The Washington County Historical Society is an educational organization dedicated to engaging diverse audiences in the study and appreciation of the collective heritage of Washington County, New York, and its environs. Its primary purpose is to promote public interest and participation in the preservation of the rich cultural heritage of Washington County, NY. The Heritage Research Library, a repository for regional books, written documents, genealogical information, and memorabilia, and the publication of regional books and annual journals, including those published by the historical society, highlight preservation efforts.

Lectures, workshops, tours and social events are scheduled throughout the year. Society headquarters are situated in the Wing-Northup House, built by entrepreneur Daniel Wood Wing c. 1815. This architecturally significant Federal style house is located in Fort Edward, New York. See map.

In this the 80th Anniversary of the Washington County Historical Society, I am so very excited and honored to serve as your Society President. I look forward to meeting and interacting with you at the many great programs scheduled for the coming year. Please refer to the upcoming programs in this newsletter.

We are planning and working on some exciting changes within the society itself as well. To start with, we will be updating the by-laws to add some clarifications and make them a bit more contemporary. In addition, we will be putting together our new 5-Year Strategic Plan. To begin generating ideas for these goals, we have scheduled a workshop for March 28 starting at 9 AM at the Wing-Northrup house. If you would like to join us, you may let me know or just mark your calendar to attend this workshop. We'd welcome your ideas and involvement.

As times change, and as with many organizations, there is a critical need to develop funding strategies to keep our organization fiscally stable as we look forward and move into the organization's next 80 years. Therefore, we are activating a Development Committee to lead and help with these efforts. We are welcoming ideas, ways and means to generate donations and bequests, access grants and any other fundraising ideas. If you or anyone you know has an interest in participating in this committee for its very important work, please notify a board member. If you only have ideas to share, those are equally welcomed.

The Board is actively discussing creative ways and ideas on how to get more people involved in the society and how we can be more available to the general public. In that spirit, we would like to hear from the membership on suggestions for workshops, programs, online services and any other interactive opportunities.

I look forward to working for and with you in the coming year to accomplish good things together that will have a lasting impression and make sure that the history of Washington County is enjoyed and preserved for generations to come.