We believe that history is more than black-&-white.
Our History
The Chicopee Historical Society was founded in 1986 by a group of residents who wished to support those with an interest in genealogy and the city’s industrial history. Its members first met at the Edward Bellamy House on March 19, 1986. The Society found new life in 2019 when it gained 501(c)(3) non-profit status.
Mission
The mission of the Chicopee Historical Society is to help rediscover and preserve the history of Chicopee, Massachusetts.
Board of Directors
- Chet Kobierski, President
- Jacqueline T. Lynch, Vice-President
- Melissa Harms, Secretary
- Jeannette Montemagni, Treasurer
- Lori Jerusik
- Nancy Kobierski
- Joseph Pasternak
- Dave Robison
- Wren Wood
- Anton Zamachaj
By-Laws & Meetings
Our Board of Directors consists of four officers and six additional board members all of whom are elected at the annual business meeting in June. Directors meet monthly from December through February with additional meetings called as needed. More information about how the Society operates can be found in our by-laws.
Goals
We aim to acquire, preserve and display artifacts and documents related to the history of Chicopee that support historical and genealogical research. We aim to foster appreciation and stewardship for the history and cultures of Chicopee. In pursuit of these goals, we hold six free educational programs each year.
FAQ
Is the Chicopee Historical Society the same as the Chicopee Historical Commission?
No. The Chicopee Historical Society is a private non-profit run by volunteers.
The Chicopee Historical Commission is a public body whose members are appointed by the mayor to manage the city’s historical and archaeological assets.
Does the Society own the Edward Bellamy House?
No. The Edward Bellamy House is owned by the Edward Bellamy Memorial Association, a distinct organization from the Chicopee Historical Society.
Does the Society accept donations for its archives?
Yes! This depends on the nature of your donation. Send an email to thechicopeehistoricalsociety@gmail.com describing the nature of your donation. We can’t accept everything, but we’d love to talk to you.
You can also write to us at:
Chicopee Historical Society Inc.
P.O. Box 115
Chicopee, MA 01014
Please do not leave donations outside the Edward Bellamy House. They will not be received.
Is the Society accepting volunteers?
Yes! Do you have an idea for a program? Do you have another skill you think would support the Society’s mission? Contact us by email or letter!
We would love to set up a meeting with you!
Meetings
Third Wednesday, Monthly
6:30 PM
Social
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