Northfield, MA Celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Hostelling in the United States

Hostelling Internation will celebrate it’s 75th anniversary in the United States this week. Governor Deval Patrick has declared August 23-30 as Hostelling International Week in Massachusetts in honor of Massachusetts distinction as home to America’s first Hostel, which opened in Northfield, MA in 1934.

Hostelling International New England will celebrate the anniversary with a series of events around the Commonwealth, including the dedication of a plaque at the site of America’s first hostel in Northfield, founded by Isabelle and Monroe Smith. Hostelling International New England will also host an open house this week at the Martha’s Vineyard and Truro hostels, opening the doors for local visitors and neighbors to visit these hotels.

As part of its mission, the organization works to promote global awareness and cultural understanding through education and community participation.  HI-New England operates several programs which offer community service opportunities, educational programs, and intercultural exchange for both guests and local community members.  Each year more than 2,000 people participate in these community-based programs and activities in Massachusetts.

Next week also marks the 100^th anniversary of Hostelling worldwide.

75^th Anniversary Week Event Info

Sunday, August 23

Northfield, Mass.

2:00 p.m.

Plaque Dedication at former hostel site

88 Main Street

2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Reception

Centennial House Bed and Breakfast

Wednesday, August 26

Martha’s Vineyard Hostel

5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Open House

Edgartown-West Tisbury Road

Vineyard Haven, Mass.

Sunday, August 30

Truro Hostel

1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Open House

North Pamet Road

Truro, Mass.