkshires, in particular with the opening of Fairview Hospital in 1912. A panel of healthcare professionals who worked in the region will share their recollections of what it was like to give and receive healthcare in the latter half of the 1900s.

• Saturday, May 6, 2pm: The Natural (and Human) History of Sheffield at Greenagers Barn –Why is Sheffield an ecological treasure? What does the future look like for wild nature, for farms, for ecological integrity? Greetings by Will Conklin, Executive Director of Greenagers; Angela Sirois- Pitel · Western Massachusetts Stewardship Manager at The Nature Conservancy; Kathy Orlando, ED of Land Protection, Sheffield Land Trust; Rene Wendell, Land Steward, The Nature Conservancy. Registration required. 

Mass Humanities will host a reception to celebrate the opening of MoMS in Sheffield with the Rural Policy Advisory Commission on Friday, March 31 at 4pm, at the Bushnell-Sage Library.

Over the past year, the staff at Bushnell-Sage Library received extensive training from Mass Humanities and the Smithsonian, along with a $10,000 grant from Mass Humanities to develop public events during the six-week exhibit.

Mass Humanities’ local sponsors and partners for the MoMS Sheffield stop include Fairview Hospital BHS, Dewey Hall, Sheffield Historical Society, Sheffield Land Trust, Housatonic Heritage, and Friends of the Bushnell-Sage Library.  

Mass Humanities’ partners for the statewide tour include the National Endowment for the Humanities, Big Y, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

Launched in 1994, MoMS is a Smithsonian outreach program that engages small-town audiences and brings revitalized attention to underserved rural communities.  The program partners with state humanities councils like Mass Humanities to bring traveling exhibitions, educational resources and programming to small towns across America through their local museums, historical societies and other cultural venues. Exhibitions are designed to engage communities and become a catalyst for conversation about life in small-town America.

Organizations located in towns with populations of 12,000 or less were eligible to apply for the MoMS grant. The six sites chosen for MoMS will have the opportunity for a second-year grant to continue the work and programs they developed as part of MoMS.

MoMS kicked off in Massachusetts in September at the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, traveled to the Hull Lifesaving Museum in October, the Rutland Free Public Library in December, and the Great Falls Discover Center at Turners Falls in January before arriving in Sheffield. Athol Public Library (5/14/2023 – 6/24/2023) will follow the stop in Sheffield and close out the traveling exhibit’s tour in the state.

For more information about each activation, including the times and locations, click here.  

For further information, contact Program Officer Jen Atwood at jatwood@masshumanities.org.

Mass Humanities is seeking qualified candidates for two fellowship opportunities to conduct and synthesize research on the origins of the shared reading tradition of Frederick Douglass’ influential address, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”, both nationally and in Massachusetts, as well as research the life of Douglass in the Commonwealth.

The research will be used by Mass Humanities to support the forthcoming launch of a website and national resource for Frederick Douglass readings.

Mass Humanities believes Douglass’ words belong in public spaces and has supported readings in town squares, community centers, churches, museums, libraries, and parks.

As a part of our work to advance new ideas about historical texts and connect neighbors in meaningful conversations about what it means to be a free and equitable society, Mass Humanities will create resources for Reading Frederick Douglass Together that will educate participants about the shared reading tradition, embedded in African American public memory.

The Shared Reading Tradition Fellowship

The research conducted by this Reading Frederick Douglass Together Fellow will create an account of the tradition of community readings of Frederick Douglass’s Fourth of July address, and their place within African American public memory traditions both nationally and in the Commonwealth.

Application for this fellowship are open with proposals and interviews to occur on a rolling basis from now through April 21, 2023.

The Frederick Douglass in Massachusetts Fellowship

This Reading Frederick Douglass Together Fellow will synthesize existing research and potentially discover additional information to create a comprehensive account of the historical presence of Frederick Douglass in Massachusetts; places he lived and visited, individuals and organizations that he supported, his work throughout the Commonwealth, and the impact of his time in the state on his work and life.

Drawing these connections will add to and amplify the stories that shape Massachusetts and the United States.

Application for this fellowship are open with proposals and interviews to occur on a rolling basis from now through April 21, 2023.

Each year Mass Humanities supports public readings and discussions in Massachusetts of Frederick Douglass’s famous Fourth of July address, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” through our Reading Frederick Douglass Together grant.

Each community considers the meaning of the speech in the past and its resonances in the present. This shared reading tradition began prior to the establishment of our grant opportunity, but no account of its origin or its relationship to broader African American public memory traditions exists.

Mass Humanities believes in fostering robust civic engagement and champions opportunities for all communities in Massachusetts to reinvigorate our democracy by telling, sharing, and reimagining the diverse stories and ideas of our Commonwealth—together.

The fellowship is made possible with a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities under the initiative A More Perfect Union.

Send proposals to jobs@masshumanities.org.

For more information contact Program Officer Latoya Bosworth at lbosworth@masshumanities.org.

Mass Humanities announced a new Staffing Recovery Grants initiative during a celebration at the State House on Feb. 16. The initiative is made possible through a special Cultural Sector Pandemic Recovery Grant from Mass Cultural Council, the state arts agency.

At the celebration inside the State House’s Great Hall, Mass Cultural Council announced a $2.5 million grant to Mass Humanities. Mass Humanities plans to launch its first round of grants by awarding $1.25 million through the Staffing Recovery Grant initiative.

Applications are now open.

On Thursday, April 6, from  12pm – 1PM, Mass Humanities Will Host a Staffing Grants Webinar.

Mass Humanities Executive Director Brian Boyles said the Staffing Recovery Grants would be a two-year funding opportunity for organizations with budgets of $500,000 or less and five or fewer full-time employees. The initiative will deliver funding to non-profit organizations to sustain and expand the hours of current staff, or to hire new staff in order to create, restore or grow humanities programs.

“The humanities help us learn from the past, make sense of the present, and think about how to create a free and equitable society for the future,” said Boyles. “As we rebuild our communities, Mass Humanities continues to believe in local, grassroots organizations that serve residents with limited resources and big dreams. These grants focus operational support for this part of the sector. At this critical time, we are grateful to our partners at Mass Cultural Council and in the legislature for envisioning a recovery where the cultural sector has the resources to inspire a new beginning for the Commonwealth.”

On December 13, 2021, then Governor Charlie Baker signed An Act Relative to Immediate COVID-19 Recovery Needs into law. This multi-billion-dollar pandemic recovery-spending plan invests both federal ARPA and state surplus revenue dollars into key economic sectors to spur activity and growth.

The Act provided $60.1 million to Mass Cultural Council and directed the state arts agency to develop and implement new, one-time grant programs to assist Massachusetts creative and cultural organizations with their pandemic recovery.

“The creative and cultural sector is vast and diverse, and Mass Cultural Council is keen to ensure that our pandemic recovery monies are invested equitably across all communities,” said Michael J. Bobbitt, Executive Director of Mass Cultural Council. “This is why we partnered with Mass Humanities and are relying upon them to distribute $2.5 million to Massachusetts humanities-based organizations, initiatives, and programming. These funds will support the humanities and help the field continue to build back after the pandemic. It’s a major investment and I am excited to see the good work these public monies will propel forward.”

