Home / Archive / VOL. V NO. 18 09/15/2024 / Our Neighbor — Lee MA

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VOL. V NO. 18 09/15/2024

Our Neighbor — Lee MA

About the Town of Lee

The Town of Lee, Massachusetts, is a picturesque town known as the “Gateway to the Berkshires”. Originally settled in the 1760s and incorporated in 1777, Lee played a significant role during the Industrial Revolution, particularly in papermaking and marble quarrying. The town’s marble has graced notable structures like the Capitol in Washington, D.C., and St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Today, Lee boasts a charming downtown with historical architecture, cultural landmarks, and modern amenities, making it a delightful blend of old-world charm and contemporary convenience. Its scenic beauty and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular destination for tourists and a beloved home for its residents.

“Lee, Massachusetts, with its rich historical roots and vibrant community spirit, stands as an ideal location to host an exhibit on the history of democracy,” said Town Administrator, Chris Brittain. “Lee’s charming downtown, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its deep connection to American heritage make it a perfect backdrop for exploring the evolution of democratic ideals.”

Smithsonian Exhibition on Democracy Coming to Lee

The installation highlights the fascinating history of “Voices and Votes” at the local, state, and national levels.

On August 15, Mass Humanities announced the selection of the Town of Lee as a host site for the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum on Main Street traveling exhibition, “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America.” The exhibit will be located at the Lee Premium Outlets. It examines the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people,” and how each generation since continues to question how to form “a more perfect union.” Opening on June 7, 2025, “Voices and Votes” will be on view through July 19, 2025.

Museum on Main Street (MoMS) is a national/state/local partnership designed to bring exceptional humanities programs to rural cultural organizations. See more under Perspectives.

Local Contact: Sabrina Touhey; (413) 409-5975; sabrina.touhey@lee.ma.us

Smithsonian Contact: Jennifer Schommer; (202) 633-3121; schommerj@si.edu

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Photo: Richard Lasner

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Carole Owens, Executive Editor

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