Discover the remarkable story of Opendore and its evolution from a center of social reform in the early 20th century to a derelict building in the 1990s, and ultimately to its restoration as an active museum and community center.

Join us in celebrating the 199th birthday of Emily Howland, whose extraordinary legacy of social reform, education, suffrage, abolition, and the pursuit of equal rights continues to inspire us. In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, we will also dedicate a newly planted white pine—a living symbol of hope for peace, understanding, and goodwill among all people.

Howland Stone Store Historian Larry Bell will explore the Howland family of Sherwood and their influential roles in the suffrage movement, abolition, and the pursuit of equal rights. Guy Garnsey, who led Opendore’s restoration, will trace the building’s transformation from a humble home to a magnificent estate, including its historic grounds.

Larry and Guy will highlight the decade-long building restoration, ongoing landscape and site development, and plans for the Hazard Library addition, offering a look at how this historic place continues to evolve and serve the community.

Through this celebration of the Howland legacy, we honor the enduring values of equality, peace, understanding, and service to others.