Since the outset of the pandemic, Mass Humanities has awarded more than $4 million in grants to non-profits, including $2 million in funding made possible by the CARES Act and ARPA.

“Massachusetts has come a long way since the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the recovery remains ongoing,” said Former Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development Sen. Edward J. Kennedy. “Today’s historic investment by Mass Cultural Council will assist in that recovery and for cultural organizations to flourish. Congratulations to all grant recipients; your work is taking the cultural sector of the economy live. Thank you once again to our amazing partners at Mass Cultural Council, Mass Humanities and MASSCreative.“

The celebration included riveting performances by the Hamilton-Garrett Brass Band and Linda Marie Póssa.

To learn more about Mass Humanities grant opportunities contact Katherine Stevens, Director of Grants and Programs, at grants@masshumanities.org.

Grants support community storytelling, Douglass events

2022 Expand Massachusetts Stories Grant Recipient, Southeast Asian Coalition

Mass Humanities is pleased to announce two upcoming grant opportunities.

In 2022, the foundation awarded more than $1 million in grants to non-profits, supporting free public events, oral history projects, and community conversations and media partnerships. This year, we seek to increase our impact through the Expanding Massachusetts Stories initiative, and our long-running Reading Frederick Douglass Together program.

“We believe the work of so many Massachusetts residents to reimagine our stories provides a pathway to reinvigorating our democracy at the local, state, and national level,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “These vital programs amplify the diverse ideas, stories and conversations that continue to make the Commonwealth a global leader in ideas and the fight for equality.”

Mass Humanities grants opportunities for the 2023 season include:

• Expand Massachusetts Stories (Up to $20,000)–At this pivotal time, Massachusetts needs new voices and fresh narratives to meet our challenges. We support organizations that embrace this historical moment as an opportunity to bring communities together to reimagine stories, revitalize traditions, and ignite new ideas for the future. Expand Massachusetts Stories (EMS) grants support projects that collect, interpret, and share narratives about the commonwealth, emphasizing the voices and experiences that have gone unrecognized or have been excluded from public conversation. As part of the EMS grant program, Mass Humanities will also offer Advancing Equity Track grants to 15 applicants whose projects are led by people from historically excluded communities, and whose organizations meet additional criteria. Advancing Equity Track applications are open with Letter of Inquiries due on Monday, March 20. Applications for the EMS Open Track open Monday, March 20, with applications due on Monday, May 22.

• Read Frederick Douglass Together Grants (Up to $2,000)–Each year, Mass Humanities organizes and funds free events where communities gather to read and talk about Frederick Douglass’ influential address, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” The most celebrated orator of his day, Douglass’ denunciations of slavery and forceful examination of the Constitution challenge us to think about the stories we tell and do not tell, the ideas that they teach or do not teach, and the gaps between our actions and aspirations. To quote Douglass: “We have to do with the past only as we can make it useful to the future.” Applications are open now and grants are made on a rolling basis each month.

• Staffing Recovery Grants (Up to $40,000): These grants will be a two-year funding opportunity for organizations with budgets of $500,000 or less and five or fewer full-time employees. The initiative will deliver funding to non-profit organizations to sustain and expand the hours of current staff, or to hire new staff in order to create, restore or grow humanities programs. Staffing Recovery grant applications are open with applications due Monday, May 1. A webinar for this grant opportunity is scheduled for Thursday, April 6. Click here to register.

Last year Mass Humanities awarded more than $713,000 in grants to 42 organizations across the Commonwealth through the Expand Massachusetts Stories grant program with support from the Barr Foundation.  Of the 42 grantees, 62% had people who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) among their project leadership; 60% of the organizations funded had operating budgets under $500,000; and 48% had operating budgets under $350,000.

More than 25 organizations hosted Reading Frederick Douglass Together events across the state in 2022.  Each event features a group of diverse people gathering to read portions of the Douglass’ Fourth of July speech. The readings provide the opportunity for communities to discuss race, democracy, and our responsibilities to the past and how we might find ways to strengthen our future together.

Mass Humanities are made possible in part by a partnership with Mass Cultural Council, the state arts agency, and by the National Endowment for the Humanities.

To learn more about Mass Humanities grant opportunities contact Katherine Stevens, Director of Grants and Programs, at grants@masshumanities.org.

Museum on Main Street “Crossroads: Change in Rural America” makes stop at Great Falls Discovery Center

Originally known as Peskeompskut, the area of Turners Falls was once inhabited by Indigenous Tribes prior to European contact. After 10,000 years of continuous Indigenous habitation, Turners Falls became one of five villages established along the Connecticut River in Montague, MA during the mid-19th Century.

Founded in 1868 as a planned industrial community to harness the immense power of the local waterfalls, Turners Falls has undergone numerous changes over the past two centuries.

Turners Falls’ past and present-day way of life will take center stage as the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street (MoMS), in cooperation with Mass Humanities, rolls into the Great Falls Discovery Center, Turners Falls from Feb. 5 through March 18.

“Like the whole of America, Franklin County has seen transformation and depression, ebbs and flows,” said Sarah Doyle, Secretary of the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center Board. “The Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center are excited to bring the Smithsonian’s Crossroads exhibit to Turners Falls so that we all may explore together the unvarnished and beautiful history of this community, and where we are today, within the context of the country at large.”

Crossroads: Change in Rural America offers small towns a chance to look at their own path to highlight the changes that have affected their fortunes over the past century. The exhibition will prompt discussions about what happened when America’s rural population became a minority of the country’s population and the ripple effects that occurred.

Throughout the exhibit, the “Crossroads” theme will connect Turners Falls’ land, people, identity, persistence, and change to evaluate the town’s past, present and future.  

Over the last several months, the Great Falls Discover Center, Turners Falls has worked with the Smithsonian, Mass Humanities and local partners to create additional exhibitions and programming that ties Turner Falls to the Crossroads theme.

Mass Humanities’ local sponsor for the MoMS Turners Falls stop is Greenfield Savings Bank.

Other local sponsors and partners participating include Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Town of Montague’s RiverCulture, the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association, Montague Public Libraries, and New England Public Media.

Mass Humanities’ partners for the statewide tour include the National Endowment for the Humanities, Big Y, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Over the past year, the staff at Great Falls Discover Center received extensive training from the staff of Mass Humanities and the Smithsonian, along with a $10,000 grant from Mass Humanities to develop public events during the exhibit, which will be on display for six weeks.

“The partnerships and conversations planned by the team at Great Falls Discovery Center reflect a deep commitment to the Turners Falls community,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “We look forward to learning from their innovative approach to Museum on Main Street.”

