Category: Kent Historical Society Kent

“Camps of Kent” Wins Award of Merit

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

“Camps of Kent” Exhibit Wins CLHO Award of Merit

 

The Kent Historical Society 2015 Exhibit, “Camps of Kent: Memories of Summer” has been honored by the Connecticut League of History Organizations with their Award of Merit. The award letter declared, “The Committee highly commends the Kent Historical Society for creating an exhibit that explored this previously undocumented aspect of the town’s history. The committee was impressed with the amount of original research that was conducted and the extra effort that was made to reach out to the community to collect and share the stories and artifacts of both the camps and the campers who came to Kent.”

Marge Smith and Melissa Cherniske co-curated this exhibit  and did a tremendous job, particularly guest curator Melissa Cherniske. Her personal experience and passion for the camp experience shone through every facet of the exhibit.

For more information on the award-winning exhibit please click here.

 

Walking Tour offers look at historic buildings

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

Walking Tour offers look at historic buildings

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Each of the buildings in the Village Center of Kent has a history and a Walking Tour was held July 17 to reveal some of the secrets behind some of the oldest structures.

Kent Historical Society Curator Marge Smith led the tour along Maple Street, Main Street and Bridge Street, with assistance from Trustee Melissa Cherniske. It was designed to be coordinated with the current exhibition of historic postcards, “Greetings from Kent,” that is on display in the Swift House.

A large group of 26 people listened and added their own knowledge as periodic stops were made at specific historic buildings. A booklet was provided to each participant and copies are available for a self-guided tour.

Smith explained that Kent’s vibrant Village Center grew up around the arrival of the railroad in 1847. The center of town moved from Flanders, which is further north, to where it is now. This is why most of the buildings along Main Street are from the Victorian era and feature the ornate decorations of that time, she explained.

There were many stories that were shared by Smith and others participating. One of the more humorous tales told was about the home of Eugene Bull Sr., who moved his home off Main Street, where JP Giffords market is currently, to Maple Street but his wife wanted to be back on Main Street. So he moved the house back, with the woman still inside! When his wife died months later, he moved the building back to Maple Street.

“That is the only building that I’ve heard of that was moved back and forth,” she said.

Smith explained that it was quite common for buildings to be moved years ago, perhaps because of the sturdy timber frame construction and the lack of overhead electrical wires to contend with.

A number of people added their own memories and knowledge to the discussion. Resident John Barton shared some of his memories of growing up in town and meeting characters, such as Bart Seger. He also explained that restoration work was done during the 1950s on several of the houses to help preserve them and make them look as they do today. Others were torn down to make way for commercial development and Smith showed images of the houses that were destroyed.

Patsy Stroble, who is a member of the First Congregational Church of Kent and is very involved in the church’s 275th Anniversary Committee this year, shared stories about how the church was first organized in 1741 and how the building expanded after being constructed in 1849.

Sunday Summer Series: July 20th, Aug 17th & Sept 21st

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

Legend of Molly Fisher Rock draws interest

The various legends of Molly Fisher Rock were explored in May through a lecture and hike to the actual location. Those attending a talk in Town Hall May 15 learned that there are various theories of why there are markings on the large rock and what they might mean. A hike in cooperation with the Kent Land Trust drew a crowd over over 40 people May 21 and participants hike up the hill to a ridge, where the rock is located.

Now covered with quite a bit of moss and lichen, the markings are getting harder and harder to see, but Chris Harrington and KHS Trustee Roger Gonzales were able to spot them and point them out to everyone. Gonzales explained that the rock has been certified as Celtic site and he told the story of folk singer, U. Utah Phillips, who visited the area and pointed out the eye of Horus on another rock. It is a natural formation of quartz that creates a human eye.

“We were climbing up and he said, ‘you never told me anything about the circle,’ “ Gonzales said. “He said, ‘You’re standing right in the middle of it.’ “

There were a number of stones is a big clearing, he explained. Gonzales also pointed out how the Molly Fisher Rock aligns with another rock during the Summer Soltice.

During the Sunday Series lecture, Alicia North of Cornwall and Chris Harrington of Kent shared stories about growing up on the property and being taken to the rock by their grandfather. The legend is published by the Bulls Bridge Inn on their web site.
South Kent School teacher Pat Bonis finished up the talk by sharing how he likes to take his students to the rock and share the mysteries about it, because they are fascinated by the stories. The area was formed by glaciers but he said it is quite unusual to have such large rocks at the top of a ridge.

