From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society

After writing about the dances at Dewey Park, I started to think about how important dances have been to the Rochester community and its residents, especially young people. In the mid to late 1800’s, some of the places where teenagers (I don’t think they called them that back then) could socialize were harvest festivals or […] Read more »

Mattapoisett Woman’s Club Invites New Members

The Mattapoisett Woman’s Club invites local women who are interested in learning more about club membership to its ‘welcome’ luncheon on Thursday, September 18 at 11:00 am in Reynard Hall at the Mattapoisett Congregational Church. Whether you are new to the area, a new mom, a stay-at-home mom, or newly retired, you are welcome to […] Read more »

Jimmy Fund Walk

Eight residents from Rochester will participate in the 2025 Jimmy Fund Walk Sunday, October 5.             Donna Tocci, Kathy Shea, Lisa Pelletier, Michelle Munroe, Brenda Spearin, Denis Pelletier, Steph Galary, and Mia Galary along with thousands of other walkers, will participate in the iconic annual event that will unite the community to raise funds to […] Read more »

Mattapoisett Rail Trail

The Mattapoisett Rail Trail just received another embellishment on September 10. A new bronze plaque on the bridge over the Mattapoisett River recognizes Old Colony Regional Vo Tech High School, The Community Preservation Committee, the Town of Mattapoisett, the Friends of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail, and The Bike Path Committee for the extraordinary collaboration that […] Read more »

Mattapoisett Library Children’s Department

After a very busy summer, we are excited to share our upcoming fall events.             Next week we have a stress ball workshop for ages 8 and up on Thursday, September 25, from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm. We will be using colorful balloons to make stress balls, which are perfect for squeezing during anxious […] Read more »

Happening at the Rochester Historical Society

On September 17 at 7:00 pm, the Rochester Historical Society meeting at 355 County Road, Rochester will feature a talk by Bruce Bassett. This isn’t Bruce’s first trip to Rochester, as he was here a year ago for a ceremony by the Sons of the American Revolution to honor his ancestor, Thomas Bassett. He will […] Read more »

Mattapoisett Cultural Council

Mattapoisett Cultural Council invites grant proposals for community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs until October 16 at massculturalcouncil.org/communities/local-cultural-council-program/application-process/. Grants are available to support cultural projects and activities in and around Mattapoisett — including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies or performances in schools, workshops, and lectures. These programs promote the availability of rich cultural […] Read more »

Showstoppers Performance Troupe Seeking Local Talent

The Showstoppers community-service singing troupe is seeking talented youth for its 24th season. Boys and girls in grades 2 to 12 with singing ability are encouraged to apply.             Candidates are asked to submit 2 audition videos, one ballad and one upbeat song, for review. Call backs will be in person by appointment. Submissions do […] Read more »

New Director of Guidance and Student Services

Superintendent Michael S. Nelson is pleased to announce that Christina Cioffi has been appointed as the Old Rochester Regional School District’s new Director of Guidance and Student Services for grades 7-12.             Cioffi stepped into the role effective August 20.             Cioffi, who earned a Master of Social Work at Simmons University, has spent the […] Read more »

From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society

Several years ago, when the Historical Society was celebrating its 50th anniversary of incorporation, I mentioned that at some of their meetings (held at member’s homes before there was a museum) older members told stories about their pasts. One that was briefly mentioned was told by my grandfather, Jim Hartley, and it took place at […] Read more »