This unique programming includes:

• Saturday, Jan. 28 at 1pm: Photo Beat, Past and Present–Moving Forward in Time, Capturing of the Moment–Meet Joe Parzych and enjoy light refreshments. His exhibit, Photo Beat, Past and Present— Moving Forward in Time, Capturing of the Moment, captures changes in local rural life.
• Friday, Feb. 3, Feb. 10, Feb. 17, Feb. 24, and March 3 at 1pm: Nice & Easy Walk: Crossroads Edition–An easy-paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, along the Canalside Rail Trail or downtown Turners Falls, geared for seniors, but open to all ages. Join others seeking fresh air and exercise. A DCR Park Interpreter highlights local history, weaving in topics from the Crossroads: Change in Rural America exhibit.
• Sunday, Feb. 5 at 1pm: Crossroads Exhibit Ribbon Cutting–Come be the first to see the Smithsonian Exhibit, Crossroads: Change in Rural America, in Turners Falls! Get the scoop on how rural America has changed since 1900. The Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center board members, expert hosts of the monthly Great Falls Coffeehouse series, provide coffee and refreshments for this big day.
• Saturday, Feb. 11 at 6pm: Crossroads Kickoff–Join us at the Shea Theater Arts Center in Turners Falls to jump start your Crossroads experience with storytelling, a short local film, and live music. Hear an introduction to the Crossroads exhibit and related programming with Leo Hwang, UMASS Amherst Assistant Academic Dean. Enjoy the documentary short film, “A Sweet Tradition,” by filmmaker Steve Alves that highlights the local family tradition of making maple syrup. New England Public Media presents storytellers featuring local points of view on contemporary Franklin County life, the most rural mainland in Massachusetts.
• Saturday, Feb. 18 at 1pm: Crossroads: Franklin County Industrialization–Find out what industries were created throughout Franklin County, before, during and after industrialization of the Turners Falls canal. Learn how much industrial activity there once was along the streams and rivers in some of our now-quiet towns and villages and how that activity related to the larger industries in our region.
• Sunday, Feb. 19 at 4pm: Crossroads Artist Reception: Montague at Work and Play–This exhibition of digital illustrations was originally published in the Montague Reporter between 2019 and 2022. Created by local artist and Turners Falls resident Nina Rossi, the illustrations depict scenes of local daily life.
• Saturday, Feb. 25 at 1pm: Crossroads: Cutlery and Hand Tools–Join silversmith Steve Smithers as he explores the story of the first tradesmen/artisans who came to Greenfield and the surrounding towns in the late 18th century, which eventually led to the emergence of the great metal industries of our region.
• Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 6pm: Crossroads: Food for Thought, Soup Night, Quiz Night, and Community Conversation–Enjoy delicious locally prepared soup and join your Franklin County neighbors in a dialog about food, farms, and food insecurity. Registration required.
• Saturday, March 4 at 4pm: Crossroads Event: Recovering Indigenous Histories Along the Kwinitekw (Connecticut River)–A Talk with Dr. Margaret M. Bruchac (Nulhegan Abenaki), Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania. Indigenous histories in the valley of the Kwinitekw are long and deep, tracing back to glacial times and marked by many, many generations.
• Sunday, March 5 at 1pm (Deerfield) and Monday, March 10 at 10am–Montague Center: Crossroads: Rural Landscapes: Painting Workshops (Deerfield)–Artists have long celebrated the beauty of Franklin County’s rural landscape. Be one of them as you create your own small abstract land and waterscapes inspired by the views around us. Adults and teens of all skill levels will find their creativity unlocked in this fun introduction to the River Gallery School’s Sequencing approach. Free. All materials provided. Bring an art apron if you have one. Presented by the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association in Deerfield and co-sponsored by Tilton Library in South Deerfield and Montague Public Libraries.
• Sunday, March 12 at 3pm: Deepening the Power of Place: Exploring our Cultural Crossroads through Story, Song and Spoken Word–Join us for Crossroads Closing Event with Erica Wheeler and Andre StrongBearHeart Gaines, Jr. Singer/songwriter Erica Wheeler’s keynote concert celebrates our connections to Franklin County with a performance at the Shea Theater Arts Center. This will be followed by “Social Songs & Spoken Word Poetry: The Confluence of Traditional Eastern Woodlands Social Songs and Modern Spoken Word Poetry,” composed and performed by Nipmuc Tribe citizens Andre StrongBearHeart Gaines, Jr. and his nephews, Daishuan Reddeer Garate and Miguel Wandering Turtle Garate. This performance will explore the common themes that connect ten-thousand-year-old traditional Indigenous social songs with modern day Spoken Word poetry.  

Launched in 1994, MoMS is a Smithsonian outreach program that engages small-town audiences and brings revitalized attention to underserved rural communities.  The program partners with state humanities councils like Mass Humanities to bring traveling exhibitions, educational resources and programming to small towns across America through their local museums, historical societies and other cultural venues.

MoMS kicked off in September at the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, traveled to the Hull Lifesaving Museum in October, and arrived in Rutland Free Public Library in December before coming to the Great Falls Discover Center at Turners Falls. Turners Falls will be followed by stops at the Bushnell-Sage Library, Sheffield (3/26/2023 – 5/6/2023) and Athol Public Library (5/14/2023 – 6/24/2023).

Organizations located in towns with populations of 12,000 or less were eligible to apply for the MoMS grant. The six sites chosen for MoMS will have the opportunity for a second-year grant to continue the work and programs they developed as part of MoMS.

For more information about each activation, including the times and locations, click here.  

For further information, contact Jen Atwood at jatwood@masshumanities.org.

On Monday, Dec. 19 Mass Humanities joined members of the state’s Rural Policy Advisory Commission as well as elected officials from Rutland to celebrate a successful opening of the Smithsonian Museum on Main Streets (MoMS) traveling exhibit “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America” at the Rutland Free Public Library (RFPL).  

The event highlighted the importance of focusing a statewide dialogue on the ‘Crossroads” theme and the exhibit’s ability to spark meaningful discussions in rural communities as they explore their past, present and future.

“Mass humanities creates opportunities for the people of Massachusetts to transform their lives and build a more equitable Commonwealth through the humanities,” said Jen Atwood, Mass Humanities Program Director. “We’re bringing Museum on Main Street, an exciting partnership with the Smithsonian, because Mass Humanities believes that small local organizations are essential to creating positive change for their communities.”

Over the past year, the RFPL received extensive training from the staff of Mass Humanities and the Smithsonian, along with a $10,000 grant from Mass Humanities to develop public events during the exhibit, which will be on display through Jan. 28.

The RFPL has developed programming that will highlight Rutland’s land, people, identity, persistence, and change.

“Now that it (MoMS) is here, I’m really excited about it,” said Kerry Remington, Director of RFPL.  “We have six really awesome programs that we have designed around Rutland. I’m hoping we’re going to be very busy and people are going to continue to come to our library and see our fabulous display in conjunction with the Rutland 300th Committee. This (exhibit) is an awesome way for the town to close up its 300^th Anniversary celebration.”

Sen. Anne Gobi said it was fantastic that MoMS has come to Rutland and dovetailed with the town’s 300^th Anniversary.

“What a great way to end the year,” said Sen. Gobi, who co-chairs the Rural Caucus in the Senate. “There is nothing more important than understanding how important rural America is as well as the arboreal areas of Massachusetts. So often we forget what’s important in our own backyard and to have this exhibit here really shines a light on what is going on (in rural towns).”

Gobi continued, “Rutland is a community that anytime it’s faced with a challenge, the people here know how to rise to the occasion, and do what needs to be done–and they’ve done that again with this exhibit. So I’m excited to have it. I’m looking forward to seeing the rest of it and hopefully, more and more people will see it.”

