Save the Date! On Sunday, July 5, 2026 for our Heritage Day Celebration
In conjunction with the 250th Anniversary of the United States we are planning a day of crafts and historical traditions at the Rich=-Twinn Octagon House from 1pm - 5pm.
Preceding that at noon there will be a ceremony at Maple Lawn Cemetery, located next to Russell Park, to honor the Revolutionary War Veterans who are buried there.
Rich-Twinn Octagon House
"The Octagon", as first owner and builder Charles Rich referred to his unique home, is first seen on a map in 1855. Five families resided there until the Newstead Historical Society purchased the house in 1981. The building has been meticulously restored and achieved the honor of being placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
Knight-Sutton Museum & Research Center
Home to our museum and research room for Akron-Newstead NY history, the KSM has a permanent display, "Moments in Time", highlighting local indigenous life, early Akron businesses, industry, and schools as well as an annual themed exhibit from items in our collection.
Our 2026 special exhibit, "We, the People" honors the sacrifices of the six Revolutionary War veterans who helped shape and form our new nation. This display is presented as part of the Newstead Historical Society's events and programs celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.
Free Public Programs
Century Homes & Century Landmarks
Each year, the NHS presents free, public programs on a variety of local, regional, and national historical subjects. They are held at the Newstead Town Hall in the Village of Akron.
This year's programs are listed on our "About" page. The link below will take you to our YouTube page.
Century Homes & Century Landmarks
Century Homes & Century Landmarks
Century Homes & Century Landmarks
The Newstead Historical Society has a special interest in the enduring homes of the town and village since the society's inception in 1958. If your home is over 100 years in existence, and is within the Akron-Newstead area you are eligible for a Century Home marker. Email us through our Contact page if you are interested in having your home added to our Century Homes & Landmarks collection.
Community Projects
Century Homes & Century Landmarks
Century Homes & Century Landmarks
In 2016, the NHS began plans for an ongoing cemeteries restoration project with the commitment to repairing, restoring, cleaning, and replacing damaged headstones of Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Civil War veterans, and notable citizens of Akron and Newstead, as well as documenting the known histories of those citizens.