West Newbury Summer Festival

This past Saturday, during the lively West Newbury Summer Festival, the Historical Society opened its doors for a special open house—and for the first time in many years, the building was bustling with energy, conversation, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked delights.

Visitors were treated to decadent samples prepared using recipes from historic cookbooks, several of which were on display for guests to browse. These time-honored treats were more than just delicious—they offered a tangible taste of the past, lovingly recreated in our own kitchen.

Artifacts related to cooking and food preparation were also on exhibit, generously loaned in part by Justin Squizzero, with many pieces drawn from the Society's own collection. From antique utensils to vintage kitchenware, each item helped paint a vivid picture of how meals—and memories—were made in generations past.

As guests wandered through the space, examining displays and chatting with volunteers, the building itself seemed to come alive. There was a hum of excitement in the air, a sense of history not just being preserved—but actively shared and celebrated.

Adding to the richness of the event, at least one oral history was shared during the day, reminding us that the stories of our town live not only in artifacts and books, but in the voices of those who remember.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers and organizers who made this special day possible—not only on Saturday, but over the past several months. From planning and preparation to organizing and deep cleaning, your time, effort, and passion brought the Historical Society to life in a truly memorable way.

The open house was a heartwarming success and a meaningful reminder of why we cherish our local history. For one special day, the Historical Society wasn't just a place to learn about the past—it was the heart of the present.