About us
Preserving the heart of our community
The Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission is a non-profit organization established to support the vital work of documenting and protecting the unique history of Dalton. Our organization serves as the primary resource for historical research, preservation advocacy, and community heritage events. We believe that history should be accessible, engaging, and relevant to the modern world. Our approach combines rigorous academic standards with a warm, welcoming environment where families can discover their roots and newcomers can learn about their new home. We manage a growing collection of archives, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of Dalton’s transformation through the centuries, ensuring that the achievements and struggles of our predecessors are never forgotten. Our educational philosophy is rooted in the concept of “living history.” We believe that the best way to learn about the past is through direct interaction and storytelling rather than passive observation. This philosophy drives us to create programs that are immersive and interdisciplinary, connecting historical events to contemporary social studies, economics, and environmental science. We strive to inspire a sense of wonder in our youth, showing them that they are part of a long and meaningful story. By fostering critical thinking and historical empathy, we empower our community members to become informed citizens who value their heritage. Our unique position as a community-driven NGO allows us to be flexible and responsive to the needs of Dalton residents, creating a space where history is a tool for community building and personal growth.
Our Story
A journey through time and the evolution
The story of the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission began with a small group of passionate residents who recognized that the rapid pace of modern development was threatening to obscure the town’s rich industrial and social legacy. What started as an informal gathering of history buffs quickly evolved into a structured non-profit organization dedicated to formal preservation efforts. Located at 161 Raymond Dr, our headquarters has become a sanctuary for the records and relics that define our town. Over the years, we have grown from a modest archival project into a comprehensive community organization that hosts lectures, manages restoration projects, and collaborates with local government to protect historic landmarks. This journey has been fueled by the unwavering support of our neighbors and the tireless dedication of our volunteers. As we have grown, our impact on the community has become increasingly visible. We have successfully cataloged thousands of historical documents, saved several key structures from neglect, and introduced thousands of local students to the wonders of local history. Our growth is not just measured in the size of our collection, but in the depth of our community relationships. We have become a trusted partner for families looking to trace their genealogy and for developers seeking to respect the historical context of their projects. Every milestone in our history reflects a shared commitment to the idea that a community that knows its past is better equipped to build a sustainable and meaningful future. We continue to evolve, seeking new ways to integrate technology and modern storytelling into our mission of preservation.
What We Do
Bringing the past to life through comprehensive programs
Our daily operations at the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission are centered around the meticulous care of our archives and the development of public-facing programs that make history tangible. On any given day, our team may be found digitizing rare photographs, assisting a researcher with a family genealogy project, or preparing a new exhibit for our visitor center. We offer a wide range of services including historical site tours, guest lecture series, and specialized workshops on preservation techniques. Our daily activities are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that there is always something for everyone, whether you are a professional historian or a family looking for an afternoon of educational discovery. We maintain a constant presence in the community, advocating for the protection of our historical landscape. Our learning approach is multifaceted and designed to engage all five senses. We move beyond the pages of textbooks to offer hands-on experiences with historical tools, interactive maps, and oral history recordings. By providing a platform for people to share their own stories, we create a dynamic and ever-evolving archive that reflects the true diversity of the Dalton experience. We believe that history is a collaborative process, and we encourage our visitors to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and contribute their own knowledge to our collective understanding. This approach ensures that history remains a vibrant part of our daily lives, rather than something locked away in a dusty cabinet. Through our work, we aim to spark a lifelong passion for discovery and a deep-seated respect for the cultural fabric of our town.
Contact Us
Multiple ways to connect with the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission
We warmly invite you to reach out to us with any questions, specific research requests, or to learn more about the many ways you can support our mission of preservation and education. Our professional team is deeply dedicated to providing prompt, friendly, and helpful assistance to all members of our community, whether you are a lifelong resident or a curious visitor from afar. Whether you prefer to visit us in person to see our exhibits, give us a quick call to ask a question, or connect with us online through our digital platforms, we are here to help you explore and appreciate the rich, multifaceted history of Dalton. Our headquarters at 161 Raymond Dr is a vibrant hub of historical activity, and we welcome you to stop by during our public hours to explore our latest rotating exhibits, browse our gift shop, and meet our passionate staff.
Join Our Team
Explore career opportunities and a rewarding team culture in historical preservation
The Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission is a dynamic, innovative, and steadily growing organization, and we are always on the lookout for passionate, skilled individuals to join our professional team. We offer a variety of rewarding career opportunities in fields such as archival management, museum education, non-profit administration, community outreach, and digital preservation. Our team culture is defined by a deep, shared commitment to our mission, a highly collaborative and supportive spirit, and a profound respect for the diverse talents and perspectives that each person brings to our organization. We believe in providing a healthy, supportive work environment where professional development is actively encouraged, where work-life balance is respected, and where every single team member’s unique contribution is recognized as vital to our collective success.
