What We Do
and Who We Are
The Calais Historical Society, located at 261 Robinson Cemetery Rd in Calais, VT, is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and cataloging materials related to the town's history, including manuscripts, photographs, and artifacts.
The society meets monthly for programs and potluck suppers, providing a community forum for exploring local heritage. These gatherings foster connections among attendees and offer opportunities to share stories, artifacts, and traditions, encouraging appreciation of the area's unique history.
Key Details About the Calais Historical Society
Mission: To preserve, catalog, and share the history of Calais, Vermont.Collection Focus: The society maintains a collection of documents, letters, diaries, collections and photographs. This diverse archive ensures that both everyday moments and significant events are preserved for future generations. By offering access to these resources, the society encourages community engagement and fosters a deeper appreciation of local history.
Activities: Holds regular monthly meetings, which often include educational programs, potluck suppers, and discussions, along with organizing occasional field trips.
In addition to the historical society, the town's Historic Preservation Commission promotes the town's history and manages local, state-recognized preservation efforts.
Members of the Board
PRESIDENT
Donna Fitch is a lifelong Calais, Vermont resident, honored for her extensive municipal service, including 14 years on the Selectboard and service as Town Clerk and Treasurer. A UVM graduate, she worked in corporate communication before leading major town administrative transformations. She is the daughter of the late Stanley and Elaine Fitch, and her family has been involved in local governance for generations. Donna was officially honored by the Vermont House of Representatives for her service to the town of Calais.
VICE-PRESIDENT
Gail Graham, former president and current vice-president of the Historical Society, grew up in Calais, Vermont; graduating from Montpelier High School in 1956. She went on to graduate from Mary Hitchcock School of Nursing in 1959 and completed a post-graduate course in surgical nursing at MHMH the following year. After spending professional time away on the West Coast, Gail moved back to the family farm in Calais in 2007 and still resides there now. She worked as a receptionist for the Douglas Administration during his last year in office (2010), which she greatly enjoyed, and also introduced her public policy. Gail remains a very active and contributing member of the Calais Community.
RECORDING/CORRESPONDANCE SECRETARY
Reed Cherington was a long-time volunteer and served as Chairman of the Ancient Roads Committee and the Calais Historical Society. He was acknowledged in the 2020 Town Report for his dedicated service to the community, specifically regarding trail work and municipal committees. He has been recognized by the Calais Select Board for his contributions as a dedicated community volunteer.
TREASURER
Richard Maizell, a psychologist and educator living in Calais, Vermont, is an active community volunteer whose work spans animal welfare, local history, and civic life. He has served as Treasurer of the Calais Historical Society and has been involved in preservation efforts tied to the Kents Corner Historic District, helping sustain one of Vermont’s best-preserved rural historic areas through stewardship and community programming. His service also includes roles with the Maple Corner Community Store and on the board of the Old West Church, along with volunteer leadership at the Central Vermont Humane Society, reflecting a broad commitment to strengthening Calais’s institutions and cultural life.