Memorial FundsHarold R. Struss Museum Fund
Our Society lost a dear and devoted friend on February 8, 2003 with the passing of Harold R. Struss. Harold was a very active member of our Society, and the community at large, for the 26 plus years he called Amherst home. In remembrance of all his contributions and to help in the continuation of his work, the Society has established a fund to acquire, catalog, conserve, research and interpret historic three-dimensional objects related to Amherst. This fund has been started with the many contributions received in his memory. During his long tenure as Wigwam Curator, Harold did so much to preserve and develop our museums' collections. Combining his love of woodworking and history, he made numerous repairs and improvements to the Wigwam in order to better showcase its many treasures. In his role as Amherst Town Library Trustee, he took on the restoration of the historic library marquee, and is also responsible for the historically accurate exterior lamp post and light in front of the building. In 1999, Harold and his wife Bonnie were named Amherst's Citizens of the Year - a well deserved honor indeed. Through this fund we hope to maintain Harold's exuberance for preserving the past, while preserving his memory in our hearts as well. Jean and Richard Crocker Archives FundSince Jean and Richard Crocker were avid collectors of Amherst memorabilia, the Historical Society deemed it appropriate to establish an Archives Fund in their memory. The purpose of this fund is to acquire, catalog, conserve, research and interpret historic photographs, postcards, maps, ephemera items, bound volumes, manuscripts and newspapers directly related to Amherst, NH. Contributions received by the Society in their memory have been set aside to start this fund. Future donors may designate their gifts in part or whole to be used for this purpose. Jean and Richard were exceptional individuals whose roots are firmly planted in the Amherst community. Jean was a lifelong resident and her husband Richard, although born in Cambridge, MA, moved to Amherst at a very early age. The couple was married at the Congregational Church in 1958, and both were lifetime members of our Society. Over the years, Jean served in a variety of Society Board positions, most recently as Wigwam Curator. An unofficial town historian, she kept a personal library of Amherst history and memorabilia and enjoyed providing information and resources to anyone who asked. Richard served the town as road agent and director of public works for more than 40 years, retiring in 1996. This gave him unparalleled knowledge of the old roads and buildings in town. He was also a member of the Lawrence Engine Company and the Amherst Fire Department for 37 years, retiring as First Assistant Chief. Sadly, Jean and Richard passed away July 31, 2004 and February 7, 2005 respectively. Although their passing leaves an unimaginable void, their selfless contributions to the betterment of the town they both loved will have a ripple effect for years to come.
Donations to these two funds are always welcome. Please send contributions to: Historical Society of Amherst, NH; PO Box 717; Amherst, NH 03031 Member donations may be included with membership renewals.
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