BETHEL – Bethel Historical Society Executive Director Stanley R. Howe will present a slide show on the history of the society from its earliest days in the mid-1960s to the present at the 41st annual meeting on Thursday, Sept. 14.

He has served as chief administrator of the society for the past 32 years. Founded in 1966, the society has observed its 40th anniversary through a number observances and special programming this year.

From the early days of 1966, the society has grown to nearly 1,400 members, owns two buildings and has a staff of three with more than 100 volunteers, plus an extensive programming schedule throughout the year.

The meeting will begin with a chicken barbecue on the side lawn of the Dr. Moses Mason House (weather permitting) beginning after 6 p.m. Those members and friends attending are requested to bring a salad or dessert.

Following the barbecue, all will adjourn to the meeting room of the Mason house for the meeting beginning at 7:30 p.m., where new bylaws will be considered by the membership as well as the report of the Nominating Committee consisting of Dean Walker, chairman, Arlene Lowell and Dorothy Bartlett.

New honorary members of the society are expected to be announced and presented with certificates for their long service to the organization. The president will make his report. The Noll Volunteer Service Award will also be presented to an outstanding volunteer (or volunteers) for 2006.

More information about the society and its activities may be obtained by calling 824-2908 or 1-800-824-2910, by e-mailing [email protected] or visiting www.bethelhistorical.org.