This c.1970s-1980s image features Sharon Donahe focusing on a Karl Fischer water analyzer in the “Analytical and Technical Services Laboratory” at Woods Corners in Norwich. Visitors can learn more about industrial approaches to healthcare and the legacy of the Norwich Pharmacal Company in the “Hometown Health” exhibit opening from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Monday, May 15 at the Chenango County Historical Society. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) welcomes the community to a new exhibit opening from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Monday, May 15. “Hometown Health” continues the 2023 season with an exploration of healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry in Chenango County throughout the first half of the 20th century.

“Hometown Health” allows visitors to discover the personal stories of local residents as they experienced global historical events, such as the 1918 flu and the world wars. Museum patrons will also learn about industrial approaches to healthcare and the legacy of the Norwich Pharmacal Company.

“Curated in collaboration with the Cooperstown Graduate Program (CGP), the installation of ‘Hometown Health’ has truly been a community effort,” said CCHS Executive Director Jessica Moquin. “Thanks to the generosity of NBT Bank and Sherwin-Williams, our Commerce Gallery has received a much-needed refresh. We are grateful for the opportunity to share community narratives on health and well-being in this updated exhibition space.”

Refreshments will be provided compliments of UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, and each guest will receive a vintage booklet commemorating NBT Bank’s 150th anniversary, along with a promotional coupon from Sherwin-Williams.

First established in 1939, CCHS is the primary organization dedicated to actively and comprehensively preserving the history of Chenango County. The area’s premier heritage museum, the organization celebrates local culture – unique traditions, noteworthy residents, and unusual stories of the region.

Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, and admission is a free-will donation left up to each visitor’s discretion. CCHS programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

The CGP is one of the country’s oldest museum studies graduate programs, established in 1964. Since then, the program has continued to grow. The CGP continues to have a national impact on the arts, humanities, historical preservation, cultural and community programming, economic development, and social change.

-Information provided by CCHS