Seeking New Members

There is certainly plenty of historical data that Charlton residents can be proud of and much of the informational caretaking is done by the proud members of the Charlton Historical Society (CHS). The group has recently released their first newsletter of 2026 which also happens to be their first communication in a year. A recent article in The Yankee Xpress newspaper about John Spurr and his Main Street homestead may have been the catalyst for their recent decision to become more dynamic and available to residents thereby providing a more accurate, rich, and vibrant history for everyone who would like to know more about Charlton. This will surely become a win-win situation for those interested in learning more about their wonderful community.

According to town website and National Register historical records, Charlton’s John Spurr was listed as having been a Boston Tea Party participant. After the Yankee article was printed in August 2025 using the two above-named resources, members of the CHS contacted the paper to advise that Charlton’s Spurr was not the individual from the Boston Tea Party’s political protest. A correction was posted which may have prompted a renewed interest in getting the facts right about Charlton’s heritage.

Rider Taven is the home of the Society and is located at 255 Stafford Street. The Tavern is considered the most historical building in town constructed in 1797. According to the CHS website it is one of the least altered and most documented examples of a wayside tavern of the Federal period in New England also having been visited by the General Marquis de Lafayette in 1824. A militia lot stands across from the Tavern where Lafayette reviewed the local troops during his visit. 

Schoolhouse #2 is also part of the Society’s records and in 2024, according to Town Administrator Andrew Golas, “the town received a grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission to repair the slate roof, exterior siding, and to shore up the foundation as well as structural repairs to the roof.” Period appropriate windows were also to be replaced as necessary. The one-room schoolhouse is the last of district schools under town ownership and was last used in 1949. The schoolhouse bell, circa 1719, was donated by Captain Jesse Smith who served during the American Revolution. 

Currently, the Historical Society has two board openings: Clerk and Archivist and they also welcome new volunteers and members. They would look forward to business sponsors to help defray costs of the newsletters, annual fees for their website, and start-up costs for the summer opening of the Rider Tavern as well as other events. Sponsors will be thanked in all printed materials. If you would like to help with your town’s history, please phone 774-230-5464 and leave a message for Frank Morrill. As a member you will receive their newsletter, event invitations, and your dues will be used to continue the preservation of Charlton’s history. Dues are $20 for individuals and $35 for families with membership renewals beginning in June. The CHS is funded through private and corporate contributions as well as local grants. All contributions are tax deductible. Upcoming events include:  April - meeting at Rider Tavern; May – Tavern Spring Cleaning in preparation for June opening; and in June – Annual Meeting, all are invited. Contact the Charlton Historical Society as follows:  [email protected]   Mail: Charlton Historical Society, P.O. Box 252, Charlton MA 01507.  Their website:  charltonhistoricalsociety.com.