At the reception, Rural Policy Advisory Commission member, Trish Settles, discussed some of the challenges and opportunities that rural Central Mass communities face today.

“I am so happy that Mass Humanities pursued this exhibit and partnership with the Smithsonian,” said Settles. “There are 170 communities in Massachusetts that are considered “rural” and the rural culture of Central Mass is a very breathtaking environment. We have full potential for participation in the movements towards small scale farming; locally made food and beverage products; where strong small businesses and economic sectors are different from those inside the Route 128 Beltway.”

However, Settles pointed out that rural towns still face many obstacles, and exhibits like MoMS shine a light on the struggles of rural Massachusetts.

“The median income is higher in urban areas and metropolitan Boston, and while the cost of housing is less out here, the cost of transportation makes those housing costs and the cost of living higher in a lot of rural communities,” said Settles. “The average earning job in Franklin County is 40% of the Boston area. So we continue working with our legislative rural caucus, asking them to consider the rurality factor when it comes to making decisions in the Commonwealth.”

Launched in 1994, MoMS is a Smithsonian outreach program that engages small-town audiences and brings revitalized attention to underserved rural communities.  The program partners with state humanities councils like Mass Humanities to bring traveling exhibitions, educational resources and programming to small towns across America through their local museums, historical societies and other cultural venues.

Sponsors for the tour include: Big Y, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and New England Biolabs Foundation.

For further information, contact Jen Atwood at jatwood@masshumanities.org.

Museum on Main Street “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America” traveling exhibit makes its next stop at the Rutland Free Public Library

The Town of Rutland is more than a crossroads. It is the geographic center of Massachusetts with a rich history dating back to the 1700s.

Rutland’s past and present-day way of life will take center stage as the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street, in cooperation with Mass Humanities, rolls into the Rutland Free Public Library (RFPL) from Dec. 18 through Jan. 28.

Celebrating its tricentennial this year, Rutland has undergone many transformations over the past three centuries.  

The beautiful residential hill town in the geographic center of Massachusetts just 52 miles west of Boston, Rutland became known for its clean air throughout the 19^th Century, and the town grew as a health resort center in the 1880s.

During the onslaught of tuberculosis, Rutland became famous for its health care industry and fresh air environment. This industry continued until December 23, 1991, when the last of the healthcare facilities closed its doors and is now a bedroom community with many of its residents commuting to Boston and Springfield daily.

“Like the unassuming maple tree that marks our town as the geographical center of Massachusetts, Rutland is humble, robust, and hospitable,” the RFPL Board of Trustees said in a statement. “It is a town with historical moments and notable landmarks. Supporting the community remains the central focus of Rutland. Farms, families, festivities, and being on the frontline in health causes, be it tuberculosis or the pandemic, unite our community. As we mark our tricentennial, we are excited to host the Smithsonian to showcase this quiet but impactful town.”

The library’s goal in hosting this exhibit, and complementing programs, includes bringing greater awareness to the rural beauty and culture of small-town life; bringing awareness to new residents of Rutland’s history within; leveraging attention to the town’s 300^th-Anniversary celebration; increasing volunteerism within the community; and maintaining and continuing the strong partnerships between different civic organizations and business within the community.

The net effect will be a renewed sense of optimism and positive energy, which will build more excitement and interest in the library and its programs while inspiring visitors to the exhibition.

Throughout the exhibit, the “Crossroads” theme will connect Rutland’s land, people, identity, persistence, and change to evaluate the town’s past, present and future.  

Over the last several months, RFPL has worked with the Smithsonian, Mass Humanities and local partners to create additional exhibitions and programming that ties Rutland to the Crossroads theme. Some of the local sponsors and partners participating include The 300th Anniversary Committee; Rutland Historical Society; Rutland Historical Commission; Rutland Congregational Church; Saint Patrick’s Church; Rutland Senior Center; Jordan’s Farm; Local Schools in Wachusett Region and beyond; Rutland Boy Scouts; Rutland Department of Public Works; Rutland Treasure’s Office; Rutland Town Clerk; Finnish Society; and the Lion’s Club.

Mass Humanities’ partners for the statewide tour include National Endowment for the Humanities, Big Y, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Over the past year, the RFPL received extensive training from the staff of Mass Humanities and the Smithsonian, along with a $10,000 grant from Mass Humanities to develop public events during the exhibit, which will be on display for six weeks.

“Museum on Main Street is an opportunity for a community to come together and explore its past, present and future,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “We’re honored to partner with Rutland residents and we look forward to learning from their conversations.”

Carol Harsh, director of the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street, added, “The Rutland Free Public Library has generated tremendous energy and immense pride as they’ve developed programs to showcase the unique and rich history of the community. We’re excited that people will soon be able to engage with stories of Rutland’s heritage, industry, and transformation.”   

This unique programming includes:

• Wednesday, Dec. 28 at 1 pm: Book discussion on “The Pioneers” by David McCullough–A community read and discussion that will focus on themes of westward expansion and what Rutland’s role in it was–including reflections on Rutland’s own Rufus Putnam, who is known as “Father of the Northwest Territory.” This program is in partnership with local bookstore Root & Press, which will provide special pricing on the book for those who wish to purchase it.
• Sunday, Jan. 1 at 1 pm: Finnish Life in Rutland—A history of the Finnish community in Rutland presented by Finnish Heritage Society Sovittaja. This program will explain why so many Finnish families immigrated to Rutland and some of the cultural practices and traditions still celebrated today in Rutland.
• Sunday, Jan. 8 at 1 pm: Farmer Forum—A mediated conversation of local Rutland farmers, led by Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Director John Lebeaux discussing farming sustainability in a small town. The farmers will discuss how farming has changed, what life is like for a farmer today and how Rutland farms are adapting for the future.
• Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 1 pm: Healthcare through the ages in Rutland—Rutland has a history of medical facilities for Tuberculosis back to the late 1800, and early 1900’s to the recent pandemic when it hosted the 3rd largest COVID-19 vaccine clinic in the state.
• Sunday, Jan. 15 at 1 pm: Three Lawsuits—This program will cover three critical case lawsuits that happened locally from the late 1700s that provided significant legal changes around slavery and questions of freedom. Presented by local historian David Libby.
• Sunday, Jan. 22 at 12:30 pm: Taste of Rutland: Worcester Regional Food Hub and Local Farmers–Join us to taste and buy the best products grown, raised and crafted locally.

Launched in 1994, Museum on Main Street (MoMS) is a Smithsonian outreach program that engages small-town audiences and brings revitalized attention to underserved rural communities.  The program partners with state humanities councils like Mass Humanities to bring traveling exhibitions, educational resources and programming to small towns across America through their local museums, historical societies and other cultural venues.

MoMS kicked off in September at the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum and traveled to the Hull Lifesaving Museum in October before arriving in Rutland. Rutland will be followed by stops at the Great Falls Discovery Center, Turners Falls (2/5/2023 – 3/18/2023), Bushnell-Sage Library, Sheffield (3/26/2023 – 5/6/2023) and Athol Public Library (5/14/2023 – 6/24/2023). Organizations located in towns with populations of 12,000 or less were eligible to apply for the MoMS grant. The six sites chosen for MoMS will have the opportunity for a second-year grant to continue the work and programs they developed as part of MoMS.

