Chesterfield New Hampshire Historical Society
Season's Greetings from the Archives
2022
The Chesterfield Historical Society has thousands of items in its collection reflecting everyday life in Chesterfield. When the CHS volunteers were asked which of the collection's Christmas greetings they liked the best, these are the ones they chose.....
Robert T. Mills, Jr.
Feb. 26, 1927 - Oct. 26, 2016
Bob, a Navy veteran, ran an auto body shop but is mostly fondly remembered as Chesterfield 's Police Chief. An avid artist, craftsman, and photographer, he was a member of the Brattleboro Camera Club, and the Chesterfield Volunteer Fire Department. His love for Chesterfield and the arts was quite apparent when upon his death, he asked that donations be made to the Chesterfield School's Art Department. He is buried in Friedsam Cemetery.
Paul Matthew Penning
Feb 4, 1899 - Feb 6, 1989
Paul Penning came to Chesterfield with his family in the 1930s. He made his mark on the town by holding the position of selectman from 1933 into the 1970s. He was also Chesterfield's Postmaster for many years, as well as the proprietor of Penning's Store (the present Chesterfield Post Office). He was an avid photographer known for creating innovative Christmas cards. Paul joined the Brattleboro Camera Club in 1946 and served as Secretary for many years. He was honored by being made a Life Member. The "Paul Penning Achievement Award" is presented annually to a club member who has made a contribution that benefits the club as a whole. He is buried in West Chesterfield Cemetery. (Cards are dated 1958 - window motif, 1954, and 1973.)
This card could not be overlooked. It is a technical drawing by Billy O'Neil of the family home. It was sent out as Holiday Greetings from the James O'Neil Family.
The James O'Neil Family is a Gold Star Family who contributed much to Chesterfield. James Sr. held several offices in town and represented Chesterfield in Concord. James Sr.'s son, Billy, lost his life at age 21 in Vietnam. They are both buried in Friedsam Cemetery.
The Chesterfield Historical Society Board and its Dedicated Volunteers wish
You and Yours a Happy Holiday Season and a Rewarding New Year!
