Greetings,
Well, it’s been a little over a year in the executive’s seat. I am grateful for all the new and old friends I have become acquainted (and reacquainted) with this year. Between the volunteers and the staff, we are moving forward with plans to expand education programming, improve the collections storage and organize the special collections (paper collections).
All this would not be possible without your support of time, talent and treasure. Thank you!
As I say so often – your connections to Jamestown matter to the Fenton History Center. We want to know about your family history so we can tell Jamestown’s story to future generations.
Along those lines, this year’s annual fund focus is building on last year’s success.
- We are growing our education programming by hiring an education director in February 2026. A portion of your donations last year helped us leverage a Chautauqua Region Community Foundation grant to support the position.
- Your donations will help us support the collections, the special collections (paper collections) plus the staff and volunteers that keep it safe, organized and searchable. The Fenton collections tell our local story. It is our biggest responsibility.
- In addition to your generous donations, you can further support the Fenton History Center by shopping at our gift shop, which is open year-round. The shop offers a wonderful variety of gifts suitable for all ages and interests, especially during the holiday season. We invite you to stop in and explore the selection—every purchase helps sustain our mission.
As in the past few years, anyone donating $1,000 or more to this appeal will have their name engraved on a plaque that hangs in the Fenton Mansion. If you can’t afford to donate a large sum, consider supporting a few hours of our staff’s time, or buy some archival boxes or folders – in any amount – and you will be recognized, with your permission, on our website and in our newsletter.
Another easy way to support this valuable work is to donate monthly. Visit www.fentonhistorycenter.org/donate and chose the amount that works for your budget.
If you qualify to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) or a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), please consider making a tax-free gift to the Fenton. Talk to your financial advisor about how you can make the most of your donation.
Donate today and don’t forget to renew your membership. If you are not a member, please consider joining us!
Joni Blackman
Executive Director
Thomas Goodwill
President of the Board of Trustees
