Formed in 1968 the purpose of the Upton Historical Society is to preserve, to educate and to make available to the public the history of Upton. Due to a lack of display space, it is difficult to carry out our mission statement. In 2000 the idea of an annual Past, Present, and Future Art Show was born.

On a September weekend, Society members turn the Upton Town Hall into an artistic oasis.  Guests are welcomed with tasteful historical displays, soothing music, beautiful arrangements of mums on antique furniture, and of course, plenty of art.

The focus is on Upton’s Past represented by displays of artifacts and art from the Society collection. The Present showcases the talents of current day Upton artists, both professional and amateur. Work being done in Upton’s schools is featured to represent the Future.

Nipmuc High School and Miscoe Hill Elementary School enter selected works by individual students. The Nipmuc Middle School enters a display of life size paper-mache animals. At our 2000 show we had a jungle with lions, tigers and panthers. These “animals” have since been given to the Roger Williams Zoo in Rhode Island and are on display there. In 2001 there was a forest with different kinds of bears and an ocean with a life size polar bear. “Pooh Bear” was also on display with his “honey pot”.

The art show committee and guests have been impressed with the quality artwork being done in the Upton schools.

Popular features of past shows include a table of photo albums from the Society collection. An interactive design game with Carl Pulson, renowned stained glass artist, was a big hit with young and old alike. Pauline Marquie demonstrated bird carving and displayed his own life like carvings.

Supported by donations from area businesses, organizations, and individuals the show is open to the public at no charge. It has been well attended with over 600 guests at our first show.