UPCOMING EVENTS
Gail Gelburd: The Liberation of Sue Moody
The Otis Historical Commission and OPT present author Gail Gelburd on Wednesday, November 12th at 6:00 PM at the Otis Town Library. This event is in-person only. Dr. Gelburd will discuss her new book The Liberation of Sue Moody: Slaying the Dragons, about Otis resident Sue Moody, followed by a question and answer session.
PAST EVENTS
Below are some highlights of past events hosted by Otis Preservation Trust.
Knox Trail Documentary Film Premiere
In August 2025, the Otis Historical Commission and OPT in collaboration with the Monterey Historical Society presented the premiere of "The Knox Trail," a 12-minute documentary video tracing the history of General Knox’s famous 1776 journey at the Monterey Public Library. A discussion with the producers of the film, Jessica Provenz and Joshua Briggs, alongside local historian Tom Ragusa, followed.
Actress Sheryl Faye as Eleanor Roosevelt
In February 2025, the Otis Historical Commission and Otis Preservation Trust (OPT) hosted a performance by actress Sheryl Faye as Eleanor Roosevelt, performing via Zoom. A discussion about Eleanor Roosevelt's tie to Otis followed the performance.
The Sirens Musical Trio Live Performance at Otis Town Hall
In November 2024, the Otis Historical Commission and Otis Preservation Trust (OPT) hosted a live performance of The Sirens, three powerhouse local women of song: legendary performer Wanda Houston, talented guitarist and solo artist Elizabeth Berliner, and gifted singer/songwriter and comedienne Liv Cummins. It was a magical evening.
Western Mass Hilltown Hikers
This October 2024 event featured Elizabeth Massa, Director of Parks and Trails for the Town of Chester. Massa shared insights on Western Mass Hilltown Hikers, exploring the rich history hidden in the forests, trails, and old infrastructure of the region. The engaging talk highlighted monthly guided hikes that bring the Hilltowns’ past to life, followed by a lively Q&A. You can watch a recording of the event by clicking here.
THE ABC'S OF THE CPA (Community Preservation Act)
Hosted as a public service by the Otis Preservation Trust, this virtual event explored what the Community Preservation Act (CPA) could mean for Otis. Presenters from neighboring towns shared how the CPA has supported everything from senior programs to historical preservation. Attendees learned why towns like Becket and Leverett have benefited since adopting the CPA, and why 196 communities across Massachusetts have joined. Note: OPT does not endorse nor oppose Otis adopting the CPA. The Otis Preservation Trust graciously offered to host this Zoom meetup as public service to the Community. You can watch a recording of the event by clicking here.
What is Happening at Gould Farm: The Roadside Café and More
Gould Farm, the nation’s first residential community for adults with mental health challenges, shared its mission of healing through community and meaningful work. Their beloved Roadside Store and Cafe, a Monterey staple since 1978, offered farm-fresh food and a supportive work environment. With the original building aging out, plans for a new and improved cafe were unveiled, made possible by generous donors. In this February 2024 event, they explained how the reopening was set for later that year. You can watch a recording of the event by clicking here.