Our Mission
We are a donor-supported nonprofit organization. Our mission is to collect, preserve, interpret and present the rich history of Kent as well as to provide educational and research material to enrich the public understanding of Kent's artistic and cultural heritage. The prized possession of the Kent Historical Society is Seven Hearths, a large pre-Revolutionary house. As the flagship of the Flanders National Historic District, and the only original building open to the public, Seven Hearths offers a unique view of the early development of the Town of Kent. For much of the twentieth century, it was the home and studio of noted New York artist George Laurence Nelson.
Our Vision
Seven Hearths' history is Kent's history! Drawing on the extraordinary life of this house, Seven Hearths will be the primary vehicle to connect the people of Kent to their past. The Nelson studio and collection within Seven Hearths will inspire and enrich a larger community that will include the significant art and art history world beyond Kent. Through history and art programs, we will strengthen ties to the local area public and independent educational community, not only in our own region but other surrounding school districts as well. Seven Hearths will become a primary destination for New England tourists as well as a valuable research tool for serious artists and historians.
Adopted April 2012