I would like to utilize the Wizard from time to time to update you, the members, on the progress of the Society’s Board of Directors and our core of dedicated volunteers’ efforts toward fulfilling the tenets of our Mission Statement. That statement includes the protection, restoration, and development of the Society’s buildings and collections. Our organization serves as an educational institution dedicated to instilling within the citizens of Peabody an appreciation for their rich social and cultural history. The many projects we have initiated will serve to expedite the implementation of this goal.

Possibly the most exciting project we have undertaken this year is the long awaited restoration of the Nathaniel Felton Sr. House. As most of you are aware, Josephine Smith willed this house to the Society in 1982. At that time it had little in the way of heat and limited electricity. Under the direction of Dan Terenzoni, some elements of the electrical system were restored, with the remainder of the work to be completed within the year. The four rooms on the first floor were restored with period wall coverings and paints. The dining room to the left of the main entrance reflects a dining room from the Federal Period circa 1800. The room to the right is in the style of a home from the early Georgian era of 1750. While we have some fine pieces from these times, we are always looking for donations of period pieces of furniture, china, or any appropriate home furnishings from these or any other era prior to 1900. If you have something you feel you would like to contribute to our collections, please call the office to arrange for a pickup or delivery of this tax-deductible donation 978-531-0805.

Additionally, with the help of funds from Essex National Heritage Commission, a cedar shingle roof was installed on the Senior House last year at a cost of $35,000. The restoration of the forty-three windows in the house was funded by donations from you, the members, and members from the business community as well as with a Grant from the Community Preservation Fund continues to be a success.

The Board has also approved the funds necessary for the painting of the exterior of the house. We anticipate that this project will be completed by the late fall of this year. We are looking forward to a bright future for this grand and historic three hundred sixty year old house.

This is but one of the many projects we are working on. I will continue to keep you apprised of our progress. We hope that you will continue to share in the implementation of our Mission Statement. I encourage you to get involved ! We need your help and counsel. We are open Tuesday evenings 7 to 9 p.m. and Wednesday afternoons from 1 to 4 p.m. at our properties on Washington Street. Hope to see you there.

Respectfully,
For the Board of Directors
William Power