Historical societies weave into the rich tapestry of various meaningful events. They form a pivotal part of the continuation and appreciation for those who came before and serve as a moral compass for future generations. Organizations like the Florida Historical Society help create stronger community bonds and tell members’ stories.
Starting a historical society and earning grant money takes a bit of dedication, but the remarkable impact makes it a worthwhile journey.
How to Start a Historical Society
Use the following steps as a guide when establishing a historical organization:
1. Gather a Group of Like-Minded History Enthusiasts
Firstly, it’s vital to have a group of people as enthusiastic about preserving historical events or monuments as you are. These individuals will be motivated to action by a series of events, such as the acquisition of historical artifacts or showing appreciation for a specific commemoration.
Secure a board of directors from the group. These directors can be:
- People with exemplary knowledge.
- Those who come from a lineage of the historical matter that forms your society.
- Those who want to contribute financially.
Once you have a group of passionate people and outstanding leaders, you can move on to the more intricate steps.
2. Devise a Statement of Purpose
A clear statement of purpose is at the core of every prosperous historical society. Ensure the statement is inclusive and balanced so it doesn’t turn people away from your program. It will also be easier to receive funding when it’s all-embracing and distinct.
Similar to the statement of purpose for The Historical Society, Inc. of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow, your statement of purpose should include the following characteristics:
- A concise statement about what your organization does
- The date on which your organization was founded
- The key founding members
- The major operation units
- The audience your society serves
- The purpose and reasons your society exists
- The methods by which your society hopes to achieve its purpose
3. Choose the Right Time
Consider the timing when planning your historic organization. Choose a time when no other festivities — like summer festivals or Christmas — are going on.
Use good judgment when launching your historical society, as first impressions count. Additionally, consider the community mood. For instance, if the district just suffered a loss, it would be insensitive to launch a historical society unless it pertains to the loss.
4. Draw in Members
Once you’ve selected directors and the best time to launch, it’s time to plan the first meeting. What activities will you include in your program? How will you get people interested? Typically, one of the directors or the chairperson will explain your society’s statement of purpose to the audience. This tells people your organization’s objective and how they can join.
The aim is to stir enthusiasm in the crowd so people will want to join. Let the audience know how your organization will improve the community. Emphasize the importance of commemorating a particular historical event.
One way to draw people in is to gain publicity. Contact the local radio station or put up posters in the library. Obtain the support of local authorities and well-known community members. Engage with leaders of other historical, charitable or religious organizations and encourage them to attend.
5. Create an Inclusive Membership Board
If history has taught us anything, it’s that we can achieve greatness when we work together. Inclusivity is at the heart of historical societies. Invite people of all demographics to join. While your subject matter might not be for everyone, it should not be exclusive to only one group of people. The broader your demographic, the more insight you’ll achieve and the stronger your historical society will be.
6. Construct an Organizational Committee
The chairperson should select a committee to handle important affairs, like recording the details of new members, selecting meeting venues and determining the costs involved. The most crucial role of this committee is to draw up the rules that govern the society. They should also handle work shifts when you’re not available. Some of their other duties may include:
- Planning lectures.
- Constructing exhibitions.
- Creating exciting events.
- Meeting with community leaders.
7. Register as a Nonprofit Organization
A critical step in learning how to start a nonprofit organization is understanding the importance of registering as one. Historical societies are the most numerous of all nonprofit humanities organizations. What are the benefits of registering as a nonprofit?
The private assets owned by nonprofit founders are shielded from courts and creditors. However, the nonprofit organization also holds a legal identity that transcends its founders so it can endure for generations to come. This means that your historical society could last for years. Donors are likelier to commit to organizations they foresee will be around for longer, so registering would attract more donors.
Nonprofits fall under the 501(c)(3) federal corporate income tax exemption, so they are exempt from local and state tax laws. This increases the chances of achieving donors, as they’re more likely to donate to organizations to help lower their tax liabilities.
How Can You Retain and Gain New Members?
A key part of running historical organizations is expanding the membership board. However, you must also focus on retaining current members by showing gratitude for their assistance. As the society grows, committee members may choose to split up into different committees handling various facets, from historic sites and museums to fundraising and membership.
Determining how to grow a historical society depends on your state. For instance, the Texas State Historical Association (TSHA) has published the Southwestern Historical Quarterly (SHQ) since 1897. Available at public and private libraries throughout the state, this journal is an excellent way to attract new members and interest in Texas’s deep history.
What Are the Benefits of a Historical Society?
Historic organizations offer many benefits for members and the general public. They reflect on the past and raise awareness about important issues.
Starting a historical society can make a significant difference in your community. Members can earn money by selling gifts or writing state history textbooks. The funds can be used to improve sites and attract new members. The society is also eligible for grants, which can be used to:
- Build monuments.
- Create historical roadside markers rich in local history.
- Form plaque programs to commemorate historically significant areas, allowing local history to live on for generations.
Historical societies can get approval from various grant programs. One example is the National Register Signage Grant Program, which provides grants for plaques so societies can have a physical representation to commemorate special events and persons. Keep America Beautiful® (KAB) is another well-known grant provider. They help organizations that want to create clean, green and beautiful neighborhoods.
Represent Your Historical Society With Erie Landmark
At Erie Landmark Company, we have been casting history since 1937. We understand the value of historical societies to communities. That’s why we offer every Historic Plaque Program an automatic 15% discount. When you contact us, you’ll talk to one of our passionate staff members who cares deeply about helping you create the plaque that resonates with you.
We cast all of our plaques, adding a personalized touch that honors the plaque’s purpose. Thanks to our meticulous process, our products last as long as history itself. Our bronze casings can last forever and will likely remain an undying reminder of your historical society’s works. Check out our selection of aluminum and bronze historical markers, then contact us for more information about our services.