Laconia Historical & Museum Society marks milestone year at Annual Meeting

LACONIA ― The Laconia Historical & Museum Society held its Annual Meeting on Feb. 17 at The Archives in Laconia, welcoming members and guests to reflect on a year of growth and share plans for the year ahead.

Last year was a milestone year with the August opening of The Archives, LHMS’s new museum, which has flourished thanks to dedicated volunteers. The Society also completed a major roof repair to better protect the building and the city’s collections.

Community programs and events — including the Irish Brew Tasting, History Happened Here walking and food tour, the sold-out cemetery tour, the first Trivia Live event, and a full-house performance by the New England Irish Harp Orchestra — drew strong participation throughout the year.

Ongoing building needs remain a priority. Phase 2 of the Protect the Collections Campaign will focus on critical brick repair and full repointing to address deterioration and safeguard artifacts and archives. Collections work and new exhibit initiatives are also progressing steadily.

Board leadership was recognized, with thanks extended to outgoing board member Lynn Brody for her dedicated service. Members elected to the 2026–2027 Board of Directors are Marie Leahy, Charlene Harkness, Raymond Peavey Jr., Ethan Wood, Tara Shore, Pamela Clark, and Warren Huse.

The Warren D. Huse Honorary Laconia High School Student Membership was awarded to Jacob Tryon, a hardworking student recognized for academic excellence in social studies, participation in National History Day with a project on the Laconia State School, and his positive contributions to his school community.

Looking ahead, 2026 will feature programming highlighting Laconia’s Native American heritage, returning community favorites, the new Sunday Series programs, and a special July 4 celebration to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary.