150 Years of Compassion: Monadnock Humane Society Celebrates a Major Milestone

On Saturday, June 28, 2025, Monadnock Humane Society (MHS) will open its doors to the community for a meaningful celebration of its 150th anniversary — a momentous milestone that honors not only the organization's history, but also the people and animals that have shaped its journey. Founded in 1875, Monadnock Humane Society started helping women and children as a small, grassroots effort to promote the humane treatment of animals in the Monadnock Region. Over the decades, it has grown into a trusted community resource that now serves more than 1,400 animals each year through sheltering, adoption, medical care and outreach programs. The organization has remained rooted in its original mission: to strengthen the bond between humans and animals. The upcoming anniversary event will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at MHS in Swanzey and is free and open to all. Guests can expect a thoughtful mix of reflection, recognition and celebration, including: The debut of the MHS History Walk, a self-guided wooded trail featuring signs that share important moments in the organization's past A road sign dedication A special exhibit of historical items curated by the Cheshire Historical Society Official proclamations from the City of Keene and the State of New Hampshire, with remarks from Mayor Jay Kahn and Senator Donovan Fenton In recognition of this extraordinary milestone, June 28th will be officially proclaimed as Monadnock Humane Society Day, a lasting tribute to the organization's legacy of service and its ongoing impact on the region. Throughout the afternoon, attendees can enjoy light refreshments, connect with MHS staff and volunteers and share memories of their own experiences with MHS. "For 150 years, this community has stood behind our mission," says Kathy Collinsworth, executive director of MHS. "This event is as much a thank you to our supporters as it is a celebration of what we've achieved together. We hope it inspires people to continue being a part of our work for years to come." While the day will highlight MHS' storied past, it also looks ahead to a hopeful future. As animal welfare evolves, MHS continues to innovate and adapt — expanding programs that keep pets with their families, increasing access to veterinary care and deepening its role as a community partner. The organization invites all supporters, past adopters, volunteers and friends to join in this historic celebration. If You Go: Where: Monadnock Humane Society 101 W. Swanzey Rd, Swanzey, NH Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025 Time: 1 to 3 p.m. Please RSVP at: https://tinyurl.com/MHSDayInvite