Dedicated to preserving the legacy of a community treasure
through restoration, education, and arts.
““Old buildings are not ours. They belong partly to those who build them, and partly to the generations of mankind who are to follow us. The dead still have their right in them, that which they led...we have no right to obliterate.”
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Old Southworth Library has been a treasured feature of the historic village of Padanaram since John Haywood Southworth donated the building for public use in 1890. Countless children and adults found its charming, book-lined interior to be a haven, providing culture, education, and entertainment. Even as the library expanded to a new location, Old Southworth Library continued its legacy of serving the public. Times have changed since 1890, but our need for a sense of place in our hometown remains strong.
Dartmouth Cultural Center seeks to preserve this community asset, known as Olde Southworth, maintain its long legacy as a public resource, and use it as a neighborhood community center for the arts. On September 1, 2018, the Town of Dartmouth awarded a lease for the Olde Southworth library to the Dartmouth Cultural Center, Inc. We could not be happier as we look forward to a mutually rewarding partnership with the Town, and with the ongoing pursuit of cultural activities for our community and beyond. Classes, lectures, and workshops are available now for all to enjoy. As we progress into this inaugural semester, charitable events and classes will be announced. Local artists, artisans, and historians now have opportunities to present these programs and to display their work, thereby enriching the quality of life for local residents.
Please check our updated Events page.
Explore our selection of classes and programs:
2019 Summer program online the beginning of June.
Our fall schedule of classes and workshops is on-line today. You'll be surprised at the wide range of classes and workshops, from Wreath Making, to Yoga, to Poetry, to Portrait Painting, there's something for everyone!
About
Find out about our organization, mission, our methods, and the goals for the future.
Take Action
Ready to take the next step? You can become a member, a contributor to our cause, volunteer, or participate in programs.