GREENFIELD — The Historical Society of Greenfield has a new president.
Tilda Hunting, who was previously the historical society’s vice president, replaces Robin Yerkes, who was president for the past six years.
Additionally, Sharon Roth is taking over Hunting’s vice president role, and will also act as librarian. Karin Benson continues as treasurer, and Meg Baker continues as secretary and Curatorial Committee chair. Van Wood serves as projects chair.
Hunting said she wants to continue showing the “history of the city and the momentum of the building,” with Benson noting the goal is “to engage with families and try to encourage them to explore the history of this area.”
“In the last three years, we’ve come a long way,” Hunting said. “We’re vastly more available now and it’s shown in the number of visitors and grants.”
The board is also seeking to display more artifacts related to under-represented groups, such as Native American tribes, people of color and people with disabilities.
Hunting said taking over the historical society has been a process of “resurrection, restoration and revival.” The group has some changes in mind for the society moving forward, including moving the library on the third floor down to a renovated space that used to be a kitchen.
“We’ve done a lot of physical work to replace the lights with LED bulbs,” she added.
Baker said Hunting and Benson are great matches for the historical society.
“Tilda has a very strong content of the history of the area from Northampton to Conway,” Baker said. “Sharon brings to the table a wealth of Shaker history (referring to a religious group formed in the 18th century) and her love for museums.”
Throughout its existence, she said the historical society has ebbed and flowed with members, all of which are volunteers, and she credits Hunting for “stepping up in a time of ebbing.”
“We have these women of determination. They have a vision of how we’re going to keep going,” Baker said. “Karin, for example, for her strength of vision of systems analysis and knowing how to create a better learning environment.”
The Historical Society of Greenfield continues to welcome new members and volunteers. Membership is always open and fees are $20 per year. The museum at 43 Church St. will have open hours again starting in May.
Upcoming exhibits at the museum will focus on maps of Franklin County and women’s suffrage. A summertime ice cream social is also planned.
Contact the Historical Society of Greenfield by phone at 413-774-3663 or by email at hsgreenfield1907@gmail.com.
Reach Melina Bourdeau at mbourdeau@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 263.