A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
March 2013
Bristol Historical Society Annual Campaign Underway
The Bristol Historical Society has announced that its 2012-13 Annual Campaign is underway. This annual appeal, directed to community individuals, businesses and organizations, assists in supporting the numerous activities of the Society.
Since taking possession in 2002 of the first Bristol High School, built in 1890, the Bristol Historical Society has invested over $850,000 in necessary remodeling and safety code upgrades. This magnificent structure was allowed to deteriorate and was vacant prior to its acquisition by BHS. Through the society’s diligence and aggressive pursuits of grants, this oldest public structure in the city, with its majestic architectural design and elegance in structure, remains as a gem on Federal Hill.
Capital expenditures such as exterior brick work, a roof replacement and finally the completion of the water damaged second floor are future anticipated expenses. The financing for these projects is acquired through bequests, grants and generous donations given by community benefactors and businesses. Extensive brick work was completed in the Fall of 2012 with more to be completed this spring. It is anticipated, if adequate funding is available, that the roof project will take place in the Spring of 2014.
The Annual Campaign, however, is dedicated to supplementing membership fees and revenue acquired through a variety of BHS community programs. Operating expenses such as oil, electricity and insurance costs continue to escalate. In order to sustain our community outreach efforts, continue educational assistance to the public and private school system, work in coordination with the other local museums and to serve as a cultural, historic and research center, we are asking the Bristol community to financially assist us to the extent possible. The Bristol Historical Society takes its mission seriously of promoting an interest in local history and encouraging an appreciation for its importance through community outreach. We are sure that the Bristol community values the rich fabric of Bristol’s history through the recording, maintenance and dissemination of our past history which is entrusted to the Bristol Historical Society. In collaboration with the Bristol Sports Hall of Fame and the Memorial Military Museum, Bristol’s sports legends and military history are also showcased at our facility.
Please assist us in fulfilling our mission and showing your appreciation and commitment to the efforts of the Bristol Historical Society.
Many employers such as Aetna, Cigna, and General Electric offer matching grant opportunities. Please check with the Human Resource Office at your place of employment.
Tax-deductible donations can be made to the: Bristol Historical Society /Annual Campaign and mailed to:
The Bristol Historical Society
P.O. Box 1393
Bristol, Ct. 06010
Donations can also be made by online.
Thank you for your support!
Tom Dickau, President
Bristol Historical Society
