About Us

As a historical society, it is our mission to identify, collect, document and exhibit historical treasures. We also educate and engage a diverse cultural community through a variety of programs and exhibits that make the city of Woonsocket’s history meaningful, accessible, and enjoyable.

Frank Anthony Jackson

(1851 – 1941)
FOUNDER AND FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE WOONSOCKET HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Frank Jackson was born on June 1, 1851, in Chelsea, Massachusetts. He was the son of Cyrus Franklin and Jessie C. (Anthony) Jackson. At a young age his family moved to Owosso, Michigan, where they remained for five years. Shortly after Frank’s father enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War, the family moved back east to Westboro, MA. In 1867, the family moved to Providence, RI, where Mr Jackson took up employment Albert L Calder, pharmacist.

Phyllis Thomas

(1919 – 2013)
FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE WOONSOCKET HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Phyllis (Hoyle) Thomas was born on December 15, 1919, in Ware, MA. The daughter of John Sawyer Hoyle and Irene Coughlin Hoyle she moved to Union Village when she was 12 years old. A graduate of Woonsocket High School class of 1937, she earned a BS in Journalism from Boston University in 1941. In 1941 she married her first husband, Charles H. Palmer, who died in Rome Italy on June 30, 1945. In 1952 she married Dr. Alton P Thomas, who has written two books and numerous articles about Woonsocket’s history.

Our History

Since its founding, the Woonsocket Historical Society has been dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the city’s historical and records and artifacts. Through ongoing research and community engagement, the Society continues to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of Woonsocket and its rich heritage.

1915

Founding the Society

On March 28, 1915, six residents of Woonsocket — James S. Slater, Frank A. Jackson, Chesman C. Spratt, Carrie Smith Beauregard, Estelle J. Phetteplace, and Burlington M. Briggs — officially filed an agreement with the Office of the Secretary of State to form the Woonsocket Historical Society.

1930-1940

A Quiet Chapter

Although the Society was once an active voice in the community, the late 1930s and early 1940s brought national challenges that drew focus away from local initiatives. During this time, the Society's charter lapsed, and operations came to a halt.

1947

A New Beginning

In April 1947, a group of dedicated Woonsocket residents came together to revive the Historical Society. They updated the organization's constitution and by-laws, reigniting its mission to preserve and celebrate the city’s history.

1977

Expanding the Society's Mission

At a special meeting in September 1977, members of the Woonsocket Historical Society voted to amend the organization’s articles. This amendment formally expanded The Society’s mission to include the preservation and protection of historic and cultural properties throughout the community.

2025

WHS Today

Today, the society actively maintains an archived collection containing various items, from documents and photographs to everyday objects, that reflect the city’s history.

Our Volunteer Leaders

Irene Blais is a lifelong Woonsocket resident who spent 25 years with CVS Corporate Headquarters and 23 years at the Museum of Work & Culture. She has long been active in local organizations and has served as President of the Woonsocket Historical Society since 2009. Irene and her husband, Lee, have one son and two grandchildren.

Irene BlaisPresident

Larry Poitras is a lifelong Woonsocket resident and dedicated historian. After earning degrees in history and education, he spent over 40 years as a teacher and principal in the Greater Woonsocket Catholic Regional School System, where he also taught a course on Woonsocket History. Larry hosted a WNRI radio talk show for more than 30 years and currently serves on the boards of The Stadium Theatre and the Greater Woonsocket Catholic Regional School System. He was married to his late wife, Liz, for 54 years and is the proud father of two daughters and grandfather of three.

Larry PoitrasVice President

Tammy Irwin is co-owner of Timeless Antiques and Collectibles with her husband, Frank. A lifelong Woonsocket resident, she is active in the Northern Rhode Island Council of the Arts, the Downtown Woonsocket Collaborative, and the Main Street Holiday Stroll committee. Tammy is passionate about preserving the city’s history and inspiring others to do the same.

Tammy IrwinSecretary

Christopher Carcifero has served as Treasurer of the Woonsocket Historical Society since 2022 and brings expertise in grant writing and nonprofit management. With degrees in architecture, interior design, planning, and historic preservation, he has over 32 years of experience in both public and private sectors. He has led multiple successful historic building nominations and currently works as the Deputy Director of Planning for the Town of Smithfield, serving as liaison to key boards and commissions.

Christopher CarciferoTreasurer