The New Canaan Historical Society is planning an exciting Spring Weekend celebration. The festivities begin on Sunday, June 2nd with the 25th annual Ice Cream Social under the big tent on the great lawn, and will be followed by a special program about the rebirth of the oldest house in New Canaan entitled, Saving the Past: The Story of a Home on Monday, June 3rd at the Town House. The Ice Cream Social takes place rain or shine from 1pm-4pm, and Monday night’s fascinating program begins at 8pm, following the Society’s annual meeting. Both events are open to the public and take place at 13 Oenoke Ridge in New Canaan.
Sunday, June 2nd: The 25th Annual New Canaan Historical Society’s Ice Cream Social
The community is invited to come out and enjoy an old-fashioned Sunday afternoon outing under the big tent with The Town Band directed by Brad Williams. Gather together with friends, family and neighbors as you enjoy rich and refreshing ice cream courtesy of Baskin-Robbins and delicious cakes donated by the New Canaan Charity Leagues. As you nibble, take in special demonstrations of spinning and weaving at the Hanford-Silliman House Museum and printing demonstrations on the Smith-Hoe Acorn Press in the Print Shop. Visit the Society’s book sale, featuring exceptional books on arts and antiques. Children can participate in fun activities on the lawn and there will be antique and classic cars on display. Come meet the cars’ owners and vote for your favorite to win the Peoples’ Choice Award. All of the museums on the Society’s campus will be open, including the John Rogers Studio, Rock School, Cody Drug Store, Tool Museum and Hanford-Silliman House. Off campus, the Little Red Schoolhouse on Carter Street will be open from 1:30 – 3:30 where docents who went to the school will tell their remembrances of attending this New Canaan treasure. End the day listening to classics by a saxophone quartet. The Ice Cream Social will be held rain or shine, and is generously sponsored by Walter Stewart’s Market, as well as Baskin-Robbins and The Bank of New Canaan.
Monday, June 3rd: A special panel program, Saving the Past: The Story of a Home
If every home tells a story, imagine living in a home that is 289 years old. Echoing with history, the Benedict -Eels -Thatcher House is the oldest existing house in New Canaan and on Monday, June 3rd the New Canaan Historical Society proudly presents a fascinating program featuring its rebirth. Come to Saving the Past: The Story of a Home, where you will enjoy a panel presentation of this home, which was built circa 1724 by Deacon John Benedick,Jr. for his son John Benedick,Jr. Homeowner Libby Butterworth will delight you with the story of the house and its sprit within. Architect Tom Smith from the architectural firm of Faesey/Smith will discuss how the home was updated without losing the home’s original character, and builder John Ulicki will share stories of the trials, tribulations and special details of the project. Together, the panel will share how they perfectly integrated old with new to create an end result that is masterful. The presentation takes place at 8pm, is free and refreshments will be served. The annual meeting for members of the New Canaan Historical Society will proceed the program, beginning at 7:30pm.
About the New Canaan Historical Society The New Canaan Historical Society seeks to educate and enlighten the public in an atmosphere that is welcoming, friendly and fun by offering innovative educational exhibitions and programs for adults, children and families. The New Canaan Historical Society is a not-for-profit, privately supported, educational facility. Please visit www.nchistory.org for more information.
