History of the Knight-Sutton Museum
Through the benevolence of Mrs. Walter Sutton the Knight-Sutton Museum was established in 1997 when it was realized that the Newstead Historical Society’s artifact collection was so extensive that it needed its own museum. Previously it was thought that many of the artifacts could be housed in the Octagon House, (our house museum), but because of the generosity of our citizens the collection soon grew too large and more space was needed. Mrs. Sutton effectively bequeathed the building to NHS – the only stipulation being that it be dedicated to Mike and Sally McCleod, early NHS dedicated volunteers, involved in the Octagon house restoration.
From the period of 1997 through 2006, when the first exhibit premiered, much effort was put into gathering the collection from various locations where it had been stored, identifying and organizing the objects and attending classes on how to establish and set up a museum ,catalogue and preserve artifacts, and on exhibit structure and content. Surveys were done in the community to elicit feedback on what exhibits would be of interest to the community. Through these years several exhibits were presented as well.
Since 2006 annual rotating exhibits on the history of Akron and Newstead have been offered for private citizens as well as student and group tours at our location at 123 Main Street, Akron, N.Y.
2023 Exhibit Information
The 2023 exhibit “ Newstead-200 Years” will open May 7th. It will stay open through the end of September on the 1st and 3rd Sundays from 1-3pm and on every Wednesday from 10 am to 1pm. Admission is free but donations are gratefully accepted.
“Newstead — 200 Years” Walk through history with us as we take a bicentennial look at our successful and serene community. Explore the farms, the schools, the industries, the events, and most importantly—the people—who helped Newstead grow and prosper. This exhibit will be on view for our 2023 season.
We are always looking for help and invite you to join us! Volunteers work on Wednesdays and help with a variety of tasks including organization and preservation of donated materials for the archives, newspaper clippings, assisting with tours and school visits, etc.
We are also available to assist with public inquiries regarding Akron-Newstead history.
Pat Rodrigues, Knight-Sutton Museum Director
[email protected]
Exhibit Research and Design Team: Marybeth Whiting & Laurel Jones
For questions regarding guidelines for artifact donations contact Jannette Potera, Collections Manager: [email protected]