From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society

In the early days of the conflict between the American colonies and Great Britain, there was no great push for an actual split from the mother country. Trouble began in 1761, after King George III (shown here) was installed on the throne and he issued a “writ of assistance”. For many years, Britain had neglected […] Read more »

Reading Frederick Douglass Together

The Marion Art Center will present a public reading of Frederick Douglass’s 1852 speech What to the Slave is the Fourth of July? A diverse group of readers from the South Coast region will read an abridged version of Douglass’s famous speech. Audience members are invited to join the community conversation led by guest scholar […] Read more »

July at the Rochester Historical Museum

In preparation for Freedom Bells on July 4th, Russ and Wendy Keeler climbed into the attic of the museum formerly known as the East Rochester Congregational Church and oiled and greased our bell that was cast in 1872. It rings (we’re not sure what the bats in the belfry thought about that). We’re encouraging people […] Read more »

From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society

Sometimes when looking through the many files collected by the Rochester Historical Society, serendipity occurs. I came across an old article entitled “Rochester Was Old When United States Was a Mere Infant.” This is not just a talking point but an actual fact. While the United States is celebrating its 250th birthday, Rochester reached 340 […] Read more »

MRECo Welcomes Summer Interns

The Marine Renewable Energy Collaborative (MRECo) is pleased to welcome its Summer 2026 interns Parker Darphin, Alan Schneider, and Jillian Yang who will support the organization’s marine renewable energy initiatives, technology development, and outreach efforts throughout the summer.             MRECo’s internship program provides students and recent graduates with hands-on experience in ocean technology, engineering, and […] Read more »

Donation Days at the Elizabeth Taber Library

It’s time to clean out your old books to make way for new ones. The Friends of the Elizabeth Taber Library are seeking donations on the following days for our huge upcoming summer book sale: Saturday, June 20, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm; Saturday, June 27, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm; Saturday, July 11, 10:00 […] Read more »

Silvershell Beach Opening Day

Silvershell Beach officially opens for the summer season on Saturday, June 20, with seasonal lifeguards on duty through late August.             Parking Stickers are required and are available for Marion and Rochester residents. Marion residents must purchase stickers at the Marion Town House Annex in the Clerk’s Office. Rochester Residents must purchase their stickers at […] Read more »

Marion Seeks Input to Help Shape Future of Harbor and Waterways

            The Town of Marion is inviting residents, boaters, waterfront property owners, business owners, fishermen and visitors to help shape the future of the community’s harbor and waterways by participating in a public survey as part of the Marion Harbor Management Plan.             The Town is currently developing a community-driven Harbor Management Plan that will […] Read more »

Elizabeth Taber Library Summer Reading

Summer Reading at the Elizabeth Taber Library begins on Monday, June 22, with our Summer Kickoff event between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm. Kids of all ages can sign up for summer reading, enjoy a sweet treat, and participate in activities from the Library and the Marion Art Center.             Sign up for our summer […] Read more »

Declaration & Dialogue: Reflections on 250 Years

The deadline for entry to the MAC’s juried show Declaration & Dialogue has been extended to June 22. The show will soft open on July 10th, with an artists’ reception on Friday, July 17, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Early submissions include works by John Magnan, Keith Maddy, Gayle Wells Mandle, Nancy Dyer Mitton, […] Read more »