Preserving "the best-known small town in America"
Minutes, historical society issues, membership and fundraising.
This recent article focuses on fundraising, the proprietor search, and a recent, successful Pepsi Challenge grant. Times Argus article by Susan Smallheer
Immediately after the tragic November 1 fire which destroyed the Putney General Store, the Putney Craft Tour responded with a raffle, donating handcrafted prizes worth over $3K. The drawing was held Friday night at the Putney Community Supper, also hosted by the Craft Tour.
What’s the status of the arson investigation?
The case is still active, though there’s been no specific update from the Fire Marshall, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms, or the State’s Attorney (who is prosecuting the case)…but that’s not surprising. The investigators are working quietly, behind the scenes, and they can’t share information without jeopardizing the case. The ATF is currently the primary investigatory force. A $15,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for setting the fire (Call 1-800-32-ARSON & reference case #09-D202950).
The Putney Craft Tour is sponsoring a fantastic raffle, whose proceeds will go to the Putney Historical Society towards the rebuilding of the store. Drawing Feb. 11 at the Community Supper–you need not be present to win. Thousands of dollars in prizes! Some prizes are viewable in the Photos section of this website, or at … Read more
Local Musicians, Poets and Puppeteers help rebuild community spirit after fire.
On the evening of November 20, at 7:30 pm, performers from Putney and Westminster West gathered at the United Church in downtown Putney in the spirit of rebuilding what was lost on the night of November 1st.
Dear readers, Thank you all so much for your warm concern and regrets. We have been faced with an incredible challenge this week, and we turn to you for a little support. If you didn’t know–the General Store burnt to the ground November 1, just as we were in the final stretch of reconstruction, prior … Read more
The Lisai family has numerous remarkable connections to the history of Putney, ranging from surveying relatives even before the first settlement to gravestone masons. Read the recent Reformer article.
Today at the annual meeting, PHS members voted to accept the 1841 United Church of Putney, with the understanding it will become our new home. Community suppers and support groups will continue. What a day! Our report included a total of 660K to date for the general store. Opening May 3. Thank you, to friends … Read more
Note: some times have been recently adjusted due to memorial services for Milly Ellis (past PHS board member) and Claire Oglesby. All events are free, though contributions are accepted; donations are suggested for Pierce’s Hall events.
Saturday, August 22
10am-2pm–Putney Historical Society open for visitors.
Historic Building Tours:
The Putney Historical Society will soon decide whether to accept the kind offer of the United Church of Putney at its annual meeting on Saturday, August 22, at the church. The United Church of Putney recently closed after 237 of existence. Read about this story online in the Commons: Church closing means a likely new … Read more