Unlike its growing membership, the Johnston Historical Society’s computer system is not getting better with age.
“Let’s just say our computer system is limping along, at best,” Louis McGowan, the society’s president, said Monday night.
The technological limitations have prevented the nonprofit organization from conducting the most thorough possible research on the town’s history.
However, the issue will be alleviated soon, courtesy of Johnston state Rep. Deborah Fellela. McGowan on Monday called the veteran lawmaker “one of the best friends any nonprofit – most especially ours – has had during the past half-dozen years.”
For starters, Fellela recently applied for and received approval for a Rhode Island legislative grant exclusively for the Johnston Historical Society. Fellela announced the $1,500 grant during last Wednesday night’s presentation in front of a standing-room-only crowd inside the Museum Barn.
“That’s the most money I’ve ever received for the [Johnston] Historical Society,” Fellela said. “This grant is an increase of $500 and that is indeed huge and can – and hopefully will – go a long, long way for the small nonprofit.”
In recent years, Fellela has obtained $1,000 grants that have enabled the society to purchase different types of equipment that volunteers use for upkeep of the grounds and buildings. Those include the Elijah Angell House and Museum Barn, which are located at 101 Putnam Pike in Johnston.
“The historical society is a valuable organization here in town,” Fellela said. “The work and programs are important to our town’s great history. The Johnston Historical Society is without question an outstanding organization made up of great and dedicated people who help educated all our residents about Johnston.”
McGowan, meanwhile, added: “Now, we can do our work on a new computer system. We’re very excited and thankful for Deb’s efforts. This means we’ll be able to update all our records. Finally, we’ll have a computer system that’s user-friendly for all our people and members.”
Anyone who would like more information about the nonprofit, which meets the last Wednesday night of every month at 7 p.m. except July and August, should call 231-4980.
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