Statement Of Purpose:
To preserve and protect Bethlehem's historical sites and pertinent information.

Old Bethlem Historical Society was established in 1968 to promote and preserve Bethlehem's history. The Old Bethlem Museum was established in 1976 when the society bought from the town the former town office building and fire department. This 1941 brick building was designed by resident George Hatch and built on the foundation of the Methodist Church built in 1840 (which was razed in 1929.) Totally refurbished in 1987 for the Bethlehem Bicentennial, the museum houses an assemblage of costumes, tools, and articles used during the late 19th and early 20th century. Of special note is the large church bell on the front lawn and the stones which edge the lower parking lot. They were saved, by the Root family, from the Methodist Church. The Roots, recognizing the historic significance of these artifacts, donated the stones and bell to the Society in 1976. The bell, which has an excellent resonance, is rung for special occasions.

A tour of the Museum may be pleasantly combined with a picnic on the Green, lunch at one of Bethlehem's restaurants, a visit to the Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden (which is across the street) and a drive through the Litchfield Hills. Special Group Tours may be arranged in advance by writing to the Old Bethlem Historical Society, Inc. PO Box 132, Bethlehem, Ct 06751, or you may telephone (203) 266-5196 Tours take approximately one-half hour.

District #1 Schoolhouse is open during the Christmas Town Festival the first weekend in December and before and after the Memorial Day Parade. Both society buildings, the museum and the schoolhouse, are open any time by appointment by calling 266-5196 or 266-7761 and leaving a message. The District #1 Schoolhouse was built in circa 1850 and was one of eight in Bethlehem. Later the town's library and a storeroom for the Christ Episcopal Church, the society has restored the building to be used as a living museum