The Harvard Historical Society’s Shaker Village House Tour on Saturday, Sept. 15, was a wonderful success in many ways. Perfect fall weather, a large turnout, enthusiastic and well informed volunteers—all made for a day everyone enjoyed.
We want to thank the homeowners again for opening their unique houses to afford people a look at an important piece of Harvard’s past and to hear its fascinating stories. Visitors were very respectful of the homes and full of admiration for how the owners have preserved so much of the original detail. There was a strong sense of community as people strolled the trails and sites through the village and the South Family buildings and experienced the incredible landscape the Shakers once shaped and walked.
Harvard is fortunate that private citizens, the Harvard Conservation Trust, individual homeowners, and town boards such as the Historic Commission have taken steps over the years to preserve the Shaker Village area and surrounding land.
The Historical Society is a private, nonprofit institution, sustained by membership dues, donations, and grants. Proceeds from this tour will help us maintain our own historic Meetinghouse, preserve our collections, and offer programs to the public throughout the year.
We had cooperation from the police, the EMTs, Conservation Commission, Cemetery Commission, and DPW.
Thanks to our program advertisers and to everyone else who supported this event.
Denis Wagner, President
Harvard Historical Society Board of Trustees
