FHC receives bequest

Jay Lander, Attorney for Ms. Harriet G. Ward, presents Executive Director Annie Murphy with check representing Ms. Ward’s bequest to the Framingham History Center.

This morning, Attorney Jay Lander presented me with a check representing a bequest from Ms. Harriet G. Ward to the Framingham History Center.   Harriet was a member of the FHC, but I don’t think we ever met.  Mr. Lander, who was Harriet’s attorney and knew her very well, described her as very interested in history, a silversmith, a collector, and a wonderful caregiver to her parents, aunts and extended family.  With this gift, her care giving is extended to our community.  It was totally unexpected and could not have come at a better time.  While we have been gaining so much momentum around local preservation and programming, our annual fund has been hit by the economic downturn. It will allow us to continue our work uninterrupted while we also strive for sustainability.

According to Mr. Lander and others who knew her, Harriet was unassuming, liked to have a good time, and did not take herself too seriously — all traits I truly admire.  I also admire her thinking of how important it is to give locally when considering planned gifts.  The Framingham History Center depends on planned giving in addition to annual giving and I hope that you will consider this important community organization when you sit down with your estate planners or advisers.  You can’t imagine how grateful we will be.  If you have any questions about our Planned Giving Program, please call me at 508-626-9091 or email me at director@framinghamhistory.org.
– Annie Murphy
Executive Director