About Us
The mission of the Ashford Historical Society is to promote appreciation of Ashford history by educating the public and advocating for the preservation of significant historic resources
Our History
The Ashford Historical Society was first established in 1961 to help plan the town’s 250th Anniversary celebration (1714-1964). The founding members included Clayton Kendall, Leon Gardner Sr., Leroy Green, Mrs. Arthur Goodwin, Mrs. John Metsack, Mrs. Maurice Whitehouse, Addison Bassett, and Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Knowlton. This group of dedicated people laid the foundation of gathering historic information about our town. They also succeeded in publishing a booklet to commemorate the 250th Anniversary.
Since the 1960’s, the town of Ashford has delegated to the AHS the primary responsibility for taking care of the Ashford Academy (built in 1825) located on Route 44 in old Ashford village. Each succeeding generation of AHS members has taken this duty very seriously, and today Ashford Academy stands intact in excellent condition.
Since then, our focus has become much broader. By-laws were updated, and the Ashford Historical Society applied for and received incorporation as a non-profit, tax-exempt organization. We’ve challenged ourselves to create an organization that brings together both history and the community to teach how the past is inextricably linked to the future. Our volunteers work to research and archive historical resources so that everyone has access to this information, host and present educational programs to tell the stories that arise from our past, and preserve important artifacts from over 300 years of settlement in the town of Ashford
Research
Education
Preservation
Our Purpose
- To Bring People together who are interested in the history of the town of Ashford, CT
- To collect material which illustrate the History of Ashford, especially the settlement and development both in peace and in war.
- To advocate for the preservation of such material and to make it available to all who may wish to study it.
- To collaborate with the public to ensure the preservation of historic buildings, markers monuments documents and artifacts.
- To create interest in, and provide material for, the study of family groups and genealogical exploration.
- To arouse interest in the past and disseminate historical information.
Have something to Share?
Do you have a story to tell? Have a piece of Ashford History you’d like to share with the community? We would like to hear from you. Visit the Contact Us Page and send us your thoughts.
Other Ways you can help preserve and promote Ashford history:
- Become a Member
- Volunteer
- Support
- Connect