Welcome To The Manlius Historical Society
"Serving the Town of Manlius Since 1976"
As we begin a new year in 2010, we’re counting our blessings at the Manlius Historical Society. Not only have we been able to maintain our services to the community in a time of national economic crisis, but we’ve done so while continuing to offer free admission to the Manlius Historical Museum and continuing to host a wide variety of educational programs and exhibitions to appeal to audiences across Central New York.
We could not achieve this mission without financial support from our neighbors and community members. We sincerely ask that you consider supporting the Manlius Historical Society, an organization dedicated to preserving the history of the entire Town of Manlius, including the Villages of Fayetteville, Manlius, and Minoa.
Since 1976, the Manlius Historical Society has operated a local history museum that is now a foundation of the Town of Manlius community. As the Greater Manlius Chamber of Commerce adopts the slogan, “where history meets promise,” we can be proud that our historical society is the primary keeper of that history for town residents. Our Cheney House Research Center hosts visitors from near and far who are searching for information on ancestors and historic landmarks in the town.
We feel especially grateful in 2009 that we are able to offer these services, but we can’t do it without your support. We hope that you will consider becoming a member, making a monetary donation, signing up to volunteer, and/or spreading the word to your neighbors, family members, and friends . Please give what you can. Financial support and volunteer commitment are absolutely essential to the continuation of operations at both the Cheney House Research Center and the Manlius Historical Museum, as well as the continued preservation of thousands of community artifacts.
What’s coming for 2010? The Exhibit Committee is deep in discussion for plans for a 2010 Exhibit Schedule at the Museum. Plans are also underway to offer a Restoration Speakers Series at our Annual Antique Show, to be held April 10-11, 2010. We are also in discussion with speakers and authors in hopes of bringing fresh ideas and engaging topics to the Town of Manlius for both enjoyment and education.
If you have any questions about our services to the community, please call the office at (315) 682-6660. Together, we can continue in our mission to preserve the history of the Town of Manlius.
Gratefully,
Elizabeth A. Smith
Executive Director
OUR MISSION
The Manlius Historical Society exists to preserve and foster an appreciation of the history and heritage of Central New York, with special emphasis on the Town of Manlius, New York.
The society owns and operates two buildings, the Cheney House Research Center and the Manlius Historical Museum.
Phone: 315-682-6660
Email: MHSDirector@aol.com
Executive Director: Elizabeth A. Smith
Cheney House Research Center
109 Pleasant Street, Manlius, NY 13104
In 1978, this late 1920s bungalow was donated to the society by the Cheney family. It contains the Channing Soule Memorial Library, the office, collections storage, and research and meeting space. The library has over 500 volumes and more than 8,000 documents and photographs related to local history. Collections include artifacts produced locally, such as L. & J.G. Stickley furniture and Cheney iron products. Toys, country store artifacts, household items used locally, artwork, clothing, and textiles are also among the society's collections.
Due to limited staff availability, please call ahead to make a research appointment.
Tuesday - Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday morning, by appointment
Manlius Historical Museum
101 Scoville Avenue, Manlius, NY 13104
This 1920s bungalow on the corner of Smith and Scoville Strees was donated to the society by the local school district in 1976. Its largest room offers rotating temporary exhibits each year, which focus on local history. Permanant displays include a country kitchen, a general school, a school room, and an authentic working blacksmith shop. Volunteer blacksmiths often work at the forge during the museum's open hours.
Saturdays, 11am to 3pm (seasonally)
Special and group tours available upon request.
More details, click here.
Programs and Events
To stay updated on the society's activities, become a member! You will recieve a subscription to The Seraph, the society's quarterly newsletter, as well as special invitiation to programs and events. Please click here for more information.
Director Elizabeth A. Smith stands next to our new free-standing sign at the sign dedication on May 3. See upcoming events by clicking here.
MHS Trustee Barbara Brown (right) recently presented Margot Burke with a plaque recognizing Margot's outstanding service and dedication to the Manlius Historical Society.