For more information about each activation, including the times and locations, click here.  

For further information, contact Jen Atwood at jatwood@masshumanities.org.

Partnership will ensure The Clemente Course continues to change lives

Four and a half years ago, with her two sons in tow, Jessica Cox relocated to Holyoke from Vermont in search of a better life.

While her move was rooted in a mother’s instinct to improve her family’s future, it was also filled with a level of uncertainty and anxiety.

As a single mother starting over in a new city, Jessica knew Holyoke would be filled with endless possibilities but wasn’t sure how to access new opportunities.  

Like many single parents in her situation, Jessica turned to the local social service office to achieve stability while she figured out her next move.

However, it was during a casual check-in with her caseworker at Holyoke’s Department of Transitional Assistance that would change Jessica’s life forever.

“My youngest was six-months-old at the time and sitting on my case worker’s desk were these brochures about Bard College’s Clemente Course in the Humanities at The Care Center in Holyoke,” said Jessica. “My case worker, a very kind woman, told me the program was something she recommends to a lot of women looking to further their education.”

Jessica said she was awestruck when her caseworker told her the college-level classes at The Holyoke Care Center were free.

“I couldn’t believe it because nothing in this world is free, right? I thought there had to be a catch” said Jessica.

Because she was out of school for so long, Jessica was apprehensive about enrolling in college-level classes but finally took her caseworker’s advice.

“I finally said, ‘Okay, I’ll give it a go and see what it’s all about,” said Jessica. “So I did and it changed my life.”

The program in Holyoke is made possible through a renewed partnership between Mass Humanities and The Care Center as well as The Clemente Course in the Humanities and Bard College. Holyoke was home to the first Clemente Course in Massachusetts; the first in New England, and the only one just for women.

The course champions opportunities for Massachusetts residents from historically and systemically excluded communities to engage with, discuss, and author stories and ideas about our democracy. The course is designed around a student-centered, seminar-style learning environment where students are invited to actively engage in discussion, critical thinking and form a writing community. 

“Clemente changes lives,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “Mass Humanities began our journey with the program more than twenty years ago with Holyoke, so it’s an honor to renew our partnership with The Care Center. I’m looking forward to learning from their community.”

Along with Holyoke, adults in Brockton, Dorchester, New Bedford, Springfield, and Worcester can attend tuition-free, college-level classes in art history, critical thinking and writing, history, literature, and philosophy.

In addition to earning college credits from Bard College, Clemente participants draw upon their lived experiences to spark new ideas about historical texts; connect with neighbors about relevant civic issues ranging from LGBTQ rights to voting accessibility; author powerful anthologies like We, Too, Are America and This is Your Democracy; and take on leadership roles in their communities.

“We had this radical idea years ago to give people with little means what people with means have,” said Anne Teschner, executive director of The Care Center in Holyoke and former Mass Humanities staff member. “We said, “Let’s just do it and see what happens” and, of course, what has happened is remarkable. At this point, hundreds of women’s lives and the lives of their families have been changed.”

Anne continued, “The Clemente story is one of the state’s more under-told stories. We received a Presidential Medal, so it’s understood at the national level by some, but I think the State of Massachusetts does not know what fabulousness is happening here. The Clemente Course concept is powerful and we’re still here after 20 years of doing this work because it changes lives profoundly.”

Jessica would be the first to agree with Anne and her time spent taking the Clemente Course in Holyoke forever changed the trajectory of her life.

“You know, it wasn’t just about going to school it was about finding my identity as a single mother, starting over in a new place and really finding out who I was separate from everybody else in my life,” said Jessica. “It’s something I’m incredibly grateful for to this day. If I decided that day in my caseworker’s office not to enroll in Clemente, I never would have experienced all the wonderful things I’ve experienced.”

Jessica continued, “It showed me that I wasn’t just a welfare mother and that I had the potential to do so much more. It made me love learning again and want to be a better parent and give my kids the future they deserve.”

Now, Jessica’s future looks as bright as ever, and life has seemed to come full circle since that day in her caseworker’s office four and a half years ago.

She’s enrolled at Smith College, has big plans for her education, and works part-time at The Care Center. 

“I graduated Clemente in 2019 and I’m working on my bachelor’s degree at Smith College with the goal of getting my master’s degree in social work,” she said. “I also work as a program assistant at The Care Center and check in on the new Clemente students all the time.”

In the end, Jessica gave some advice to anyone thinking about taking the Clemente Course.

“Just do it and dive in because you’ll be surprised at who you are and who you’re going to become,” she said. “The course just opens doors that you never thought were possible to open. Don’t be afraid and just go do it because it’ll be worth it in the end.”

Aaron Vega, Deborah Hall, Kristin McGurn and Ed Augustus Join Statewide Board

Mass Humanities is pleased to announce the induction of Aaron Vega, Deborah Hall, Kristin McGurn and Ed Augustus as the foundation’s newest board members.

Vega is Director of Economic Development for the City of Holyoke and a former State Representative. Hall serves as CEO of the YWCA Central Mass in Worcester. McGurn is an attorney and co-managing partner of Seyfarth’s Boston office. Previously the City Manager of Worcester, Augustus is the first Chancellor of Dean College in Franklin.

“We welcome these new members and look forward to incorporating their expertise into the work we do,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “Aaron, Deborah, Kristin and Ed each bring track records of driving change in their professions. I’m honored that they’ve volunteered to serve Mass Humanities and the Commonwealth.”

About Our New Board Members

Aaron Vega is excited to join the Mass Humanities board and brings his experience and passion to the organization. He served four terms as Holyoke’s State Representative and before that, two terms as an At-Large City Councilor. Prior to his life in the public sector Aaron was a documentary film editor for nearly 15 years, working for HBO, TLC, PBS and most notably being part of Ken Burns editorial team for “Jazz”.

Aaron lives in Holyoke with his wife Debra, who is a former radio City Rockette and current dance and yoga teacher. They have a son Odin who has also taken to the stage and dance in between practicing guitar and playing Minecraft. 

Deborah Hall is CEO of the YWCA Central Mass. She has over 30 years of experience working with survivors of domestic violence and addressing the intersection of race, gender, and community violence. She is social justice advocate and an art lover. 

Deborah has served in leadership positions for several programs throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Missouri addressing issues of homelessness, violence, and substance abuse. She holds a BS in Political Science and African American Studies from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, and a MS in Nonprofit Management from Worcester State University. She currently serves on the boards of   Worcester Eastside CDC, Worcester Business Improvement District, Worcester Education Collaborative and Jane Doe, Inc.

She is a frequent speaker on gendered violence and violence in the lives of Black women. She is the founder of Worcester Black History Project, a member of the Advisory Committee for the Worcester Cultural Plan, and a member of the American Antiquarian Society.

Kristin McGurn is co-managing partner of Seyfarth’s Boston office, a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment department, and a co-chair of the Health Care, Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals group. She is an experienced litigator, whose knowledge spans federal employment law, analogous state common law, and statutory claims, including Title VII, ADEA, FMLA, ADA, FLSA, civil and equal rights, fair employment practices, and wage payment claims. She counsels and defends scores of employers in many business sectors, with an emphasis on matters affecting the health care and pharmaceutical industries.

