Hamptons Historical Society’s Executive Director Extends Tenure

Despite earlier reports that Richard Barons would retire, the East Hampton Historical Society (E.H.H.S.) has confirmed that Barons will stay on as Executive Director for another two years. “We are thrilled that Richard Barons has agreed to extend his tenure as the Executive Director of the East Hampton Historical Society,” shared Arthur (Tiger) Graham, E.H.H.S. Board President. “This will allow our growing organization to fully benefit from Richard’s exemplary curatorial expertise and historical knowledge.”

Barons’ decision to prolong his time at the E.H.H.S. was unanimously approved by the Society’s Board of Trustees.

“Somehow, turning 70 in April and celebrating 10 years, this month, at the East Hampton Historical Society—the planets were all in alignment—why not retire? There is that time when administration begins to dominate the workday and the research and writing you would like to do just gets shelved,” explained Barons. “But I was overwhelmed by how my news was received—genuine shock and disbelief. The more I thought about our decision (my wife is the Historical Society’s registrar) the more projects I felt I’d like to tackle or complete.” The Society plans to fully take advantage of Barons’ wealth of knowledge during the next two years. “With much gentle persuasion and discussion, my Board offered me a two-year plan where I would focus on interpretation, collections and exhibitions, all of which are the reasons I love to work at museums,” added Barons. “My wife and I will put off our ferry ride to Cape Cod for a while—it seems my work here is not done.”

To support Barons’ future projects, the East Hampton Historical Society has begun a search for an Associate Director, who will work in collaboration with the Executive Director on several tasks including financial reporting, personnel management, fundraising, and stewardship of historic properties and museum sites.

East Hampton Historical Society is located at 101 Main Street in East Hampton. For more information, call 631-324-6850 or visit www.easthamptonhistory.org.