News & Upcoming Events

Upton
History Museum
&
Historical Society

Upton History Museum & Historical SocietyUpton History Museum & Historical SocietyUpton History Museum & Historical Society
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Upton
History Museum
&
Historical Society

Upton History Museum & Historical SocietyUpton History Museum & Historical SocietyUpton History Museum & Historical Society
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The more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future.


Theodore Roosevelt

Upton History Museum

Our Vision

Our vision for the Upton History Museum is to evolve into a destination museum. A museum dedicated to representing the History of Upton and the Blackstone Valley.  We strive to share and celebrate Upton's history through research, publications, exhibits, tours, programs, events, and education. 

Community Engagement

We are currently expanding our event calendar!


With the excitement caused by Ancestry.com and Genealogy research at an all time high, we are increasing access to our records, documents and data. We continue to facilitate to help new enthusiasts to the field. 

Preservation

Current Historical Society Stabilization and Restoration initiatives include the Chestnut Street 10 x 10 Boot and Blacksmithing Shop. 


The Historical Society

The Historical Society

The Upton Historical Society was formed in 1968 as a private non-profit organization incorporated under Massachusetts G.L. Ch 180. The Society is funded by member dues, private donations, fund raising and sponsorships. The mission of the Society is to enrich our community by preserving historical records, artifacts, photographs, recordings and mementos of Upton's history. To share and celebrate Upton's history through research, publications, exhibits, tours, programs, events,and education.  The Town of Upton was chartered in 1735. 

Our Historians

We are fortunate to have individuals, now and in the past, who have and continue to share their stories of Upton. The Board, led by President Scott Garland, and many community volunteers, represent a diverse group with a myriad of interests and expertise. Each has their own perspective, technical skills, and ability to illuminate visitors' understanding of the history of Upton. To be sure, their passion for Upton's History is palpable.


2025-2026 Leadership

Board Members:

  • Scott Garland - President
  • Bill Taylor Vice - President/Treasurer 
  • Lisa Brochu - Secretary
  • Joan Burrell Board Member                   
  • Russell Wood Board Member              
  • Tom Bair  Past President 


Society News & Events

The Athenaeum

The Athenaeum is a significant collection of material that includes documents, maps, newspapers, a catalogue of historic buildings and homes, pamphlets, journals, books, photographs, genealogies, tools, clothing and textiles, awards, ribbons, medals, and scrapbooks. All items have been compiled, recorded and archived for current and future use. The entire collection has been donated or sourced by our past and current residents, society members and local historians.


A SUMMARY of the collection at the Historical Society includes records of Upton government departments, Commissions and Committees, civic and social organizations, churches, cemeteries, businesses, newspapers: all related to people and events in Upton and Massachusetts; the past is archived here. 


You will find additional links for research material in 

The Fay Room, Public Records & Genealogy Sources


Photo Gallery

The Fay Room

THE FAY ROOM was created in Memoriam to Mr. John Fay.

 John was a dedicated volunteer and decades long supporter of the Upton Historical Society. 


Download the PDF's below for the Index of Books located throught the Fay Room and Museum, and the Genealogy Index. 

These lists will assist you to where to begin your search in the Historical Society records. 

You will likely lose yourself in your research and 

have you wishing you brought a brown bag lunch! 

Luckily the Soul Fuel Cafe and Country Sooper are just a short walk away!


Town Meeting Reports, dating back to the early 1900's, are available on 

The Archive Center, at Town of Upton website.


Cemetery Data, including names and plot locations through 2016, 

are pending availability through The Cemetery Commission, at Town of Upton website. 

In the interim, we suggest you begin your search at https://findagrave.com. 


Bring your laptop, immerse yourself in the abundance of material available to you in 

The Fay Room.

Book Index (pdf)Download
Genealogy Index as of July 2019 (pdf)Download
Research Material in The Fay Room (pdf)Download
Lakeview Cemetery 1-106 (pdf)Download

Public Records & Genealogy Sources

  • Massachusetts State Website (www.mass.gov)
  • Worcester County Website (www.co.worcester.md.us)
  • Upton Town Clerk Vital Records (www.uptonma.gov)
  • Worcester County Death Certificates & Records (www.mass.gov)
  • Worcester County Historical Photo Archives (www.familysearch.org)
  • Worcester County Birth Certificates (www.mass.gov)
  • Worcester County Divorce Certificates (www.mass.gov)
  • Worcester County Marriage Certificates & Records (www.worcesterma.gov)
  • Worcester County Genealogy https://www.countyoffice.org/ma-worcester-county-genealogy/
  • https://mhc-macris.net (MACRIS - MA Cultural Resource Information Systems) 
  • https://masshistorycommons.org (Mass History Commons)
  • https://www.massarchaeology.org
  • https://www.americanancestors.org
  • https://www.familysearch.org


As you do your own research, if you come upon a source that is not listed here, please send us an e-mail so that we can add it! 

Membership & More!


Who are Upton Historical Society Members? 


Members include current and previous Upton residents, and  an "extended" family of people who have connections to the Historical Society and have an ongoing interest in our mission, many live out of state. Members near and far enjoy the content of our Facebook page and engage with each other thru the Upton Historical Society and Upton Historical Commission. Both Groups post information regarding the history of Upton. 


What does the funding thru Membership Fees, Donations & Sponsorships pay for?


Operational Expenses, Preservation, Research, Publications, Exhibits, Tours, Programs, Events and Education.



Why should you sponsor the Upton Historical Society?


