Old Bethlem Historical Society
Old Bethlem Historical Society was established in 1968 to preserveand protect Bethlehem's historical sites and pertinent information.The Old Bethlem Museum was established in 1976 when the society bought from the town the former town office building and fire department. Totally refurbished in 1987, the museum houses a wonderful selection of costumes, tools, and articles used during the late 19th and early 20th century.
The Society's District #1 Schoolhouse, located next to Memorial Hall, was built circa 1850 and has been restored as a living museum. Visitors may sit at authentic period desks and learn about student life in the late 1800s. They may see where student Flossie Box wrote her name on a wall and future philanthropist Argall Hull etched his name into a window pane!
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America 250 ~ Christmas Town
On July 4, 2026, Bethlehem will join cities and towns across the country to celebrate our nation's 250th birthday. A year of celebration has begun and planning continues. We began on April 18, 2025, with "Two Lights for Tomorrow" commemorating the 250th anniversary of the famous April 18, 1775 ride of Paul Revere. A lecture series beginning Sept. 17, 2025 has been planned and topics will cover many aspects of our Nation's founding.
As the sponsor of "America 250 - Christmas Town", Old Bethlem encourages everyone to be involved. Whether it is by joining the America 250 ad-hoc planning committee, by donating to help finance the year-long celebration, or by attending the many events, please take part. Let's make this a truly memorable, enriching experience!
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Old Bethlem Historical Society, Inc. does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, visitors, and supporters.