With an exciting historical marker unveiling, the appearance of special guests and clear skies, the 4th annual Medfield History Weekend spearheaded by Medfield Historical Society was a big success. Based on ticketing and feedback from historical group partners, an estimated 500 people enjoyed the various events, tours and activities throughout the three-day period, April 24 to 26.
Jumpstarting the weekend was an exciting unveiling of the historical marker for King Philip’s War to pay homage to the 350th year anniversary of the conflict on Feb. 21, 1676 during which numerous settlers and Indigenous peoples lost their lives, and properties across the town were destroyed. Numerous officials and community members were present for the big event alongside Meetinghouse Pond – more than 50 attendees in total. Special guests from the Hassanamisco Nipmuc Band were on hand to not only see the unveiling, but provide remarks, along with State Representative Josh Tarsky. Society director Joe Opiela, who managed the entire project, introduced local speakers David Temple, representing Medfield Historical Commission, and Town Historian Richard DeSorgher. Medfield Select Board members Pete Peterson, Gus Murby and Eileen Murphy were also present for the gathering.After the marker unveiling, attendees walked past 100 luminary bags placed alongside the pond to a reception at Dwight-Derby House (DDH).
Each bag was inscribed with the name of a historical group or figure in Medfield across six centuries, starting with Indigenous peoples. Any money raised from luminary bag sponsors will go toward the repair fund for the town clock.
At DDH, attendees were welcomed by new Friends of Dwight-Derby House President MaryKate McMaster, followed by remarks by DeSorgher and Town Clerk Marion Bonoldi, leader of the 375th Anniversary & Celebration Committee. The gathering served as both a marker unveiling reception and Medfield History Weekend kick-off, giving community members an opportunity to mingle with kindred spirits – community members who care about Medfield’s historic assets.
The Saturday event line-up featured special one-hour slide presentations by DeSorgher on King Philip’s War, with 2026 marking the 350th anniversary of when the war took place in Medfield on February 21, 1676. Each gathering, held in the historic Meetinghouse, provided attendees with insights on how the war started, key events and tragedies during the conflict, and the significant impact the war had on Indigenous peoples, Medfield residents, and the town’s ultimate survival.
Overlapping with DeSorgher’s talk were clock/steeple tours inside the Meetinghouse led by Co-Keeper of the Town Clock Nick Werthessen. Once again, he led dozens of attendees up into the steeple, providing information along the way about the history of the historic structure and clock, and his duties as a town-appointed clock keeper.
Also on Saturday — within our own Medfield Historical Society Museum — visitors were treated to a special meet and greet with U.S. President John Adams, portrayed by Michael LePage, who engaged attendees in lively 18th-century conversation.
On Sunday, Opiela once again narrated Old Town Trolley tours, giving riders an opportunity to learn about some of the most historic places and landmarks around Medfield. One additional tour feature this year was the chance for riders to learn about “witness houses” – homes that were in place during the American Revolution of 1776. This day also featured the always-popular walking tour of the former Medfield State Hospital (MSH), led by former town-appointed MSH caretaker and current Historical Commission archaeological advisor John Thompson.
An additional Sunday attraction was a talk and book-signing at Dwight-Derby House featuring Medfield native Wally Hersee, author of To Defend All That Is Dear: The Soldiers Who Served Sturbridge. As part of his talk, Hersee helped attendees better understand the connection between Medfield and Sturbridge, which was originally called “New Medfield” due to the migration of many residents to the Central Massachusetts town.
In addition to the sites already mentioned, Peak House Heritage Center, Kingsbury Grist Mill, Lowell Mason House and Medfield Public Library also hosted visitors during the weekend. Each site was supported by volunteers who dedicated many hours to guiding guests, whether by offering a friendly welcome, giving tours, promoting events or preparing for openings.
Medfield TV is in the process of producing a special recap of the April 24 King Philip’s War historical marker unveiling – keep a look out for it on the Medfield TV YouTube channel, with an announcement and link on the Society Facebook page when it is released.
Needham Bank and Wasabi Asian Bistro & Bar were presenting sponsors of this year’s Medfield History Weekend, while Medfield Cultural Council provided a significant grant to help cover weekend expenses.
Net proceeds from Medfield History Weekend benefit the nonprofit historical group partners representing various sites that were open to the public.
