The Warren Historical Society held its first meeting in eight years on Wednesday, April 16, drawing residents eager to revitalize efforts to preserve the town's heritage.
The local history enthusiasts gathered at the Reta K. Goss Municipal Building on April 16, electing officers and appointing a seven-member board to guide the society's revival. Jim Crafts will serve as president, with Shannon Dunfey Konvicka as vice president, Brent Adams as secretary, and Reta Goss as treasurer. Adams is also Warren’s town clerk. The seven appointed board members include: Reta Goss, Anna Whitlock, Marilynn Gaul, Brent Adams, Shannon Konvicka, Jim Crafts, and Will Desmond.
"We are building upon the foundation laid by those who preceded us," stated Brent Adams, who played a pivotal role in rekindling the historic society's activities. "Our primary objective is to expand membership and to gain a comprehensive understanding of the skills and interests our members possess prior to initiating specific initiatives."
The meeting highlighted the diversity of its attendees, ranging from experienced history lovers to locals with long-standing family ties to Warren. Dorothy Tod shared updates about her upcoming exhibit, developed in partnership with Rootswork, set to take place at the East Warren Community Market. Many participants expressed enthusiasm for getting involved, brainstorming ideas that revolved around their mutual interest in historical mapping and chronicling the town’s evolution since the opening Sugarbush.
During the meeting, Shannon Dunfey Konvicka was introduced as the town’s new historian. She was recently appointed by the Warren Select Board.
"My vision is to weave our rich heritage into the fabric of everyday community life," said Konvicka. "History deserves to be a vibrant part of our daily experiences, bridging the past and present in a way that is welcoming to everyone, particularly those who might not typically engage with a historical society."
Warren, chartered in 1789, was initially centered in what is now East Warren before mill development shifted the town center in the 1820s. Today's historical society aims to honor the past while making history relevant to contemporary residents.
The society will meet on the third Thursday of every month at 6:00 PM in the Reta K. Goss Municipal Building. All interested residents are encouraged to attend.
The mission of the historical society is as follows:
The Warren Historical Society is dedicated to discovering, collecting, and preserving materials that establish and illustrate the history of Warren, Vermont. The society aims to make local history accessible to all community members through educational programs, exhibits, and publications.
