April 29th, 2026 
We would like to address several false and misleading statements that have recently been circulated on Facebook regarding our legitimate officer election at the Waretown Historical Society. It is important that our members and the community have an accurate understanding of what took place and how the process was handled.
On April 20th, we held our regularly scheduled monthly meeting, which included the by-annual election of officers. Attendance was noticeably higher than usual due to the importance of the election and the strong interest among members. When the time came to begin voting, our Vice President informed those present that, based on the Society’s bylaws, members would be eligible to vote only if they had attended three meetings within the previous twelve months.
At that point, a lifetime member stood and stated that she interpreted the bylaws differently, believing that members were eligible to vote if they had attended three meetings at any time during the Society’s existence. This led to an open discussion from the floor, during which many opinions were shared. While the conversation became spirited at times, it reflected the passion members have for the Society and its future.
In order to ensure fairness, transparency, and adherence to our governing rules, a motion was made to seek a formal interpretation of the bylaws from legal counsel. That motion was approved, and the election was suspended until an official response could be received.
On April 21, the Society received the legal interpretation. Counsel determined that the bylaws require a member to have attended three meetings within the previous twelve months in order to be eligible to vote. Based on that guidance, our Vice President scheduled the election to be completed on April 27th from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
It was essential that the election be held in April, as our bylaws clearly state that the election of officers must take place during that month. The scheduling of the vote was done to comply fully with those requirements while also following the legal interpretation that had been requested by the membership.
We understand that some individuals, including family members and friends of our Historian and former President, who now serves as Vice President, may be disappointed with the outcome or the process. However, the actions taken were based on fairness, legal guidance, and the Society’s obligation to follow its bylaws.
​RESULTS ( Aidan 9 - Adele 4 )
Moving forward, we sincerely hope that all members who care about the direction of the Waretown Historical Society will attend meetings regularly, participate constructively, and share their opinions in a peaceful and professional manner. Healthy discussion and active involvement are vital to the continued success and growth of our organization.
P.S, there is always two sides to every story.
Sincerely,
Aidan M. O'Hearn

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April 28th, 2026
Dear Members & Friends,
The election of officers has concluded, and I am honored to write to you as the new President of the Waretown Historical Society. It is truly a privilege to serve an organization that means so much to our town and to so many generations of residents who have worked tirelessly to preserve our local history.
First, I would like to thank Adele Shaw for her years of dedicated service as President. Her leadership, commitment, and passion have helped guide the Society through many important years of growth and progress. We are fortunate that she will continue serving as Vice President and in her treasured role as our historian. Her knowledge of Waretown’s past is unmatched, and no one could ever replace the care and dedication she brings to preserving our community’s story.
As I step into the role of President, I do so with great respect for the Society’s traditions and with excitement for its future. I have proudly been a member of the Historical Society since I was six years old. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to grow alongside this organization, taking on greater responsibilities and learning from so many wonderful members who care deeply about our mission. This Society has always felt like family to me, and it is an honor to now help lead it into a new chapter.
This is an especially meaningful year for our great town, as we celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Waretown. Reaching such a milestone reminds us of the generations of hardworking families, baymen, farmers, shopkeepers, veterans, and community leaders who built the town we know and love today. Throughout this anniversary year, we have many special programs, celebrations, and community events planned, and we hope all residents will come out to support and enjoy them.
We are also proud to reflect on the tremendous success of our recent Grand Reopening Ceremony, where we welcomed the public back to our renewed musuem and celebrated the continued growth of the Society. Seeing so many friends, neighbors, and supporters gathered together was a reminder that history matters, and that preserving it remains important to our community. The enthusiasm and encouragement shown that day will stay with us for years to come.
One of the major highlights of the reopening was the debut of our brand-new Hands-On History Exhibit. This exciting interactive display allows visitors of all ages to experience history in a more personal and engaging way. Featuring tools, cranberry scoops, fishing poles, and many everyday items once used by local residents, the exhibit helps bring the past to life. Rather than simply viewing artifacts behind glass, guests can better understand how earlier generations lived, worked, and built our town. It is our hope that this exhibit inspires younger generations to appreciate and connect with Waretown’s rich heritage.
As President, I look forward to continuing the positive momentum we have built over the past year. My goal is to bring even more growth, energy, and opportunity to the Society while honoring the traditions that make us special. We hope to expand programming, welcome new members, preserve additional pieces of local history, and make the Historical Society a place where the entire community feels welcome.
The future of the Waretown Historical Society is brighter than ever before, and I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me. With the support of our officers, members, volunteers, and community partners, I know we can accomplish great things together.
Thank you for your continued support, dedication, and belief in preserving the story of Waretown for future generations. I encourage all of you to attend our upcoming events, become involved, and help us make this historic year one to remember.
Sincerely,
Aidan M. O’Hearn