Preserving History The Future of the Peter H Peirce Homestead in Middleborough

The Peter H. Peirce Homestead has long been a cornerstone of the Middleborough community, particularly known as the Law Office of Decas, Murray, and Decas. In June 2024, a significant transition occurred when the house was transferred from the Estate of Attorney William C. Decas to the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library. This change opens a new chapter for the homestead, promising to honor its rich history while paving the way for future community engagement.

The Board of Directors for the Homestead expresses deep gratitude for Attorney George C. Decas, who played a crucial role in saving this historic asset from potential demolition in the mid-1990s. His dedication to preserving the homestead allows the community to benefit from this landmark. The Board also acknowledges the late Attorney William C. Decas for entrusting the nonprofit with the stewardship of the homestead, ensuring that it remains a valued community asset in Historic Downtown Middleborough.

A Legacy of Preservation

George C. Decas, who graduated from Wareham High School, Yale College, and the University of Pennsylvania Law School, has a rich history in the legal field. He was admitted to the Massachusetts Bar in 1962 and maintained law offices in Wareham and Middleborough until his retirement in 2003. Over his 41-year career, he played a role as Middleborough Town Counsel for 36 years. His involvement in local historical restoration exemplified his commitment to the community, particularly through the restoration of Col. Peter H. Peirce House—once the residence and law office of the town's most successful merchant of the 19th century.

Mr. Decas dedicated 26 years to researching and authoring the book Col. Peter H. Peirce (1788-1861) - a Plymouth County Life. This book highlights Peirce's significance while offering insights into the timeline of Middleborough's development. The homestead itself stands as a physical representation of this important history, making its preservation essential for educating future generations.

Looking Back at the Past

To truly understand the significance of the Peter H. Peirce Homestead, it's essential to acknowledge its history. Col. Peter H. Peirce was a key figure in Middleborough. His business ventures helped shape the town, making the homestead a vital part of the area’s architectural and cultural identity.

Peirce was also involved in local governance, which contributed to his legacy as a pillar of the community. His contributions went beyond business; he played a role in establishing educational institutions in the area. The homestead serves as a reminder of the lifestyle and values of the early 19th century, providing a crucial link to Middleborough's past.

A New Era for the Homestead

With the transfer of the homestead to the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library, a promising new era begins. The Board is committed to ensuring that the homestead supports community growth through educational programs and services. They plan to maintain the homestead while exploring new opportunities for engagement.

The Friends envision the homestead as a vibrant hub for community activities. This space will host educational programs and historical exhibitions, creating an environment that fosters appreciation for local heritage. Their vision aligns with the library's goals of enhancing community services and promoting lifelong learning, with plans to increase library usage, which currently stands at over 60% among local residents.

Engaging the Community through Education

A major goal of the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library is to engage the local community meaningfully. The homestead will be a venue for workshops, lectures, and events focused on local history and culture. Collaborations with local historians, educators, and community leaders are a priority. Together, they aim to develop dynamic programs that attract various audiences.

Moreover, local students will benefit from educational opportunities. The Friends plan to offer field trips, interactive exhibits, and special events tailored to bring history to life. Such initiatives not only deepen students' connections to their community's history but also foster a love for learning. Last year, similar programs in neighboring towns increased student participation by 25%.

Preserving the Homestead's Integrity

As caretakers of the Peter H. Peirce Homestead, the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library prioritize preserving its integrity. The Board is dedicated to maintaining the homestead’s historical features while updating it for safety and accessibility.

Restoration efforts will adhere strictly to historical accuracy, ensuring changes respect the original architecture. This approach honors Col. Peter H. Peirce's legacy and reinforces the community's commitment to preserving its history for future generations. Local craftsmen and conservators will lead restoration work, aiming for a 90% restoration success rate based on similar projects.

Community Support and Volunteerism

The success of the homestead’s future depends on community support and active volunteer involvement. The Friends of the Middleborough Public Library welcome individuals passionate about history and engagement to join their initiatives. Volunteers can help in many ways, from event coordination to assisting with restoration projects.

Community support is critical for securing funding for these ongoing efforts. The Friends will pursue grants, organize fundraising events, and build partnerships with local businesses. By mobilizing resources, they aim to ensure the homestead remains a vital asset for the community.

Shaping Tomorrow's Heritage

As the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library embark on this new journey with the Peter H. Peirce Homestead, the outlook is bright. The Board is eager about the potential for the homestead to become a center for community engagement and education.

By fostering a sense of ownership within the community, the Friends hope to create a space that honors the past while inspiring future generations. The homestead will be not just a reminder of Middleborough's rich history but also a platform for ongoing learning and exploration.

Looking Forward with Hope

The transfer of the Peter H. Peirce Homestead to the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library represents a significant milestone in local history preservation. With dedication from the Board and support from the community, the homestead is set to become a valuable resource for education and engagement.

As we look toward the future, we must recognize the importance of preserving our history. The Peter H. Peirce Homestead is a testament to the heritage of Middleborough, and with continued stewardship, this legacy will endure for generations.

The Peter H. Peirce Homestead, a historic landmark in Middleborough

The journey of the Peter H. Peirce Homestead is just beginning. The community's involvement will be crucial in shaping its future. Together, we can ensure that this historic asset remains a cherished part of Middleborough's identity, enhancing our understanding of and appreciation for our shared heritage.