Program areas at Little Compton Historical Society
Museum Program: The organization collects, preserves, and presents early landmarks of historical significance to the Town of Little Compton for the education and enrichment of the community. LCHS maintains historic buildings including Wilbor House, Friends Meeting House, Archival Barn,19th Century Barn, 19th Century Carriage House, Peggotty Artist Studio, Peaked Top School, Corn Crib, Privy, and the Chicken Food Cookhouse. The collection includes approximately 13,000 objects, photos, and documents relating to the history of Little Compton.
Inspired Crafts was our theme for 2023. It included an exhibit and a large number of hands-on programs for children and adults giving people the opportunity to practice traditional crafts. We estimate that 2500 people enjoyed the exhibit and took part in our classes.
The Sakonnet History project is a multiyear project, now in its research phase, and scheduled to go public-facing in the fall of 2024. In 2023 LCHS spoke about the project the Dublin Seminar, wrote two essays for academic journals, continued our research, built relationships with Wampanoag consultants and undertook a major fundraising campaign. The estimated audience for this project in 2023 is 500 people.
The Archaeological Dig (Wilbor House Trench) recovered and analyzed thousands of artifacts in the back yard of the Wilbor House Museum dating from the 17th century to the 21st century and coming from as far away as China. Much of this work was done by volunteers and staff but we did consult with the archaeologists at The Public Archaeology Lab to analyze many of the materials. We also led a number of public digging days at special events. The estimated audience for this project is 400 in person and several thousand online because of social media posts. The Archaeological Dig (Church-Collins-Nicholson Property) In 2022 we did the final analysis of materials retrieved from this 2021 archaeological dig. This project involved the local 8th grade class and provided information for the Historic House Tour. Its estimated in person audience is 100 people and its online audience numbered in the thousands.
Education Program: The organization runs youth summer camps, school programs, and adult programs that serve to educate the community about the history of Little Compton. The education program serves approximately 500 participants per year.