Wistariahurst Museum is honoring the 150th Anniversary of this historic building’s relocation to City of Holyoke which occurred in 1874. This fall, we invite guests to participate in our Legacy Seminar Series to learn more about events, exhibits and structures which have impacted the building, the community and the arts.

On September 17th, Elizabeth Sharpe, the author of “In the Shadow of the Dam: The Aftermath of the Mill River Flood of 1874,” will discuss the the flood of 1874 and the events that led up to that tragic event. The incident claimed 139 lives and wiped out four mill villages in the area and marked the first significant dam failure in the United States. The aftermath saw William Skinner relocating his silk factory to Holyoke, while the affected villages began the process of rebuilding. Sharpe will delve into the disaster’s impact, the challenges faced in the aftermath, the investigation to determine accountability, and the pursuit of compensation.

Whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer eager to learn more about the place you now call home, these seminars provide a perfect opportunity to connect with the past and understand how it influences our present and future. Most importantly, our Legacy Seminar Series is free and open to the public during event hours so that all can explore, discover, and engage with these unique topics.