Armenian Photo Exhibit @Kelley Library

The pictures are part of a collection taken by Tom Vartabedian during two trips to Armenia in 2006 and 2009. Vartabedian paid particular attention to life in the outlying regions of this historic land, “A country’s history is best told through the faces and character of its people,” said Vartabedian. “The flame of nationhood continues to burn in their hearts, no matter what their plight may be.” The exhibit commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide which is being observed this year throughout the world, paying tribute to 1.5 million martyrs who were killed during the Ottoman Turkish Empire.
Vartabedian spent 40 years as a writer and photographer for The Haverhill Gazette before retiring in 2007 with numerous awards from United Press International, Associated Press and New England Press Association. His columns on local figures and events continue to be featured weekly.