Mill Town Messenger | April 2012

Overview

The newsletter from the Newport Historical Society highlights recent milestones, anniversaries, and community achievements, including the first anniversary of the Nettleton House museum, the 100th anniversary of the Fire Department engine house, and LaValley Building Supply’s 50th anniversary. It reports on museum volunteers, special events, and new gift-shop publications and ornaments for the 2012 season.

Profiles and community recognition feature prominently: Cathryn Baird’s leadership and civic contributions are celebrated, volunteer opportunities and membership information are provided, and invitations to the Nettleton House anniversary open house emphasize local heritage preservation and public engagement.

You can read the online version of the newsletter here.

This quarterly newsletter is generally published in January, April, July and October.

Main Points

• Newport Fire Station Centennial: The Newport Fire Department’s Engine House celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2012, having been constructed in 1912 for $14,500 and still serving the community with various upgrades and additions over the years.
• LaValley Building Supply 50th Anniversary: LaValley Building Supply, started by Harold LaValley in 1962 in Newport, marked its 50th anniversary in 2012, growing from a small family operation to a major employer with nearly 500 employees and multiple locations.
• Nettleton House Museum First Anniversary: The Newport Historical Society celebrated the first anniversary of its Nettleton House Museum on May 14, 2012, including a mortgage payment presentation and exhibit tours.
• Volunteer Contributions: The operations of the Newport Historical Society, including museum staffing and newsletter distribution, rely heavily on dedicated volunteers, with new volunteers encouraged to join.
• Cathryn Baird’s Leadership: Cathryn Baird was honored for her significant contributions to Newport’s historical preservation, community involvement, and leadership as president of the Historical Society, notably increasing membership and leading major projects like the acquisition of Nettleton House and the town’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
• Community Engagement: Residents are encouraged to recognize local history and those who serve the town by participating in events, making donations, and volunteering with the Historical Society.
• Historical Society’s Creative Resourcefulness: Volunteers used donated and thrifted materials to create custom draperies and home-like displays at the Nettleton House, enhancing the museum’s welcoming atmosphere.
• New Historical Publications and Ornaments: The Historical Society introduced new history books and commemorative Christmas ornaments in 2012, including one depicting the firehouse, coincidentally aligning with its centennial.

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