Penfield launches its 250th anniversary preparations with a public open house in the Local History Room

Penfield, New York – As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary in 2026, the Town of Penfield is beginning its own reflection on the past with a special open house event in the Local History Room. The program, titled Penfield 250, offers residents an early opportunity to connect with the stories, records, and moments that shaped the community over generations.

The open house will be held on two different days to allow for flexible attendance. Adults are invited to stop by on Monday, January 12, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., or on Tuesday, January 13, from 11:30 a.m. to noon. The event is designed as a drop-in program, and no registration is required.

This open house serves as the kickoff for a broader series of monthly programs that will run throughout the year. Each session will focus on a different chapter or theme from Penfield’s past, offering residents a deeper understanding of how local history fits into the larger national story. From early settlement and civic growth to everyday life across different eras, the series aims to highlight the people and events that defined the town.

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During the open house, visitors will have the chance to explore the Local History Room, ask questions, and learn about the resources available to the public. The space houses documents, photographs, and other materials that help preserve Penfield’s heritage. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to guide attendees and share information about upcoming programs planned as part of the Penfield 250 initiative.

Organizers say the goal is to make history approachable and relevant, especially as the country nears a once-in-a-generation anniversary. By focusing on local experiences, the program encourages residents to see how national milestones are reflected in their own community’s journey.

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The Penfield 250 series is open to adults and welcomes longtime residents as well as those new to the area. Whether someone has deep family roots in Penfield or is simply curious about the town’s past, the open house offers a relaxed way to get involved.

As anticipation builds toward 2026, town leaders hope these monthly programs will spark conversation, pride, and a renewed appreciation for Penfield’s role in the broader American story.