As a nonprofit organization (501c3), we rely heavily on the support of individuals and businesses who share our passion for preserving local history. With your contribution, we can continue to provide educational opportunities for students, organize community events, and preserve historical artifacts that tell the stories of our ancestors.


Our museum and society have served as a cornerstone of cultural engagement in the community, and we are constantly striving to expand our offerings and improve our facilities. However, maintaining and growing our programs requires funding beyond our membership fees. We are hoping to raise additional support for the following initiatives:


· Restoration of Historical Artifacts: Preserving key pieces of local history, some of which are delicate and in need of care.

· New Educational Programs: Expanding our outreach to schools, senior citizens, and local groups, and offering new exhibits that cover a wider range of topics.

· Facility Improvements: Upgrading our museum to ensure it’s accessible, safe, and engaging for visitors of all ages.

· Community Events & Heritage Day: Hosting events that bring people together to celebrate our town’s unique past and diverse culture.


Your donation would not only ensure that we can continue these important projects but also send a strong message about the importance of preserving the stories that make our town special. 


As a sponsor, you will have the opportunity to:

· Be recognized in event materials, press releases, newsletters, and social media platforms.

· Reach an engaged audience of history enthusiasts, educators, students, and our local community.

· Demonstrate your company’s commitment to cultural enrichment, education, and community involvement.


 We offer various sponsorship levels, each with its own set of benefits. We are also happy to tailor a sponsorship that aligns with your marketing goals and budget. We would be honored to have your support as we continue to preserve the stories of our past for future generations. Please feel free to contact me directly at  uptonmahistoricalsociety@gmail.com if you would like to discuss this opportunity further.


Together, we can ensure that our town’s history continues to inspire, educate, and connect future generations. We look forward to partnering with you!



Paths to Giving

Annual Membership

Annual Membership

Annual Membership

For your convenience, you can use the link below to join the Upton Historical Society. 

$20 Seniors, $25 Adults, 

$35 Family, $250 Lifetime

Membership

Donations

Annual Membership

Annual Membership

With your donation, we can continue to provide educational opportunities for students, organize community events and preserve historical artifacts that tell the stories of our ancestors.


Thank you for your generosity!

Donation

Sponsorship

Annual Membership

Sponsorship

Maintaining and growing our programs requires funding beyond our membership fees. We are hoping to raise additional support for the following initiatives:

Restoration, Education, Facility Improvements, Community Events

 

Together, we can ensure that our history continues to inspire, educate, and connect future generations!

Sponsor
Help the Society Preserve the History of Upton!

Volunteer!

  • Be a museum docent, share your knowledge
  • Record artifacts, photos and documents 
  • Manage archive preservation & storage
  • Create exhibits & displays from  the collection
  • Tailor your experience to your interests
  • Ask us about how you can "Help from Home"



Contact US

Preservation Partners - UniBank - Rushford & Sons Brewhouse

Preservation Partners - UniBank - Rushford & Sons Brewhouse

Preservation Partners - UniBank - Rushford & Sons Brewhouse

Preservation Partners - UniBank - Rushford & Sons Brewhouse

Preservation Partners - UniBank - Rushford & Sons Brewhouse

Preservation Partners - UniBank - Rushford & Sons Brewhouse

Support Our Sponsors!

UniBank - Preservation PartnerRushford & Sons Brewhouse -Preservation PartnerSummers Trucking, Inc. -Community SupporterPickering & Sons Funeral Home - Community SupporterPlains Automotive - Friends of the MuseumWW Contracting - Friends of the MuseumJuniper Hill Natural Foods - Friends of the MuseumPhipps Insurance Agency - Friends of the MuseumTown Line Dairy - Friends of the MuseumRutfield Insurance - Friends of the MuseumCraftech, Inc. - Friends of the Museum

Upton History Museum & Historical Society

We are open Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 10am-12pm, and by appointment. 


Yes, we offer guided tours of the Museum. If you are visiting with a group please contact us so we can guarantee a docent is available. 


Admission to the Upton Museum is free of charge. You can however support the work of the Historical Society by making a donation and/or becoming a member.


Spending time in the Fay Room is the best way to avail yourself to our expansive Athenaeum. The Fay Room is able to accomodate up to 8 visitors. Please bring your personal laptop. 


Please contact the Historical Society thru CONTACT link on this site,  or email uptonhistoricalsociety@hotmail.com to inquire about making an appointment  before dropping off any items to the office. 


Donors are acknowledged  in the Newsletter and recorded in Historical Society records. 


Join the Historical Society Mailing List Here!

The Newsletter, and occasional e-mails, will help us keep in touch with you with updates on events, additions to the collection and new exhibits. Give it a try! Sign UP!

Contact Us!

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Come see us!

We love to have visitors! 

Come see us during our open hours, 

or make an appointment.

Upton History Museum & Historical Society

2 Main Street, Upton, Massachusetts 01568, United States

508-529-6600 uptonhistoricalsociety@hotmail.com WEBSITE: https://uptonmahistory.org FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/ UptonHistoricalSociety

Hours

Mon

Closed

Tue

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Wed

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Thu

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Fri

By Appointment

Sat

By Appointment

Sun

Closed


Please CONTACT US by e-mail at uptonhistoricalsociety@hotmail.com 


Upton History Museum & Historical Society

2 Main Street, Upton, MA 01568, Post OFFice Box #171

uptonhistoricalsociety@hotmail.com 508-529-6600

Copyright © 2023 

Upton History Museum & Historical Society - 

All Rights Reserved.

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