Kristin also helps nonprofit and for-profit businesses negotiate and draft employment policies, contracts, and covenants. She prosecutes and defends all manner of employment-related disputes, including agency enforcement actions and discrimination, harassment and retaliation, pay equity, breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, nonsolicitation, unfair competition, and whistleblower claims.

Ed Augustus is the first Chancellor in Dean College history. As Chancellor, Ed reports directly to the Board of Trustees and works closely with Dean College President, Kenneth Elmore. Ed has worked in public service for more than 30 years.

Ed was appointed as the City Manager of Worcester in 2014. As City Manager, he focused on continuing Worcester’s economic development renaissance, supporting education and youth, and making city government inclusive for all residents of New England’s second-largest city. Prior to his appointment as City Manager, Ed, a native of Worcester, served as Director of Government and Community Relations at the College of the Holy Cross.

His career began at the age of 23 when he was appointed to the City of Worcester’s Human Rights Commission. A few months later, he was elected to the Worcester School Committee, becoming the youngest person ever to hold elected office in Worcester. He served on the School Committee for two terms.

Building on his commitment to education, Chancellor Augustus moved to Washington, D.C. where he worked in President Bill Clinton’s United States Department of Education from 1992 to 1998. Augustus also served as U.S. Congressman Jim McGovern’s Chief of Staff in Washington from 1998 to 2004. He served two terms in the Massachusetts State Senate, representing Worcester’s 2nd District.

He is a graduate of Saint John’s High School in Shrewsbury, Suffolk University and a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University.

Each year, Mass Humanities accepts nominations from the public for seats on its board.

On Sunday, Oct 23, over 150 Mass Humanities friends and supporters came together at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston to celebrate this year’s Governor’s Awards honorees.

Each year, Mass Humanities recognizes individuals whose public actions enhance civic life in the Commonwealth through a deep appreciation of the humanities.

At the event, Barbara Lee, founder and president of The Barbara Lee Family Foundation and The Barbara Lee Political Office; Callie Crossley, host of Under the Radar with Callie Crossley; Frances Jones-Sneed, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts professor; and Fredric Rutberg, president and publisher of New England Newspapers, Inc. were all honored for their commitment and stewardship of the humanities in Massachusetts.

“It’s an honor to have this opportunity to address this year as recipients of the Massachusetts Governor’s Awards in the Humanities,” said Gov. Charlie Baker in a taped address Sunday evening. “The humanities bring people together. When we connect through shared learning experiences and conversations, we each contribute to the ongoing story of the Commonwealth and our communities.”

Baker said this year’s honorees each represent the best of the best with respect to achievement in the humanities.

“Massachusetts is lucky to serve as the home of so many inspiring individuals,” continued Baker. “I want to thank you for your invaluable contributions to the Commonwealth and beyond into the humanities fields. Your dedication and passion and made Massachusetts a better place to live and learn.”

First to be honored Sunday evening was Barbara Lee, who accepted her Governor’s Award virtually.

Originally from New Jersey, Lee, left home for Simmons College and pursued a master’s degree in Social Work from Boston University.

In 1998, Lee founded the Barbara Lee Family Foundation, which aims to elevate women’s representation in politics and contemporary art. Since then, Lee has helped elect 197 women in 33 states through her political office, including every sitting Democratic woman Governor and U.S. Senator.

“Thank you, Mass Humanities, for this prestigious award and for your amazing work, and thank you, Governor Baker, for this enormous honor. As we all know, women are essential to the humanities, so I accept this award on behalf of every woman who has ever published a book, picked up a paintbrush, or sat down at a pottery wheel; every woman who has ever run for office, whether she has won or lost; and every woman who has followed her heart and strengthened the whole of our society. This award is for all of you,” said Lee. “I know a better future is in the making. This belief is the foundation of my work, and this is a proud part of my family’s history. I see more school history books that celebrate the stories of women and people of color who have shaped our nation. I see museums that showed women who aren’t just objects of art, but women artists sharing their vision. And I see women political leaders who show that they can dream big and accomplish big things. So thank you again for honoring me with this prestigious award.”

Next, Callie Crossley accepted her award as one of this year’s honorees. In her long and varied career, Crossley has shown a passion for amplifying voices that don’t often get a lot of airtime. With programs like Basic Black and “Under the Radar with Callie Crossley” and in weekly radio essays on WGBH’s Morning Edition, Crossley continues to shine a light on history and current events while providing a platform for everyone to be heard.

“In the words of Maya Angelou “I come as one, but I stand as 10,000,” said Crossley. “The arts and humanities are vastly more important in troubled times, certainly never more important than now. We must find and amplify the wisdom that democracy demands, and I will continue to appeal to my words voice and lived experience through the humanities. I am humbled and appreciative to be in the company of my fellow honorees for and to receive this great honor.”

In accepting her award, Frances Jones-Sneed thanked her friends, family and colleagues that traveled from the Berkshires and commented that she accepts her award not as an individual, but as a part of the collective group of people that she has worked with over the years.

Jones-Sneed, a groundbreaking scholar of history and an invaluable voice in our commonwealth, came to Western Massachusetts from Mississippi in 1993.

After taking a job at the former North Adams State College, she began researching African American communities in the Berkshires. Her collaborative work ultimately produced a revolutionary 250-page book and oral history project that adds vital layers of depth to any understanding of the region.

Jones-Sneed also served as director of Women’s Studies at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and has also been an integral part of the effort to preserve the historic Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church in Great Barrington.

“W.E. Dubois said, “Now is the accepted time. Not tomorrow. Not some more convenient season. It is today that our best work can be done and not some future day or future year. It is today that we fit ourselves for the greater usefulness of tomorrow. Today is the seed time and now are the hours of work, and tomorrow comes the harvest and the playtime once we have done the work,” said Jones-Sneed. “Thank you Mass Humanities.”

Lastly, Frederic Rutberg accepted his award as a 2022 Governor’s Awards honoree to close out the program.

Through his hard work and vision, Rutberg has helped revitalize a historic newspaper, transforming it into an essential component of civic dialogue. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Rutberg got to know the beauty of western Massachusetts at summer camp, as a child and moved to Berkshire County at age 26 and opened a law practice in Stockbridge in 1974. 

In 2015, Rutberg purchased New England Newspapers, Inc. As president and publisher, he has led investment in the newspaper and revitalized it.

“The humanities are the cornerstones of democracy, and democracy requires citizenship,” said Rutberg. “For the first time in my lifetime democracy in America is being threatened and the concept of democracy is being questioned both from the right and from the left, and I find that very scary. As we celebrate the humanities, let’s remember that the cornerstone of our democracy is that it requires citizenship and citizenship is not a spectator sport. We should begin by being responsible citizens who treasure the gift of democracy. If we do so, it’s my belief, we’ll all be better citizens. Thank you all for this gift and support.”

Mass Humanities Executive Director, Brian Boyles, said while our democracy is ill , it is still alive.

