The Sanborn House
Sanborn Reborn
 For Winchester and its History

The Winchester Historical Society takes stewardship for The Sanborn House in 2006 and is committed to restoring not only this beaux-arts style home’s physical structure and details, but instilling it with a new life as our town’s Historical and Cultural Center. Having negotiated a long term lease with the town, the Society's mission is to transform the house and grounds into a vibrant community center, celebrating "heritage, art, culture, and beauty." The goal is to provide a place where the entire community can:

  • explore local history
  • participate in cultural events
  • meet friends and neighbors
  • host celebrations and charity events
  • stage exhibits and displays
  • present lectures and programs
  • conduct research in the Archives and the Society's collections
  • hold meetings
  • rent nonprofit office space
  • stroll through the formal garden or picnic in the park-like grounds
  • point with pride to the Sanborn House Historical and Cultural Center.

The Historical Society has undertaken this project both to create a home for itself and as a service to the Town. Restoration will be financed with a combination of private donations and public grants. Operation of the property as an ongoing community asset will be supported by an endowment and modest user fees.

The Historical Society has already begun to mobilize its fund raising effort and finalize the work plan. This spring, the Town will provide a helping hand by making repairs to halt the deterioration caused by years of neglect. Restoring the architectural integrity of the exterior, updating the interior systems and refinishing the rooms will be the responsibility of the Historical Society.

Although the Historical Society has primary responsibility for the restoration of the house and its adaptation for community use, its efforts will be guided and supported by a number of community groups including

The first publicly visible step toward a restored and active Sanborn House was the signing of the lease on March 20, 2006. Progress will be tracked here, so check back often for updates and links to other resources.