George Laurence Nelson Art Scholarship 2016 Awarded

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

George Laurence Nelson Art Scholarship Awarded to Chris Moore

In honor of noted American artist George Laurence Nelson, one of the founders of the Kent Art Association, the Kent Historical Society offers a scholarship of $1,000 to any graduating high school senior or college student from Kent intending to further their education in studio art or art history. 

The 2016 scholarship has been awarded to Christopher Moore, who is a student at Emmanuel College, where he is studying art history and art criticism. As a graduate of Kent Center School and summer intern working with the Society’s Nelson art collection, Moore’s longstanding interest in George Laurence Nelson’s artwork and its reception made him a natural choice for the scholarship. A letter of recommendation from Dr. Anna Knaap, one of his professors at Emmanuel, praised his writing ability and his ability to see deeper into subtle aspects of various works of art. “In his paper on the Crucifixion by the late Gothic painter Duccio, he picked up on more subtle elements, such as the gray toned coloring of Christ’s body that would have appealed to the viewer’s emotions and the varied responses of the figures witnessing the scene.  In these papers, Christopher demonstrated both his writing skills and ability to observe sophisticated and seemingly inconspicuous details in works of art.  In short, he digs deeper than his peers. In sum, Christopher has demonstrated very strong academic, communication, and leadership skills in his first year at Emmanuel College.  He is a fine art historian, a talented writer, and a valuable teacher to his peers.  I therefore strongly recommend him for the George Laurence Nelson Art Scholarship.”

The Kent Historical Society is located at Seven Hearths, which was the home of George Laurence Nelson and has a permanent display of his original art works.  This home, at 4 Studio Hill Road, is a reminder that Kent has a rich and diversified historical past.  In supporting young artistic talent we hope to keep this tradition ongoing.

‘Greetings from Kent’ Showcased Historic Postcards

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

‘Greetings from Kent’ showcased historic postcards

We thank everyone who visited the Society’s 2016 summer exhibit, “Greetings from Kent: An exhibition of historic postcards” at the town-owned Swift House. The final days of the exhibit coincided with the Kent Sidewalk Festival in early August and the inaugural Kent Arts Night, Aug. 20. There were many people who took advantage of the opportunities to see the show.

Reaction to the exhibit, “Greetings from Kent: An exhibition of historic postcards,” was extremely positive.

Some of the comments shared in the guest book included: “Love the show, history’s the best, interesting photos; Awesome history tour! Thank you for this trip back in time. Grew up in Kent. Great trip down memory lane! What a great exhibit. Super! This was great. Thank You! Great fun and memories. Love it! Nice job!”

Visitors to the special location, the town-owned historic building, the Swift House, discovered enlarged postcards that fill the walls of the building. Those who’ve lived in town for years delighted in seeing the older buildings and remembering who lived and worked in the areas depicted in the postcards. Newcomers to Kent saw the similarities and the differences in the scenes shown that range from Main Street to farming in the outer reaches of town.

The Kent Historical Society celebrated postcards with the exhibit that showcased the local landscape as seen through the lens of postcard photographers.

There is much to be celebrated in what postcards can provide – a look back at the town of Kent over more than 100 years. Many of these images were from postcard kits that were popular for individuals to create their own cards. The Historical Society put this exhibition together through loans from local residents and collectors, as well as its own collection. Trustee Melissa Cherniske was the guest curator.

We are thankful to those who assisted by sharing their personal collection: Susie Rundall, Michael Ward, Susi Williams and Gail Tobin.

We are indebted to our volunteer docents at the summer historic postcard exhibit, “Greetings from Kent” and particularly to Kathi Lee, who served as our volunteer coordinator this summer. We had a small but dedicated group of people who made sure the exhibit was open on Sunday afternoons in June and July and several gave additional time in August for the special exhibit hours. Our special thanks to: Catherine Bachrach, Susan Begnal, Darlene Brady, Jann Carmody Tanner, Melissa Cherniske, Claire Lee, Kathi Lee, Charlotte Lindsey, Linda Palmer, Lynn Mellis Worthington, Rick Levy and Sue Lopardo. The Society could not have offered this exhibit without their volunteer assistance!

Postcard production began in the 1800s, with the first patent being approved in 1861, according to the Smithsonian Institution Archives. Postcards were a popular form of correspondence because they were quick and an easy way to communicate. The Golden Age of Postcards was from 1907 to 1915, according to the Smithsonian.

