About us
Cultivating a deep appreciation for the historical narrative that shapes our lives
The Town of Somerset Historical Society stands as a vital cornerstone of cultural life in Barker and the surrounding Somerset area, providing a sense of continuity in an ever-changing world. Our organization is wholeheartedly dedicated to the meticulous preservation and presentation of the documents, physical artifacts, and oral histories that define our rich rural heritage. We view ourselves as far more than just a traditional museum; we are a living, breathing classroom where the past actively informs the present and inspires the future. Our educational philosophy centers on the transformative idea that history should be tactile, engaging, and deeply personal for every visitor who walks through our doors. We strive to make our extensive archives accessible to everyone, from professional historians seeking rare primary sources to young students discovering the wonders of local lore for the very first time. What makes our organization truly unique is our deep and authentic integration with the local community, which allows us to act as a bridge between generations. We don’t just collect history in a vacuum; we facilitate its creation by encouraging residents to share their family stories and contribute to our constantly growing collection. This collaborative and inclusive approach ensures that our historical narrative is representative, diverse, and constantly evolving to reflect the unique experiences of everyone who has contributed to the growth of our town.
Our Story
From Humble Beginnings to a Beacon of Regional Heritage
The story of the Town of Somerset Historical Society began many decades ago with a small but visionary group of residents who recognized that the rapid pace of modern technological life was threatening to erase the physical and cultural landmarks of our town. These dedicated founders spent countless hours gathering discarded farm implements, yellowed letters, and fading photographs from attics, barns, and basements, understanding that these seemingly mundane items were actually the silent, powerful witnesses to our collective experience. From these early, informal gatherings in living rooms and community halls, the society has grown into a structured, professional, and highly respected institution housed in the heart of Barker. Our journey has been defined by steady, purposeful growth and an unwavering commitment to our original mission of preservation and education. Over the years, we have expanded our physical archives, developed a robust and specialized educational curriculum, and established ourselves as a vital regional resource for genealogical and historical research. The impact of our work is felt throughout the community as we help residents connect with their ancestors and foster a sense of deep pride in our local achievements and agricultural roots. Our story is still being written today by every volunteer, donor, and visitor who steps through our doors to help us honor the legacy of Somerset and ensure its preservation for the centuries to come.
What We Do
Engaging Hearts and Minds Through Historical Discovery
At the Town of Somerset Historical Society, our daily activities are centered around the twin pillars of professional preservation and community education. We manage an extensive and well-organized archive that serves as a primary resource for researchers, students, and local enthusiasts who wish to delve into the records of the past to find answers for the present. Our program overview includes a diverse range of offerings, from guided tours of historic sites and landmarks to specialized workshops on archival techniques and family tree construction. We believe firmly in an active learning approach, where history is experienced through direct interaction rather than through passive observation or distant reading. Visitors to our society might find themselves examining a hand-written 19th-century ledger, participating in a traditional craft demonstration led by a local artisan, or attending a lecture on the fascinating agricultural evolution of the Niagara region. We actively encourage community participation and collaboration to foster a deeper, more nuanced appreciation of Somerset’s historical narrative. By providing these valuable resources and engaging programs, we empower our members and visitors to become the primary stewards of their own history, ensuring that the rich heritage of Somerset remains a vibrant, living part of our daily lives. Whether we are digitizing old records or hosting a school field trip, our focus remains on making history a shared and accessible human experience.
Contact Us
We are here to answer your questions and help you explore the rich history of our region
There are multiple, easy ways to get in touch with our professional team whether you have a very specific research question about a local ancestor or simply want to learn more about our upcoming community events and membership options. You can reach us at any time via email at info@tshs.site or by sending physical mail to our office at PO BOX 368 BARKER, NY 14012. Our staff is dedicated to providing timely, thorough, and helpful responses to all inquiries from the public. We also strongly encourage you to visit us in person during our regular public hours to experience our exhibits and archives firsthand and speak with our knowledgeable curators. For those who prefer digital connection options, we maintain an active and engaging presence on various social media platforms where we regularly share historical photos, community news, and real-time event updates. We value every single opportunity to connect with members of our community and look forward to hearing your stories and answering your questions. Our organization is built on the shared history of our neighbors, and we believe that open communication is the key to ensuring that every voice in Somerset is heard and every memory is preserved.
Join Us/Work With Us
Building a career in the heart of local heritage and community service
The Town of Somerset Historical Society is always on the lookout for passionate, dedicated, and highly skilled individuals to join our professional staff and help us expand our mission. Our career opportunities range from specialized archival and curatorial roles to dynamic educational outreach and essential administrative support positions. We take immense pride in our unique team culture, which is built on a strong foundation of mutual respect, a shared passion for regional history, and an unwavering commitment to serving our community with warmth and professionalism. We offer a highly supportive and collaborative work environment where all employees are encouraged to pursue ongoing professional development and contribute their unique ideas to our growing organization. Our application process is thorough and designed to identify individuals who not only have the necessary academic and professional qualifications but also share our deep, personal commitment to the vital mission of historical preservation and public education. We believe that our team is our greatest and most valuable asset, and we are dedicated to fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive, grow, and make a truly meaningful impact on the cultural life of Somerset. Working with us means becoming a vital part of Barker’s ongoing story, as we work together to ensure that our past remains a living and inspiring part of our future.
