Deep River

Historical Society

Preserving and Celebrating our Legacy

Please note our website is currently being worked on. More pages and content will be coming soon.

Upcoming Events

Meet Frank Santoro as he discusses Deep River’s 19th Century seafaring history.

 

The Deep River Historical Society will host a book talk and signing on March 27th in the Carriage House at 7 pm by Frank Santoro. Frank has already published two books called Deep River Stories and More Deep River Stories. Books will be available at Frank’s talk and can also be obtained at the Deep River Hardware and Celebrations or on Amazon.

Who We Are

Three museums in one…

Deep River Historical Society

The Stone House was built in 1841 from locally-quarried stone. Three generations of the Southworth family called the Stone House their home, where we now display some of their original furnishings as well as donations resonant of that period. The property, which was bequeathed to us from Ada Southworth Munson in 1946, also includes a Carriage House (available for event rentals), a Bleach House from the days of ivory manufacturing, and extensive grounds.

2. Our Collections

In addition to the Southworth bequest of a furnished home, the Deep River Historical Society curates our community’s history through artifacts, documents, maps, diaries, letters, art, and much more. Our rotating exhibits have recently highlighted Deep River’s centuries of industry from wharf to waterfall, contributions to women’s suffrage and activism, and the sacrifices of the men and women of Deep River during World War II. And we are planning more!

3. Our Programs

We provide Deep River with a lively roster of events, including period teas, the strawberry social, antique car shows, and the holiday Festival of Trees, along with year-round, though-provoking talks by authors and residents about local history and its colorful personalities. 

Memberships

Access all exhibitions & program updates

Membership includes a subscription to the Society’s newsletter and free admission to exhibits.

Become a Member

Please note, this society is an independent charitable organization. It receives no town or state funding. Any contribution above basic membership is tax deductible, and is most appreciated.

News & Articles

Harry Tyler’s Gun on Display

Harry Tyler’s Gun on Display

After the closure of Citizens Bank in Deep River, many community members were concerned about the future of Harry Tyler's Winchester Rifle. This rifle was used in the infamous Deep River bank robbery of 1899. Harry Tyler used it to defend the bank, killing the man...

DRHS Covid-19 Update 5-27-20

DRHS Covid-19 Update 5-27-20

The health and well being of our community is the Deep River Historical Society's primary concern. As part of the effort to stop the spread of Covid-19 Coronavirus, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the opening of our new exhibits and canceled upcoming...

Celebrating Notable Women

Celebrating Notable Women

100 Years since the 19th Amendment Deep River's notable women are celebrated with new exhibit at the Historical Society. Pictured left: Daphne Seldon (1917) When the Declaration of Independence was ratified by Congress in 1776 it stated “All men are created equal.”...

Deep River Historical Society’s April Update

Deep River Historical Society’s April Update

The Corona virus has disrupted our spring activities but we are trying to keep a positive attitude.  As the current pandemic seems to be evolving daily, it is the thought of the trusties that dates and times may change as we get closer to our scheduled events....

Thank you to all who visited our Festival of Trees exhibit

Thank you to all who visited our Festival of Trees exhibit

Thank you to all who visited our Festival of Trees exhibit. More than 200 people braved the rain to come out and vote for their favorite tree. It was very difficult this year. Many visitors complained about what a hard time they had with voting as all of the trees...

Merchants Scarecrow Content 2019

Merchants Scarecrow Content 2019

Deep River Historical Society’s talented and creative membership have put together two great submissions for the DR Merchants Scarecrow Contest. Voting is done online. Join us in celebrating Fall.  To Vote On-line Sign in or create an account at the Deep River...