This special exhibit featured large enlarged images of postcards. There were also a number of reproduction postcards available for purchase.

The show was open weekly on Sundays June through July,  as well as some additional hours in August.

 

 

Musicale delights with Spirited Tea

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

Musicale benefit delights with Spirited Tea

The Society owes many thanks to the supporters and attendees of the Musicale & Spirited Tea Party that was held Sunday, April 17. We are also indebted to everyone who volunteered their time to ensure its success. Proceeds from the event will go toward matching a grant from the Connecticut Trust for HIstoric Preservation for exterior restoration of the Kent Historical Society’s Seven Hearths Museum.

The Kent Community House was dazzling with the elegant decorations, beautiful flowers and scrumptious treats that were created from authentic recipes hailing back to the 1800s.  

The event would not have happened without the dedication of Patsy Stroble, who took on the task of creating an inventive menu, led two baking workshops, and presented a magnificent and plentiful buffet of tea treats, including a three-tier cake iced to perfection by her daughter, Kari Morales.

Frank Delaney was absolutely wonderful, sharing his wit in his clever introduction to our “Spirited Tea Party.” He took us back to look at the history of hosting teas and delighted those attending with several readings, including one from Alice in Wonderland.

Co-chairs Zanne Charity and Bruce Whipple organized and coordinated a spectacular afternoon, taking us back to the 19th Century with entertainment, food, and beverages, of the period, including a “spirited punch”

The Benefit Steering Committee put many creative hours into planning and mounting the event. Those members are: Liddy Baker, Melissa Cherniske, Beth Dooley, Jackie Markham, Wendy Murphy, Julia Samartini, Patsy Stroble, Kate Vick, and Lynn Mellis Worthington.

  • Special thanks to:
    Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kissinger, for helping to underwrite the event
    Davis IGA
    First Congregational Church of Kent
    Harney Tea
    Kent Greenhouse                       
    Kent Wine & Spirit 
    Town of Kent

There were many others who contributed to the success of event.

Those who attended the Baking Workshops helped by creating the splendid array of sweet and savory treats that were served, and others assisted with last minute preparation of edibles on Sunday morning: Lynn Ainsworth, Judy Flynn, Carol Franken, Ellen Horovitz, Adele Johnson, Jody Lampe, Adriana Martinez, Anne Penner, Judy Pinkerton, Allan Priaulx, and Judy Warrick.

We also thank four Marvelwood School students, Maggie Everett, Victoria Sanchez, Isabelle Cameron and Lauren Greiner, who volunteered an entire day to take care of so many little details – everything from setting place settings to delivering tea to the tables.

There were just shy of 100 people in attendance. They enjoyed the punches created with Harney teas, the wide variety of food that was beautifully arranged on the center buffet table, and the opportunity to listen to authentic and historically accurate music from the 19th century performed by the Rosewood Chamber Ensemble.

There were over 50 people who donated to this event, in addition to those who purchased tickets and attended. We’d like to extend our thanks to everyone who contributed.

There were a number of people who pitched in to help in advance, or wherever needed on the day of the event: Darlene Brady, Lawrence Charity, Darrell Cherniske, Mike Everett, Kent Freeman, Adriana Martinez, Toni Presti, Michael Ward, John Worthington, and Jane Zatlin. Also thanks to Lazlo Gyorsok, who took photographs throughout the event.

 

Summer Art Enrichment Scholarship

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

Summer Art Enrichment Scholarship

The Kent Historical Society is offering a need-based scholarship to students at the Summer Art Enrichment program, thanks to a grant from KentPresents.

Download Scholarship Form (pdf version). Email or mail the form to KHS Summer Art Scholarship, PO Box 651, Kent, CT 06757.

KHS is pleased to be among the 26 non-profit organizations serving Litchfield County receiving funds from KentPresents, the annual ideas festival that was first held in Kent during August 2015.

All groups receiving awards provide social and emergency services, housing, educational and economic opportunities and enhance the cultural and artistic lives of low and moderate income individuals and families in Kent and nearby communities. In selecting the recipients, special emphasis was placed on basic needs, emergency services and education programs, such as the art education program that the Kent Historical Society provides.

Musicale and Spirited Tea Party

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

Musicale and Spirited Tea Party

Join the Kent Historical Society on a trip to the 19th century to experience a Musicale and Spirited Tea Party on Sunday, April 17th at 2:30 p.m. at the Kent Community House.

