The Bedford Historical Foundation, a tax-exempt, non-profit organization in accordance with Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code, is legally structured to be the sole fund raising entity for historic preservation in the City of Bedford. The purpose of the Foundation is to identify, recognize, develop, promote and maintain those buildings, locations or activities within Bedford that carry historical significance. The Foundation marks its beginnings to the time when the initial project of restoring the Old Bedford School began. Nine members of the Historical Committee were asked to serve on the Bedford Historical Foundation to advise and oversee financial and other aspects of the restoration. Through many years of planning, researching, and rebounding from a setback as significant as the January 1991 fire, a multiphase program designed to ultimately restore the Old Bedford School to its original 1915 condition was initiated in late 1991. The Bedford Historical Foundation was integrally involved in uniting interested community members and actively seeking financial support to achieve the goal of returning the Old Bedford School to a position of prominence. The Foundation has grown into a positive action group and contributed thousands of man hours in researching Bedford's history and assuming management responsibility for the Old Bedford School.

The first major phase of the restoration was completed in June 1995, resulting in the beautiful rehabilitation of the original school structure. An adjoining addition houses rest rooms, and elevator, a refreshment area, gallery and storage space.

The newly reopened Old Bedford School and its five acre site affords residents and visitors alike an unparalleled opportunity to understand what life was like in past times and to understand a world quite different for the world in which we live today. One is able to literally take a walk through history to the agrarian sense of community which served the schoolhouse when it was built.

The foundation is supported by its members, the City of Bedford and grants. A membership form is available for printing, via a button on the left, if you would like to become a member of the Bedford Historical Foundation.

Many volunteer opportunities are available. Just because the Old Bedford School has been rebuilt and is now open to the public, does not mean that the work is done. In fact it has just really begun. Volunteers are needed for Membership drives, Grant writing, Landscaping, Office help, Docents and many other Foundation projects. If you are interested in applying your talents please contact any of the Bedford Historical Foundation members or the Foundation at the address or phone number above. You can also fill in the volunteer form available via a button on the left and mail it to the Foundation.