Included in the house is Doctor Shaw’s medical office. He apprenticed to Dr. Peter Bryant – father of author William Cullen Bryant – in neighboring Cummington.
Doctor Samuel Shaw's medical office at the Shaw Hudson House is just as it was in the late 19th century.
It could be called Plainfield’s pride.
The Shaw Hudson House is the only historical museum in this northwestern Hampshire County town of 600. “It’s one of the things the town is proud of,” said Judith B. Williams, president of the Plainfield Historical Society.
Wedding receptions are hosted there, and each year there’s a festive tea when the house is decorated for the holidays.
The Shaw Hudson House was built in 1833 for Dr. Samuel Shaw and his family. It contains objects, art and family furnishings dating to the late 18th century. Furniture, pictures, books, photographs, kitchenware, quilts, clothing and related items of everyday life in early Plainfield were lovingly preserved by Clara Shaw Hudson, the last family member to live in the house, which she left in trust in 1960 for the benefit of the Plainfield Congregational Church and community; the house is maintained with support from a modest endowment she provided.
“She stipulated that the room be left as it was as a museum of her grandfather,” Williams said of the medical office.
Hudson was close to her grandfather, even writing a booklet, “Memories of my Grandfather,” which Williams said contains “wonderful vignettes of him.”
Included in the house is Doctor Shaw’s medical office. He apprenticed to Dr. Peter Bryant – father of author William Cullen Bryant – in neighboring Cummington.
Shaw married Dr. Bryant’s daughter, Sarah, and inherited his practice and early medical books, many of which are preserved and displayed in the house. Shaw practiced medicine in Plainfield from 1824-1880; his office remains as he left it.
A selectman, Shaw was often sought out for advice, Williams said. “He was a very respected gentleman, a very kind gentleman.”
On Dec. 8, historian and author William Hosley will present an illustrated lecture that explores the history of the Shaw family, specific aspects of the house and collection and the unique importance of the collection as a document of early American medical history. It will be followed by a tour of the Shaw Hudson House museum. The lecture will take place at Town Hall, 304 Main St., from 2 to 3 p.m. with the tour of the house at 286 Main St. from 3 to 4 p.m.
The purpose of this program, for which there is no charge but donations will be accepted, is to better acquaint the public with the Shaw Hudson House and to spark interest and discussion about its future.
The endowment does not generate enough income to maintain the house, so townspeople, historical society members and church members raise funds for its upkeep.
For more information about the event, contact Judy Williams (413) 634-8099 or judithbryanwilliams@verizon.net.