DRHS E-Bulletin
March 2018
High School students installing WWII exhibit at the Drew Archival Library
School Program Season Begins
Drew Archival Library

During the last week of February, the staff of DRHS collaborated with Duxbury High School students to develop and install exhibitions on World War II. Students were introduced to archival material and three-dimensional objects associated with Duxbury's experience in the war; they were then asked to select, research, and display the exhibits using appropriate materials and techniques. Other classes came in to read and examine World War II materials. A special thank you to high school teachers Mr. Mael and Mr. Craft for collaborating with the DRHS. 

Throughout the spring and fall seasons, the DRHS offers school programs to more than 1,000 Duxbury school children each year. Programs range from lectures on abolition, to introducing third graders to the development of the village of Duxbury. The Drew Archives also hosts high school interns who work on collections projects as part of their school curriculum. All of these programs are offered free of charge as they are an important part of the DRHS's mission.
Duxbury's Histor y
In This Issue
Spotlight on Collections
WWII Dogtags

The newest acquisition to the DRHS collection is a pair of World War II dog tags assigned to Charles Fremont ("Monty") Shirley of Duxbury. Charles was the eldest child of Dr. John Newton and Clara Shirley of Chester Street born April 19, 1917.  He attended Partridge Academy in Duxbury, where he was Secretary for his class, played on the basketball team, participated in school plays and was on the Dance Committee. In the 1935-36 yearbook, Charles said his favorite occupation was "Fireflght'ng [sic]" and his ambition... well, he humorously replied "None (It doesn't pay)."

Tour Guides Needed
Historic Houses Open to the Public July 5.

We are seeking volunteer tour guides to help with the historic house season, which begins on July 5. Tour Guides are provided with training and serve as enthusiastic ambassadors, welcoming hundreds of visitors each summer and fall. This is a fun way to spend time in the historic houses, learn lots of history, and make new friends.

All levels of knowledge and experience are welcome. Sign up for a few shifts, or keep a regular schedule - we are grateful for all assistance! Interested in learning more? Please contact Alisha Kelly, Outreach Manager, at  [email protected]


Town Meeting begins March 10
Be Informed!

Duxbury's Town Meeting is a centuries-old legacy left to us by early residents in Duxbury. It is a forum for the community to come together, in open discussion and government. 

This year's Town Meeting will present a number of issues relevant to those interested in preserving the town's historic resources and rural character - causes near to the DRHS mission. 

We encourage all of our community to educate yourselves on the topics and vote at Town Meeting. Your presence is important. See you there!

Annual Fund is Critical 
Donations in any amount make a difference at DRHS.

School Programs, Lands Access, Historic House Maintenance, Collections and Exhibitions, & More.

Everything we do is directly funded through donations to the Annual Fund. We ask because we need the support. Please consider making a contribution! Thank you.
Highlighting our Corporate Sponsors
William F. Borhek Insurance

A special thanks to William F. Borhek Insurance, a company that has supported the DRHS for two years at the Weston Fleet Level. This upper-level commitment to the mission of the DRHS is critical and we are grateful for their partnership. 

William F. Borhek Insurance has served the South Shore of Massachusetts since 1964 and has deep ties to the Duxbury community. 

Event Calendar 

  • Tour of Pilgrim Hall Museum for Lifetime Members, March 21 (11 am). In addition to a tour of the permanent collection, visitors will be able to view the current exhibit:
    Wampanoag World: Patuxet to Plymouth. The tour will be greeted with remarks from PHM Executive Director, Donna Curtin. This program is offered free of charge and is limited to DRHS Lifetime Members, in gratitude for their support. RSVP required. Not sure of your Membership status? Give us a call!  
  • 1807 Dateboard Society Event: April 7 (1 pm), Drew Archival Library. Historian & Archivist Carolyn Ravenscroft will be presenting stories on the dateboarded homes around High Street, West Duxbury (including the Thomas Delano House, one of the oldest in Duxbury). Attendees are encouraged to bring their own stories or questions, as this is a great way to get to know other historic house owners in Duxbury. This is an exclusive event for DRHS Members who live in Dateboarded homes or otherwise participate in the Dateboard Program. RSVP requested.
  • Back Roads of the South Shore History Symposium. Coastal Colony, the 17th Century on the South Shore: April 14 (9am - 3pm), Spire Center for the Performing Arts. For more information, visit www.brss.org.
  • Silhouette Portraits for Your Family: April 28 (9am - 4pm), Nathaniel Winsor Jr. House. Just in time for Mother's Day gifts! Only a few spots left. Reservations required: make yours today on our event website (link below).
  • Historic Clothing Displays &Talks: Collaboration between DRHS & the Duxbury Free Public Library. 2nd Floor Resource Room, DFL.
    • On display Monday, January 29 through April 1, clothing based on Charles Dickens' novel,  Martin Chuzzlewit. 
    • On display Monday, April 2 through May: Abby Taylor Litchfield's 1871 wedding outfit. Gallery talks: April 3 (6:30 pm) and April 6 (11 am).