“Every day Mass Humanities works with the people that will be part of the rebuild. The healing begins by making the change we believe in at the local level,” said Boyles. “Mass Humanities believes it is our role to change the story, to change who the story tellers are, who we listen to, and, what we do to uplift the spaces that protect those stories. This has been a time of separation and hate. It’s also been a time of renewal and personal strength and earth-shaking calls for a better way. Please join those efforts. We must step boldly into this revision of the humanities and reimagine the stories that play a part in rebuilding our democracy.”

Mass Humanities Board Chair, Dr. Yves Salomon-Fernández, added, “The humanities have the lessons provided by our ancestors, and the messages we pass on to future generations. The humanities are the way we communicate our hopes and our fears to our fellow human beings. The humanities–history, literature, and philosophy–help us respond to the essential questions, “What is the right thing to do?” What do I owe to my family, my community, and especially to my country?” Here at Mass Humanities, we do our work through grants, programs, and partnerships. We take pride in our public/private partnerships and are grateful for major funders like the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Mass Cultural Council. I invite you to join our supporters in need this evening in envisioning and supporting what the humanities can be in an age of digital transformation, diversity, equity and inclusion.”

Started in 2014, the Massachusetts Governor’s Awards in the Humanities recognize excellence in the humanities. Mass Humanities partners with the Office of the Governor to name the awardees.

Proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales, and direct donations benefit the organizations and programs that Mass Humanities supports each year, including the Clemente Course, Reading Frederick Douglass Together, and other humanities-based programming that reaches people throughout Massachusetts.

Mass Humanities would like to thank the following sponsors for making the 2022 Governor’s Awards a huge success:  

Luminary

• Berkshire Health Systems
• Al & Sally Griggs
• Lia & Bill Poorvu
• Laura Roberts & Ed Belove
• Howard & Fredi Stevenson
• Anonymous

Champion

• Eastern Bank
• GBH
• Ronald Hertel
• K | B Private Wealth Management Group

Benefactor

• Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
• John Burgess and Nancy Adams
• Steve Immerman
• Paula Johnson/Wellesley College
• Celinda Lake/Lake Research Partners
• Mass College of Liberal Arts
• Kristin McGurn
• Jeff Musman
• Seyfarth Shaw LLC
• Raymond James

###

For further information, contact John Lynds at jlynds@masshumanities.org.

Smithsonian Museum on Main Street “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America” traveling exhibit makes stop at the Hull Lifesaving Museum

As a sandy peninsula on the southern edge of Boston Harbor, the Town of Hull has undergone many transformations over the past century. From a small fishing village to a seaside resort Hull is once again at a crossroads with shifting demographics and new development projects on the horizon.

Hull’s rich history and present-day way of life will take center stage as the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street, in cooperation with Mass Humanities, rolls into the Hull Lifesaving Museum (HLM) from Oct. 30 through Dec. 10.

The museum’s goals in hosting this exhibit and complementing programs include bringing greater awareness to small town issues and showing how Hull’s history and current state are both similar to and different from other small crossroad towns. The net effect will be a renewed sense of optimism and positive energy which will build more excitement and interest for the Museum and its programs while inspiring visitors to the exhibition

Throughout the exhibit the “Crossroads” theme will connect Hull’s land, people, identity, persistence, and change to evaluate Hull’s past, present and future.  

Over the last several months, HLM has worked hand-in-hand with the Smithsonian, Mass Humanities and local partners to create additional exhibitions and programming that ties Hull to the Crossroads theme. Some of the local sponsors and partners participating include: Nantasket Beach Resort, Jake’s Seafood Restaurant, Hull Pride, No Place for Hate, Jews of Nantasket Beach, the Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association, Hull Historical Society and the New England Historic Genealogical Society. Mass Humanities’ partners for the statewide tour include: National Endowment for the Humanities, Big Y, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

It was fitting the HLM was chosen to be part of MoMS because it celebrates the heroic actions of the coastal lifesavers, who set out into the sea during storms to save imperiled sailors from around the world as they attempted to navigate the treacherous waters at the entrance to Boston Harbor. These coastal lifesavers did not ask those sailors about their race, religion, country of origin or sexual orientation before saving them because they saw everyone as humans in need of help. 

“We are much more than a Museum” said Mike McGurl, HLM Executive Director. “We offer a wide range of programs including six public events in conjunction with our upcoming exhibition Museums on Main Street, Towns in Crossroads, sponsored by the Smithsonian. The diverse programs help to frame the Town of Hull and The Hull Lifesaving Museum an important Crossroad in the history of the country.”

Rep. Joan Meschino (D-Hull) said she is excited for the MoMS exhibit to arrive in her hometown on October 30.

“I want to thank Mass Humanities for recognizing that when communities get these type of grants it really helps them uplift, illuminate and connect,” said Rep. Meschino.

Over the past year the HLM received extensive training from the staff of Mass Humanities and the Smithsonian along with a $10,000 grant from Mass Humanities to develop public events during the exhibit, which will be on display for six weeks.

“We are inspired by the events and ideas taking shape at the Hull Lifesaving Museum for their time with the Smithsonian exhibit,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “The team there focuses their work on being inclusive and improving lives in their community through humanities programs. I’m looking forward to being there this fall to learn more about their nationally-significant history and innovative future.”

Selwyn Ramp, project director with the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street added, “The Hull Lifesaving Museum has generated tremendous energy as they’ve prepared for the arrival of “Crossroads: Change of Rural America”. They’ve developed community programs highlighting the unique and rich history of the community of Hull and the Nantasket area. We’re excited to see the renewed pride of place and enthusiasm to engage with stories of Hull’s heritage, industry, transformation, and its connection to the broader story of rural America.”   

This unique programming includes:

• Saturday, Oct. 15: Hull Village Architecture Walking Tour–Get ready for hills and architectural thrills! Join Bob Pahl, Massachusetts registered architect and member of Hull Village Historic District Commission, on a walking tour adventure as we explore the architecture of Hull Village. We’ll examine buildings stretching from the colonial era through to the contemporary discussing the unique expression of familiar styles in this formerly remote fishing village. 128 Spring St Hull Village from 10AM to 12PM.
• Thursday, Oct. 20: A Community’s Journey of Diversity–Please join moderator Chad Wolfe, on the Board of Directors for Hull Lifesaving Museum and panelists from Hull Pride, No Place for Hate and Jews of Nantasket Beach for a thoughtful discussion of Hull’s journey of cultural diversity. The intention of the discussion is to provide an opportunity for neighbors to engage with one another as they share their experiences and insights. Nantasket Beach Resort, 45 Hull Shore Drive from 7PM to 8PM.
• Tuesday, Nov. 8: Early Families of Hull and Other Genealogical Connections–Go back in time! Join Chris Child, genealogist, author, and lecturer from New England Historic Genealogical Society to discover the English families that settled in Hull in the 17th century, their historical impact on descendants there and elsewhere. Learn about the ancestry of Joshua James, Abraham Lincoln, and other genealogical populations in Hull through the centuries. Nantasket Beach Resort, 45 Hull Shore Drive from 7PM to 8PM. 
• Saturday, Nov. 26: Clash of Cultures: The Pilgrims and The People of the First Light–Enjoy a riveting walking tour led by Sean Baggett about two cultures; the Pilgrims and Indigenous peoples. For a short time, they were successful in working, living and thriving; by putting aside their differences and prioritizing this complex relationship above their differences. Actions, views and decisions in this period led to the most devastating war in our history and set into motion the treatment of indigenous peoples for the next 400 years and cemented a legacy we continue to struggle with today. XYZ Street Parking Lot Hull from 10AM to 12PM.
• Thursday, Dec. 1: History of the Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association–Join Beth Casoni, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Lobsterman Association as she takes us through the journey of the evolution of lobstering through the years. What the impact of fishery management and right whale conservation has been on the lobster industry. What does the future of lobstering look like? Nantasket Beach Resort, 45 Hull Shore Drive from 7PM to 8PM.
• Thursday, Dec. 8: Hull at the Crossroads: From Summer Playground to the Next Big Thing–What was once a quiet fishing village became a thriving summer resort whose fortunes during the next 100 years would be linked to the amusement industry. As the town outgrew the carnival economy and developed into a year-round suburb, it set its sights on finding the “next big thing” – from urban renewal plans to a casino proposal to the eventual focus on residential condominium development. Today, Hull is at another crossroads, with shifting demographics and new development projects on the horizon. What is Hull’s “next big thing” as it grapples with the remnants of old development models, an aging population, climate change, and its ongoing search for identity? This presentation by Chris Haraden, Hull Historical Society treasurer and contributing editor to The Hull Times will look back at the path that got us here and offer a glimpse of the road ahead. Nantasket Beach Resort, 45 Hull Shore Drive from 7PM to 8PM.

