Peterborough Historical Society owns and operates Hutchison House Museum, built by the community as a house and office for Dr. John Hutchison in the 1830s. Through volunteer programs and special presentations for the general public, school groups and day camps, Hutchison House interprets the lives and heritage of its past occupants, Dr. John Hutchison, Sir Sandford Fleming, James Harvey and their families.

     Although few people plan the amount and timing of their charitable gifts solely with tax and financial contributions in mind, there are ways to give that enhance the value of your gifts and increase the satisfaction you derive from making them. Here are some ideas that you may want to consider.

     Gifts Of Cash Or Cheques are the most common form of charitable gifts. Gifts of cash provide the Peterborough Historical Society and Hutchison House Museum with immediate benefits, and provide the donor with income tax deductions. Gifts in memory of family members or special friends ensure a continual memorial, and support for Hutchison House.

     A Variety Of Planned (deferred) Gift Arrangements can be made to provide income for you or other individuals during their lifetime in addition to providing a tax deduction. Your gift will increase the Hutchison House Trusts Fund endowment after the death of the trust's income beneficiary. There many kinds of deferred gifts, including a life-income gift through a charitable trust or charitable gift annuity, or a charitable lead trust. Some offer a steady income and some provide for income growth. A deferred gift is particularly attractive when funded with appreciated, low-yielding securities.

     A Bequest in your will to Peterborough Historical Society, Hutchison House Trusts Fund, is an excellent way to ensure that the Peterborough Historical Society and Hutchison House will be able to provide their services for years to come. Even during your lifetime you can name the Society or the House as a beneficiary for annuities, life insurance, real estate, securities, artifacts, books, art and other types of gifts.

     Gifts Of Appreciated Securities offer some advantages over a cash gift. First, you may avoid capital gains in some circumstances.  Second, you realize a tax deduction for the full market value of the securities. Thus, while providing the Society or the House with immediate benefits, your gift will offer financial benefits to you as well.

     The Hutchison House Trusts Fund was established by the Peterborough Historical Society 27 January 1983 to be used for "the restoration, maintenance and operation of the said Hutchison House." There are two streams within the Trusts Fund. First, gifts may be endowed, and only the interest will be used for the ongoing operations of Hutchison House. Gifts given in memoriam are endowed. Second, gifts may be given to the Maintenance Fund; the principal and interest is expended as required. Third, gifts that meet the criteria of the Historical Society may be given for specific or discretionary purposes.

     We suggest that you consult with your own tax and legal advisors to determine what method is best for you. In addition, our trustees will be happy to help you with information about any of these options. Please contact us at (705) 740-2600 or history@nexicom.net and we will assist you.

     Both donations during your lifetime and bequests in your will are essential to the lifeblood of Hutchison House. Friends who support the work of the House can guarantee its future.