The Bedford Historical Society

The Keepers of History...

Town Hall

  The Bedford Historical Society is located in Bedford Ohio. The Society maintains four historical structures: A general Americana museum, 12,000 volume library and archives is located in the 1874 Town Hall; the 1832 Hezekiah Dunham House is furnished to reflect three critical periods of occupancy; the 1892 former Baptist Church has a restored sanctuary reflecting the early Protestant Sunday School design of architect Jacob Snyder. These three structures are owned by the Society and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the Bedford Historical Society maintains a 1920s passenger rail station in restored 1882 train depot.
  The educational programs of the Bedford Historical Society include a monthly adult Lyceum series and occasional special Open Houses. Children's programs include tours and hands-on activities. Special tours are always welcome and are customized to the group.
  The Society publishes a quarterly newsletter and has several books in publication.
  The Society receives its main funding through membership dues and fundraisers including the annual Strawberry Festival held on the second weekend of June each year.

Membership in the Bedford Historical Society is open to anyone with an interest in history.
Yearly dues are $10 for an individual;
$20 per family;
$25 contributing member;
$150 Life member.

The Town Hall Museum is open to the public on:
Monday & Wednesday evenings 7:30 - 10:00pm
Thursdays 10:00am - 4:00pm
Second Sunday monthly, 2:00 - 5:00pm
Tours may be arranged by calling 440 232-0796.


Spring Notes:
  Hello Members and Friends,
  As this is being written, there are sure signs of spring returning to Northeast Ohio. The Bedford Historical Society Trustees, staff and many volunteers are planning wonderful events and activities for the year. Our first fundraiser, the Reverse Raffle was well attended and netted funds above what we budgeted. On to the next fundraiser, the Annual Strawberry Festival and Car Show was held on June 12-14th. New this year at the festival was an Art Show in the old Church. The event was well attended. Ben-Venue sponsored the live entertainment at this years festival.

  The main museum, the Town Hall Museum continues to showcase four floors of exhibits. The temporary exhibit " Hunting Stories and Fish Tales" remains until the end of June. Doris Shriver's Ukrainian Eggs are on temporary display along with a collection of antique and unique eggs. They are a delight to view. Doris will be teaching this craft at the Old Ways School in the fall. We also have placed a portion of our extensive vintage postcards on view. There is always something new to catch your attention.

  The Lyceum series is winding down for the season. These monthly offerings are open to the public and are well attended. Plans are underway for next season.

  Want to learn something new? Join us on Monday evenings at the Old Ways School to learn quilting, knitting or crocheting , old tool workshop or letter press printing. Classes start on the first Monday in April.

  The Annual Spring Open House will showcase our genealogy collection. We will have volunteers on hand to help you get started in finding your kin. We are offering an opportunity for you and your family to have a family portrait taken at no charge during the Open House.

  Thank you for your support of our educational programs and services to the community.

Janet Caldwell
Interim director/ curator
Bedford Historical Society

 

Special message from
  Jack G. Ulman