New Years always brings resolutions. You know, when you resolve to do something differently, generally better. ChatGPT tells me that in the U.S. the top four categories most people vow to make change include health/fitness, financial well-being, personal growth/happiness and mental health/stress management.
Recent surveys taken in 2025, however, show some changes in the ratings race. Resolutions pertaining to financial goals, how to save more money, specifically, now outpace traditional health and fitness goals that have held the top spots for years. Not surprisingly, mental health concerns and happiness are now neck and neck with general health and financial health.
You’re probably asking what does this have to do with the Wheat Ridge Historical Society or the history of our beloved city? Though the specific content may not be directly linked, the trend toward reorganization of goals shares some parallels. Fortunately, the powers that be in our society have been working, looking at ways to make your Historical Society more relevant and more enjoyable. Changes are coming to the Historical Society – not all at once, mind you, but they will be constant through 2026 and beyond.
The first change will be in the roll-out of new offerings, and some rebundling, of the Second Saturday Socials, generally held at the Baugh House but sometimes at the Historical Park. Stories about how Wheat Ridge was originally settled and how it grew to be a city of over 32,400 citizens abound. The Wheat Ridge Historical Society is in the business of recording and cataloging those stories. We have a great many, but they are by no means all. We look forward to sharing local history in a story-telling fashion at “Tales of Days Gone By” on Saturday, January 10 at the Baugh House from 10:00 to 2:00. Join us for some insight to the fascinating events and characters who built this city – and bring your own stories. We’re always looking for more!
February’s Second Saturday offering has been around for a while, but it will take on a different form come February 14. “Hostess with the Mostest,” Bonnie Botham, will once again greet visitors for two rounds of tea and delectable treats, everything from crumpets to scones with clotted cream and lemon curd. Guests will enjoy a peek into fashions of the past (think bustles and bustiers) at the Historical Fashion Show. Tea will be served at 11:00 and 1:00; tickets are available at wheatridgehistoricalsociety.org on the home page.
But that’s not all, we’re on top of spring and plan to welcome warmer weather and garden planning with an old favorite, the plant exchange, on March 14th, and a new favorite on April 11, a Community Song Fest, a regular old “Hootenanny.” Plan to bring your instrument, or just your voice.
Make a resolution to join us. We promise you’ll be less stressed, happier, satisfied by your wealth of new information – and able to save money you would have blown at the mall. (Most of our events are free!)
