The Museum’s survival depends on having items to exhibit. We invite you to donate or loan your historically significant artifacts from Westford, such as photographs, letters, clothing, and tools. We can scan photos and return the originals to you if you prefer.
Each year, the Museum presents two to three significant exhibits and several minor displays highlighting the history shaping Westford’s wealth, communications, population, and landscape. I would like to thank you for your contributions to these exhibits.
Some things are free—and priceless! Your memories of Westford’s past, shared with current residents, are invaluable. Please contact us to arrange an interview.
Museum Restoration Project
In July 2011, the Westford Historical Society, with funding from the Conservation Assessment Program (CAP) provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Heritage Preservation, hired Finch & Rose to assess the physical condition of the Museum buildings. This initiative aimed to conduct a historical structure assessment, which would enable the Museum to pursue grants to secure necessary funds for enhancing its value to the community.
For two intensive days, Bill Finch examined the condition of the two buildings. He climbed ladders, removed clapboards, and inspected various elements including masonry, roofing, trim, exterior paint, windows, doors, and structural framing, from the basement to the cupola. The findings from this assessment were compiled into a comprehensive 64-page report that included a prioritized list of recommended remedial actions, supported by illustrative photographs.
The report from Finch & Rose served as the foundation for the town’s engineering department to establish a restoration project. This preservation effort is justified by the historical significance of the Museum, which housed the Westford Academy from 1794 to 1897, until the Academy relocated to the new Roudenbush building. Our Museum is one of very few surviving original school buildings in the United States.
In September 2012, the Westford Historical Commission sponsored a 3D scan of the Museum building. Photos and a simulated fly-through can be viewed on the WHC website.
The architectural firm Adams & Smith developed restoration plans for the museum. These plans were approved and submitted to contractors for bidding. Once the bidding results were received, the matter was brought before the Town Meeting, where it was also approved.
For additional information about the work of the Westford Historical Commission (WHC), please visit its website. Heritage Preservation provides further details on the Certified Local Government (CLG) program.
The restoration project will enable the museum to continue sharing Westford’s historical stories through its exhibits and archives for many more years to come.