There will be glorious tunes played by the Rosewood Chamber Ensemble on antique instruments, including flutes made in neighboring Litchfield harkening back to the 19th century, and a guitar of the same make and model played by Mark Twain. And, to accompany the lively songs and dances that one would have heard at an American “musicale” party during that period of time, there will be an amazing array of glorious treats, both sweet and savory, researched and presented under the direction of our “Food Angel,” Patsy Stroble.

In keeping with our time travel to the 19th century, there will be other surprises awaiting as well. We are delighted that author and former BBC broadcaster Frank Delaney, who has a home in Kent, will be performing selected readings from the 19th century.

Proceeds from the benefit will go toward the restoration of Seven Hearths Museum. While exterior work is already underway, we must raise funds to match a generous grant from the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation to help complete the exterior phase of the Museum’s restoration before other work can take place. We hope you will join us in support of this endeavor.

This special event will showcase musicians Barbara Hopkins on flute and Judy Handler on guitar. Hopkins will be playing period flutes, including her wooden Asa Hopkins flute made in Litchfield, CT, in the 1830s. Handler will be playing a Martin parlor guitar that is the same make and model that Mark Twain owned and played.

The Rosewood Chamber Ensemble’s musical repertoire ranges from familiar Stephen Foster songs to lively dances and newly rediscovered music of the 19th century. Particularly interesting are the background stories they tell about the period, the music, and the flutes. One of the flutes is made from rosewood, and that combined with the rosewood in Handler’s guitar inspired the name Rosewood Chamber Ensemble.

Interested in the Baking Workshops with Patsy Stroble? Click here for more information.

Our thanks to our Committee Members:


Tickets

Reserve your tickets by filling out the form below and selecting which ticket package you prefer. Tickets will be held at the door. If you have any questions, email reservations@kenthistoricalsociety.org. If you are going to be a table host and do not have your guest list available at this time (or it changes), please email us with the information.

 

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George Laurence Nelson Art Scholarship 2018

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

ART SCHOLARSHIP IN KENT FOR DESERVING
STUDIO ART OR ART HISTORY STUDENT

In honor of noted American artist George Laurence Nelson, one of the founders of the Kent Art Association, the Kent Historical Society is offering a very special scholarship of $1,000 to a deserving student intending to further his or her education in studio art or art history.

The George Laurence Nelson Art Scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior or college student who is a graduate of Kent Center School, or whose family resides in any of the Region One towns (Canaan, Cornwall, Falls Village, Kent, Salisbury and Sharon). The application must be postmarked or received by the Society by May 1, 2018.

Applications have been supplied to the guidance offices of most high schools in the immediate area. Please click HERE for a copy of the application form.

The Kent Historical Society is located at Seven Hearths, which was the home of George Laurence Nelson and has a permanent display of his original art works. This home, at 4 Studio Hill Road, is a reminder that Kent has a rich and diversified historical past. In supporting young artistic talent we hope to keep this tradition ongoing.

For further information or to request an application for the George Laurence Nelson scholarship contact:

e-mail: scholarship@kenthistoricalsociety.org                                             

Tel: 860-927-4587

Kent Historical Society, PO Box 651, Kent, CT, 06757 (Please reference: Art Scholarship)

Giving Tuesday December

Posted on by Logan Wheeler

#GivingTuesday observed 12/1

Seven Hearths Campaign




The Kent Historical Society has joined #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. The Society is encouraging donors to support the re-clapboarding project that is currently underway at the Seven Hearths Museum.

If you’ve driven north of the Kent village center on Route 7, you’ve probably noticed a lot of work being done to the exterior of the Seven Hearths Museum. The Kent Historical Society has hired a firm, Cenaxo, to replace all of the clapboards on the building.
This is a big job and we were thrilled to be awarded a $15,000 grant from the 1772 Foundation through the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation. However, the grant is a matching grant and we are fortunate that some people have already stepped up to help with our fundraising.
 
We are taking advantage of #GivingTuesday Dec. 1 with the goal of raising 10 percent of what we’ll eventually need to satisfy the requirements of this grant. In a 24-hour period, we hope to bring in $1,500. We hope that you’ll take a few minutes and donate through PayPal to help us with this project. Of course, we are always willing to accept checks as well.
 

#GivingTuesday is held annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) and this year will be Dec. 1. We all recognize the shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday to kick-off the holiday giving season and #GivingTuesday has been designed to inspire people to collaborate in improving their local communities and to give back in impactful ways to the charities and causes they support.

We hope you’ll choose to support the Kent Historical Society!