Launched in 1994, Museum on Main Street (MoMS) is a Smithsonian outreach program that engages small town audiences and brings revitalized attention to underserved rural communities.  The program partners with state humanities councils like Mass Humanities to bring traveling exhibitions, educational resources and programming to small towns across America through their own local museums, historical societies and other cultural venues. A private foundation based in Northampton, Mass Humanities serves as the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

MoMS kicked off at the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum on September 10 with programing continuing through October 22. MoMS in Hull will be followed by stops at the Rutland Free Public Library (12/18/2022 – 1/28/2023), Great Falls Discovery Center, Turners Falls (2/5/2023 – 3/18/2023), Bushnell-Sage Library, Sheffield (3/26/2023 – 5/6/2023) and Athol Public Library (5/14/2023 – 6/24/2023). Organizations located in towns with populations of 12,000 or less were eligible to apply for the MoMS grant. The six sites chosen for MoMS will have the opportunity for a second year grant to continue the work and programs they developed as part of MoMS.

For more information about each activation, including the times and locations of each, visit Hulllifesavingmuseum.org.  

For further information, contact Jen Atwood at jatwood@masshumanities.org.

On Friday, September 23 Mass Humanities joined members of the Rural Policy Advisory Commission as well as elected officials from Essex and Hull to celebrate a successful start to the Smithsonian Museum on Main Streets (MoMS) traveling exhibit “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America” at the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum (EHSSM).

Last week’s event highlighted the importance of focusing a statewide dialogue on the Crossroads theme and the exhibit’s ability to spark meaningful discussions in rural communities as they explore their past, present and future.

“Looking at our past and trying to imagine our future is fundamental to how we consider the humanities and how it can be impactful in Massachusetts,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “To be able to come together around this fantastic exhibition and dig deep at the town level on the stories and the challenges that each of these places face is, again, rooted in the humanities and brings us together rather than driving us apart. We want to sustain that work because we really believe our democracy needs new narratives and rural Massachusetts should be part of those narratives.”

At the reception, Chair of the State’s Rural Policy Advisory Commission Linda Dunlavy said while the population of the Commonwealth as a whole is growing the population in the state’s most rural area’s is declining. Dunlavy said exhibits like MoMS, that connect people to rural places, will highlight the challenges many of these communities are facing.

“We don’t talk about rural Massachusetts enough,” said Dunlavy. “It is exciting to welcome the Smithsonian and this exhibit throughout Massachusetts over the next year and we really hope that it’s an opportunity to not only highlight the beauty and the economic strength of rural Massachusetts but also its needs and challenges.”

MoMS kicked off at the EHSSM and Essex Town Hall on September 10 with programing continuing through October 22. The next stop on the tour will be at the Hull Lifesaving Museum (10/30/2022 – 12/10/2022) followed by stops at the Rutland Free Public Library (12/18/2022 – 1/28/2023), Great Falls Discovery Center, Turners Falls (2/5/2023 – 3/18/2023), Bushnell-Sage Library, Sheffield (3/26/2023 – 5/6/2023) and Athol Public Library (5/14/2023 – 6/24/2023). Sponsors for the statewide tour include: National Endowment for the Humanities, Big Y, and Blue Cross Blue Shield with additional support for the Essex MoMS from New England BioLabs and the Essex County Community Foundation.

“Through the strong leadership and partnership between Mass Humanities and the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, the resources of the Smithsonian Institute have come to Essex and the North Shore, giving us all the opportunity to better understand and reflect on the history of American rural communities, and the issues and decisions involved in their future,” said Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-Essex). “It is significant that Essex is the very first community to host this exhibit, and important that the history of this town, built on the hard work of shipbuilders, clammers, and others, be shared as a national example to invigorate discussion about the special nature of rural communities. The exhibit also gives us a great opportunity to think about the town in the context of its role in history, and to think about our role in shaping its future.”

Over the last several months, each MoMS site has worked hand-in-hand with the Smithsonian, Mass Humanities and local partners to create additional exhibits and programming that connects each rural community’s land, people, identity, persistence, and change to evaluate the past, present and future. Each site received extensive training from the staff of the Smithsonian along with a $10,000 grant from Mass Humanities to develop public events during each MoMS stop, which will be on display for six weeks at each site.

“It has really been an amazing opportunity through this exhibit for Essex to look at our identity, who we were, who we are and who we will be in the future,” said KD Montgomery, Executive Director of the EHSSM. “We are all really excited for you to be here.”

Rep. Joan Meschino (D-Hull) said she is excited for the MoMS exhibit to arrive in her hometown at the Hull Lifesaving Museum on October 30.

“It’s absolutely delightful to be here with all of you,” said Rep. Meschino. “I think it was really important for me to come from Hull to be part of this because you cherish these communities, steward them and treat them lovingly. I also want to thank Mass Humanities for recognizing that when communities get these type of grants it really helps us uplift, illuminate and connect.”

Maureen Gillis, Director of Development at the Hull Lifesaving Museum, said it was fitting the museum in Hull was chosen to be part of MoMS because it celebrates the heroic actions of the coastal lifesavers, who set out into the sea during storms to save imperiled sailors from around the world as they attempted to navigate the treacherous waters at the entrance to Boston Harbor.

“They did not ask those sailors about their race, religion, country of origin or sexual orientation before saving them because they saw everyone as humans in need of help,” said Gillis. 

Launched in 1994, MoMS is a Smithsonian outreach program that engages small town audiences and brings revitalized attention to underserved rural communities.  The program partners with state humanities councils like Mass Humanities to bring traveling exhibitions, educational resources and programming to small towns across America through their own local museums, historical societies and other cultural venues.

For further information, contact Jen Atwood at jatwood@masshumanities.org.