Cape Ann Museum’s head librarian and archivist has left to take on a new role as executive director of the Lexington History Museums.
Trenton Carls finished his work in Gloucester and will start his new job Tuesday, Sept. 2.
“Trenton has the skill set and passion for history that are just what we were looking for in our new executive director,” Lexington History Museums Board President Craig Sandler said. “He’s certain to make a positive impression on Lexington and the region, and his fine way with people combined with his talent are going to enhance our impact for the good of the community.”
Carls, who spent six years at the two-campus Cape Ann Museum, will now lead the Lexington organization into its next era.
“I speak for our entire organization when I say that we are very pleased and excited to welcome our new executive director,” said board member Marian A.O. Cohen, who headed the search.
“Trenton’s energy, intelligence, and dedication to excellence will be invaluable as the Lexington History Museums moves into the future. We look forward to working with Trenton as we share the story of Lexington, grow our organization, and expand our programs.”
Carls is eager to join the organization in Lexington that in April hosted the 250th commemoration of the start of the Revolutionary War with the reenactment of the Battle of Lexington. Founded in 1886, the Lexington History Museums serve as the interpreter of the events of April 1775, and comprise three 18-century buildings.
In fact, this past April, the Lexington Historical Society rebranded to became the Lexington History Museums (LMH), which opened a new museum in the town center with the Lexington Depot to share new stories with the public.
“With the energy surrounding the Revolution 250 anniversary, the transition to becoming LHM, and the grand opening of the Depot museum, it is an exciting time to be connected to such an impactful institution,” Carls said.
Carls, who took innovative steps to bring residents and visitors into the Gloucester museum, said he looks forward to continuing to find ways to “spark curiosity, inspire joy, and build community.
“The Lexington History Museums stands out in New England as a leader in historical interpretation and education,” he said.
Looking ahead, 2026 will be an important year because it’s the national anniversary of the 1776 Declaration of Independence.
“With the renewed national focus on the Revolutionary era, I think there will be a lot of traffic in Lexington,” Carls said. “People easily connect Lexington with the American Revolutionary period but there is also an awareness that there are countless years of community history to be told.”
A Salem resident, Carls serves as a board member of the House of Seven Gables. In previous jobs, Carls served as digital projects and metadata librarian for the New England Historic Genealogical Society in Boston, and technical services librarian for the Chicago History Museum.
At Cape Ann Museum, Carls’ impact was broad, from navigating the COVID-19 pandemic to create ways for people to access the museum’s collections and materials to curating the highly successful special exhibition “Above the Fold: The Photographers of the ‘Gloucester Daily Times,’ 1973-2005.” This exhibition brought many people into the museum who had not visited the institution before that time.
Carls also redesigned the library and research center that reopened to the public in 2021, which led to an increase in visitation. Additionally, he launched the first online catalog and digital collections site for the library and archives department.
Gail McCarthy may be contacted at 978-675-2706, or gmccarthy@northofboston.com.