High School Volunteer Honored for Outstanding Service: Spencer Martin Named Historical Society of Scotch Plains & Fanwood Student Volunteer of the Year
Spencer Martin (in tricorn hat) with other Historical Society Volunteers on the side porch of the Osborn Cannonball House Museum.
Spencer Martin, a junior at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School (SPFHS), has been recognized as the Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood (Historical Society) Student Volunteer of the Year. As the founder and co-president of the SPFHS History Club, Spencer has forged a vital connection between local students and the Historical Society since the Fall of 2023. Prior to his involvement, student volunteers were rare. There now exists a meaningful bridge between the SPFHS History Club and the Historical Society linking our towns past with its present.
Spencer has organized volunteers to help out at the Osborn Cannonball House Museum, one of Scotch Plains’ Revolutionary War-era sites, by managing students who volunteer for two of the museum’s biggest events. Alongside Historical Society members, students serve as docents giving tours of the museum and aiding children with crafts and games. Visitors to the museum have remarked how encouraging it is to see students involved in the preservation of their local history.
In addition to volunteering his time to the museum, in May of this year, Spencer spearheaded a fundraiser on the museum’s behalf. Over $1,000 was raised to help support the preservation of the museum building. His passion and commitment to local history also earned him a seat on the Historical Society’s Board of Directors, where he serves as its first student and youngest member.
Spencer’s drive, dedication and leadership skills make him an ideal candidate for this award. His outstanding academic record and his involvement in other activities and community organizations outside the Historical Society only highlight his achievements.
The collaboration between the SPFHS History Club and the Historical Society is an inspiring example of how different generations can come together to support a common cause. Both organizations are optimistic that this partnership will remain strong. The Historical Society looks forward to continuing working with Spencer and future History Club students who will follow in Spencer’s footsteps. Together, we will keep history alive across all generations.
