Swansea Historical Society
Funding Maintenance and Repairs
In 2022, the Swansea Historical Society officers and executive board members, caretakers of the Luther Store, have begun some much-needed repairs on this wonderful piece of Swansea history. The replacement of the wood shingled roof was our first issue that we needed to take care of. There are several items within the interior of the store that also need our attention.
Funding for the roof project has been provided by the Swansea Community Preservation Committee, Baycoast Bank and our members' yearly donations. Work on the project was completed by Josh and Melissa Andrade and their partner Ryan Shaw from Island Custom Builders.
On Saturday, February 12th, 2022 the Swansea Historical Society Executive Board had mason, Jon Isreal, inspect the exterior of the building as well as the fireplaces and chimneys. The inspection revealed issues that we were aware of and additional issues that need to be addressed. Jon has extensive experience working on Masonry of historical structures. He was responsible for the rebuilding of the fire places and chimneys, from the ground up, at the Durfee Lafayette Museum in Fall River.
We need your assistance. Any financial help would be greatly appreciated. Your donations will be used for restoration and repairs only; not for operating funds.
The 2022 Swansea Historical Society Executive Board
Donations to fund the ongoing repairs can be sent to:
The Swansea Historical Society
P.O. Box 723
Swansea Massachusetts 02777
or contact Cheryl Bogle at 508-496-9564 or @ integracrete2@gmail.com
JOIN TODAY!
Topic of the Month
The Sinking of the S.S. Central America
September 12th marks the 166th anniversary of the sinking of the U.S. Mail ship, the S.S. Central America. Onboard was
James Birch and 30,000 pounds of gold. Please click here to read more about this tragic event.
Two questions for you to ponder -
1. What is the real name of the Swansea Public Library?
ANSWER: The full name of the library is "the Frank S. Stevens Public Library"
2. What is the meaning of what is over the door on the front face of the building?
ANSWER: "LEGO UT DISCAM"
meaning "I read to learn"
History of the SHS
Still photo presentation on the history of the SHS and the acquisition of the Luther Store
Tour the Store
While the Luther Store is closed for maintenance and repairs, the SHS is presenting this small
tour of some interesting artifacts inside the store.
Please click here to view the tour.
(updated 9-27-22)
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Visitor number:
Welcome to the Swansea Historical Society!
The Swansea Historical Society is a non profit organization dedicated to preserving, collecting and researching historical information and items. The society also takes pride in creating ways to help future generations understand their heritage and the history of Swansea.
Founded January 23rd, 1941 the Swansea Historical Society celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2021!
Join us at our next event...
Swansea Historical Society 2022 Family Recipe Cookbook
The cookbooks have arrived! Please contact Cheryl Bogle (508-496-9564) or
Sandy Clark to purchase a Swansea Historical Society Family Recipe Cookbook
or fill out and order form (see link on the right) and mail to the SHS with your payment.
Luther Store Issues & Repairs
Swansea Luther Store from Swansea Community Network on Vimeo.
WBZ Radio Interview:
"For centuries, Swansea residents have patronized and loved the J.G. Luther Store on Old Warren Road. Time takes its toll on buildings like this, but the Swansea Historical Society has been able to keep up - until COVID hit. Now, they're scrambling to try and fix massive structural and pest problems in hopes of saving this beloved historical landmark. Cheryl Bogle from the Swansea Historical Society has details on what happened, and how you can help them get the store back to good."
NOTE: The SHS interview is the second half of the podcast."
Upcoming Events
SHS Family Recipe Cookbook
On sale now!
Cookbook Info
Cookbooks can also be purchased at Riverside Art (1600 G.A.R. Hwy, Somerset) or the Swansea Public Library
Swansea Historical Society Annual Meeting
September 24th, 2023
Abraham Lincoln's Last Day - a Talk by David Greene
September 24th, 2023
PUBLIC WELCOME!
more info
Pumpkin Patch Event
October 7th, 2023
Annual Abram's Rock Walk
October, 29th, 2023
Swansea's Holiday in the Village
December 2nd, 2023
Holiday Vendor Craft Fair
December 9th, 2023
more info
Tours
The Luther Store is currently closed for renovations
Research
By appointment only
Anyone wishing to do research (e.g. viewing family files or something in the Swansea Historical Society's collections) please contact Carl Becker at 508-379-0972 or Cheryl Bogle at 508-496-9564 to schedule an appointment.
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Swansea Historical Society!