About Wellesley

Wellesley: A History

The Wellesley Historical Society was founded in 1925 with a mission to collect, preserve and share the history of Wellesley.  We have a passion and dedication for our work and for you to join us to “Open the Door to History” about Wellesley, New England, the United States and the world.

Humans first arrived in the area that is now Wellesley more than 10,000 years ago, forming communities whose descendants became the Wampanoag, Massachusetts, and Nipmuc nations. In the 1600s, European pioneers purchased the land from the local Native American chiefs, expanding the existing town of Dedham westward.  In 1711 the town of Needham was formed, splitting off from Dedham, and in 1881 the area known as West Needham separated to form the town of Wellesley.  

The archives of the Wellesley Historical Society contain original records, objects, and artifacts that represent the history of our town, Wellesley. We invite you to join our organization and participate in our events to learn more about our community and share in our love of history.

Interactive Maps

These four maps were created by four students in the Evolutions program at Wellesley High School. The goal of the project was to create a digital resource for people who want to learn more about Wellesley through a visual and interactive experience that contributes to a broad understanding of the history of the town specifically in the elements of architecture, arts & culture, sustainability, and Indigenous land.

Books

We have partnered with Wellesley Books at 82 Central Street in Wellesley to bring to you books about Wellesley and its citizens.

History Mysteries

Does this building look familiar? Not only does it still stand today, but it’s very much in use, as busy as ever. While the surroundings have clearly changed, you may recognize its distinctive shape and small size.

  • This circa 1900 photograph shows what was then the Unionville School and is now the Fells Branch Library, located at 308 Weston Road. The oldest public building in Wellesley, it has a proud history. Originally named the Northwest School (1858-1876), it was renamed the Unionville School (1876-1907) and then became the Fells School (1903-1923). In 1923 the current Hardy School was built to much fanfare, and when the children moved across the street, the little schoolhouse was converted into the branch library that we know today.

Here’s a look back at one of Wellesley’s oldest churches. It’s changed a great deal over the years! Any guesses as to which it is?

  • This is St. Andrews Episcopal Church circa 1894. The image was likely taken not long after the church was built. St Andrews has since enlarged and expanded several times, giving rise to the building we are familiar with today.

    Did you notice the blue hue of this picture? It is actually a cyanotype, a photographic printing process introduced in 1842 that produces a cyan-blue print. Cyanotypes, popular well into the 20th century, were frequently used for copying architectural plans.

Spotlight on the Collections

and Wellesley

Children’s Activity Tool Kit

A Child’s Life in 1881 Wellesley

These toolkits were designed to provide a glimpse into life as a child in Wellesley during the 1880s as well as to examine similarities and differences between life then and now. 

Kits are designed for children grades 3-5 with adult guidance. Activities are ideal for groups of 2-10 children per toolkit. The toolkits may be utilized at parties, after-school activities (such as Girl or Boy Scouts), or for families.