Valentine's Day dinner bridges generations in Penobscot

Penobscot Community School 8th graders who helped with the dinner included, from left, Liam Gray, Thatcher Holderby, Hollis Skillin and Saffron SImmons. Photo courtesy of the Penobscot Historical Society.

Feb. 10, 2026

By staff

PENOBSCOT–Eighth graders from the Penobscot Community School and their parents prepared and served a Valentine's Day dinner for members of the Penobscot Historical Society on Feb. 8. 

More than 30 people attended the event held at the Penobscot United Methodist Church in an event that bridged multiple generations, organizers said.

In appreciation for the students' hard work, the historical society donated $1,000 to support the 8th grade’s upcoming class trip to Boston, enabling the students to further explore the rich history of the region, according to a press release from the historical society.

“The event provided a platform for the community to come together, share stories, and celebrate the rich heritage of Penobscot. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the students' efforts and the opportunity to connect with the younger generation,” the release said.

The collaboration marked the first of its kind between the historical society and the school. Plans are already underway for additional events that will allow students to delve deeper into the history of their town and engage with local historians, organizers said.

“The success of this dinner highlights the importance of community involvement in education,” said Penobscot Historical Society president Alden Blodget. “We are excited to explore more opportunities to work with the students and help them appreciate the unique history of Penobscot.”

The Valentine's dinner featured a family style menu. Students set up, decorated, and served the meal. Society members contributed door prizes and made individual donations to help defray costs.  

“This event was a wonderful way for our students to engage with the community and learn about the history of Penobscot,” said Anna Woolsey, a parent of one of the eight graders. “We are thrilled to have received such a generous donation to help our class trip, and we hope this is just the beginning of many more collaborations between our school and the Historical Society.”

For more information about the Penobscot Historical Society and upcoming events, please visit the organization’s Facebook page.