The Amenia Historical Society was formed in the 1960’s by a group of town citizens interested in preserving Amenia’s long and rich history.

     The mission of the organization has been to uncover and collect documents, photos and memorabilia of historical significance to this local area and to promote community interest in the Amenia’s past.

     Over the years the Society has assembled archival material such as local family genealogies, vintage photographs, written records, books and articles that tell the story of Amenia and its people.

     Other than the annual meeting prescribed by the by-laws, there are no regularly scheduled meetings. Periodic meetings are held as members research and develop presentations on specific subjects. Typical of these events are Smithfield – talk and tour of the historic church and cemetery, Perry’s Corners – lecture and PowerPoint presentation by Betsy Strauss, Button talk at South Amenia given by the late John Whiteford, and the Civil War presentation with members of the Dutchess County 150th Regiment reinactors at Maplebrook School with a paper on the Civil War read by John Quinn.

     The periodic newsletter is designed to stir members’ interest and involvement. The newsletter is published on-line and in hard copy. Many requests for information are answered by e-mail, both genealogical requests and questions about local sites and events.

     The outreach displays by members in Amenia Town Hall, the Wassaic Firehouse, the Post Offices of Amenia and Wassaic, and M & T Bank in Amenia are intended to foster community enthusiasm about local history.