About Us

Mission Statement

The New Hope Historical Society is committed to a twofold mission.

To preserve and promote the diverse historical influence of New Hope through our stewardship of historic collections, research, and educational activities so that succeeding generations may benefit from our shared knowledge of local history.

To maintain, protect and preserve the Parry Mansion and affiliated structures as a window into how past generations lived, while conserving and offering a collection of documents, objects, and paintings available for viewing through tours and exhibits.

History of the New Hope Historical Society

In the mid 1950’s, Dr. Arthur Ricker, a beloved and prominent New Hope physician and history buff, was concerned. The recently enacted Interstate Highway Act of 1956 would soon direct tens of thousands of vehicles to within 10 miles of his historic community. How would the expected massive influx of vehicles and visitors impact his town? The 1955 flood devastated the New Hope community, adding further urgency to the need of safeguarding its architectural treasures.

Assembling a group of his friends and community leaders, Ricker met regularly to discuss plans to address the anticipated dramatic changes. On June 25, 1958, the New Hope Historical Society was born.

In 1966 the Society purchased Parry Mansion at 45 South Main Street.

Our Society’s office is in this elegant eighteenth-century Georgian-style home in the heart of New Hope’s historic district. For additional information on the Society, click here.

History of the Parry Mansion & Barn

The Parry Mansion was built in 1784 and owned by Benjamin Parry (the "Father of New Hope") and later his descendants until the mid-1960's.

It was the home of Benjamin and five generations of the Parry family. The New Hope Historical Society purchased this beautiful structure from Margaret Parry Lang in 1966 saving it from the wrecking ball. It is located across the street from the Parry Barn, which our founding members saved from demolition in 1958. For additional information on Benjamin Parry and his properties, click here.

Kate Brindle, Executive Director

We are delighted to introduce our new Executive Director, Kate Brindle. Kate previously worked for Crossroads of the American Revolution NHA in New Jersey where she was in charge of programs and events. During her time at Crossroads, Kate created the workshop series “The Art Of…” which included hands-on workshops featuring experts in Colonial era history from as far away as Canada. In addition, Kate’s work focused on bringing history alive to students and reaching new audiences with Revolutionary War-themed baseball nights through unique partnerships with the Somerset Patriots baseball team, which is the Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees and the Trenton Thunder baseball team. Kate is also part owner of the Gentlewoman’s Farm with her sister and mother. In her spare time, she loves to read cozy mysteries and play with her five bernedoodles.