Mission Statement - The American Heritage Museum

It is with profound sadness that the American Heritage Museum shares the passing of our friend and colleague, Chris Cassidy, on July 12, 2026. Starting as a volunteer back in 2010, helping us with the Race of the Century as a "wrench" and a driver in his spare time, Chris eventually joined us on staff before the American Heritage Museum opened. Since then, Chris served as our automobile caretaker, mechanic, and museum maintenance supervisor. He was a master machinist, an exceptional mechanic, and the person we trusted whenever something needed to be repaired, restored, or simply made to work again. Around the museum, the saying was simple: “If it’s broken, Chris can fix it.” That statement applied to whether it was a museum vehicle or one belonging to our volunteers or staff -- he always helped, no matter what. His knowledge, patience, and craftsmanship were invaluable to the care of our historic automobiles. In preparation for the annual Father's Day event, Chris spent many nights and weekends working on everything in the car barn to get it ready for the big show. Though maintaining such a wide range of vehicles could be stressful, he always cracked jokes with a smirk when the going got tough. Chris’s talents extended far beyond the museum. He was a champion lawn tractor puller, a renowned go-kart builder and racer, and loved his R/C cars and slot cars. If it had wheels and went fast, Chris was there! His lucky number was 13 because, as he liked to say, he always finished first or third—never second. For all his accomplishments, Chris was most proud of his family. He was a devoted father and grandfather who treasured the time he spent with his beloved grandson, Jamison. He was also a trusted friend who never hesitated to lend a hand, share his knowledge, or help make someone’s day a little easier. Chris’s legacy cannot be measured only by the engines he rebuilt, the races he won, or the historic machines he preserved. It lives in the people he helped, the lessons he shared, and the example he set through hard work, kindness, and quiet generosity. Our hearts are broken by his loss, and his absence will be felt throughout the museum for years to come. Rest easy, Chris. Your work here is done, but your legacy will keep running strong for generations. ... See MoreSee Less

The Mission of the American Heritage Museum

Preserving America’s Heritage, honoring those who served, Educating, and Inspiring Future Generations

We honor and sustain America’s heritage by collecting, preserving, and exhibiting artifacts and historic material that recount our nation’s rich history, culture, values, and innovative achievements.

We seek to educate by offering immersive exhibits, interactive displays, lectures, events, and outreach programs to enlighten people of all ages and backgrounds about the spirit, valor, optimism, and opportunity that have shaped America.

We proudly serve to inspire an appreciation for America’s rich heritage for it remains the foundation by which future generations will strengthen our nation through their integrity, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Methodology

The American Heritage Museum seeks to engage, educate, entertain and enlighten its audiences in the history of our military and veterans through a chronologically arranged series of exhibits and educational interpretation. We do this through a focus on three themes:

The history of the American fight for independence and the preservation of democracy through history.

The role of the American citizen soldier in the battles fought.

And the role of technology and innovation in the defense of these servicemen and servicewomen.

The American Heritage Museum is additionally committed to the development of living history events within Massachusetts to provide inspiration to our future generations.

The Mission of the American Heritage Museum

Methodology

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