Housed in an private school built in 1833, the museum has two goals -- to describe the role of private academies in New England in the early 19th century, and to reflect life in 19th century Jaffrey Center and how its people and history are tied to contemporary times in this small town. The first floor offers exhibits, while the second is set up as a schoolroom.
Melville Academy has operated as a local history museum since 1920. The building has been well-maintained over the years, and the exhibits updated and freshened. Because 2006 was the JCVIS's centennial, the museum's exhibits are in excellent shape and interactive.
It has an excellent collection of Hannah David bandboxes, scrapbooks documenting VIS activities, 19th century kitchen and agricultural tools, samplers made by Jaffrey residents, and other artifacts relating to 19th rural century life.
Groups tours for schools, tourists, senior citizens, special education classes can be arranged at no cost. Donations are always appreciated.
Owned and maintained by the Jaffrey Center Village Improvement Society, which was founded in 1913.
Access: General Public
Appointment required: True
Open Saturdays and Sundays during July and August from 2 to 4 p.m. or by appointment from May through October.