Preserving the History of the Lost Towns of the Quabbin Valley
The Historical Society for the Towns of Dana, Enfield, Greenwich and Prescott
We are the leading resource in preserving the artifacts, stories and records of the lost towns of the Quabbin Valley. We collaborate with communities, organizations and agencies to provide educational opportunities and programs about the history of this region.
We welcome everyone who appreciates the Quabbin and all it brings to the region. Although of primary importance, we do not just hold the records and memories of the four lost towns of Greenwich, Dana, Enfield and Prescott. SRVHS has a voice in how the watershed is managed and in how the Commonwealth manages the water supply.
For a glimpse into the life of each of the four lost villages, visit the Whitaker-Clary House, Prescott Church Museum, and Carriage Shed at the historical society’s site.
Wednesday, June 17, 1-4 p.m.
MUSEUM OPENING DAY
Sunday, June 28, 1 p.m.
FIRING UP 225 CANDLES
Join photographer Peter Peirce for a slideshow marking the 225th anniversary of Dana, Massachusetts
Sunday, July 12, 1:30 p.m.
WOMEN OF ’76
Presented by Rita Parisi. A powerful solo theatrical performance that brings to life the remarkable women of the American Revolution
Sunday, July 12, 1:30 p.m.
WOMEN OF ’76
Presented by Rita Parisi. A powerful solo theatrical performance that brings to life the remarkable women of the American Revolution
Visit the Museum
We are located at 40 Elm Street in the village of North New Salem, just west of Rt. 202. The Museum is open to the public on Wednesdays and Sundays from 1 – 4 PM from mid-June to mid-September. Admission to the museum is free.
SRVHS Events
Join us this season for a wide variety of special events, including hikes, tours, commemorations and more. Take a look at our list of events–there's something for everyone!
"Journey into Quabbin Reservoir’s Hidden Past"
An interview with Elena Palladino, author of the book Lost Towns of the Swift River Valley, from Harvard Magazine, October 2023.
The New Salem Guideboard History
The New Salem Guideboard was built in 1886 by Porter Eaton and sat at the five corners near the center of town. Read about the guideboard’s history in a piece by Mason Colby.
SRVHS Board News
The SRVHS Board of Directors Announces the successful sale of a seventeenth century artifact, the Symon and Rebeckah Horne Pilgrim Century valuables cabinet.
Our Collection
Nearly every object in the museum's collection has been donated by families of the nearby villages and four "lost" towns--or their descendents.
Your Support Counts!
The Swift River Valley Historical Society relies on the generous support of individuals like you. Your contributions help ensure that SRVHS remains an important historical resource now and for future generations.