German Christmas at the Tavern presented by Patti Kierys</h1> <article> <h1>German Christmas at the Tavern presented by Patti Kierys</h1> <p>Richard — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 22:50:00 GMT</p> <div><font face="Arial" size="2"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">This year's "German Christmas", an educational and Christmas social, sponsored by the Barkhamsted Historical Society and presented by Christmas expert Patti Kierys was a huge success. The program was both educational and fun. Patti is well versed and well qualified on the subject of Christmas traditions and shared her vast wealth of knowledge with approximately 60 people who were in attendance. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"> <a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture909.aspx"></a><br /><em>(photo) Patti Kierys during her presentation of German Christmas at the Tavern.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Patti's qualifications include designing Christmas trees during the Weiker and Roland years at the Connecticut Governor's Mansion. She has designed ornaments for the Mark Twain Christmas Tree. Patti created two trees for the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Patti decorated the Connecticut Christmas tree for two years that was part of the National Tree ceremony on the Eclipse of White House. Patti also took part in the Wasdworth Festival of Trees for several years. In addition to her extensive experience, Patti is also a featured artist in the book <em>Christmas in Connecticut</em>.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture908.aspx"></a><br /><em>(photo) Christmas in Connecticut - Examples of Patti Kiery's hand-made ornaments</em><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman"> </font></font> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Patti shared many stories about the origins of the Christmas tree, Christmas tree decorating, hand made ornaments, gingerbread and other Christmas traditions. It is widely believed that the Christmas tree tradition emerged in Germany in the 16th century. However, the Yule or winter festival celebrated on the winter solstice can be traced to Roman times and also involved the decorating of a tree.<sup>1</sup> The Egyptians, even though they did not decorate a tree, would bring a green date palm tree into their homes to symbolize life's success during the solstice.<sup>2</sup> One of the stories Patti shared was that during early colonial times, Christmas trees were actually outlawed because of their association with these earlier pagan rituals. The Puritans considered Christmas to be sacred and believed it should only be observed with a religious service. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture907.aspx"></a><br /><em>(photo) The Christmas tree used during the German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">"The pilgrims' second governor, William Bradford, wrote that he tried hard to stamp out "pagan mockery" of the observance, penalizing any frivolity. The influential Oliver Cromwell preached against "the heathen traditions" of Christmas carols, decorated trees, and any joyful expression that desecrated "that sacred event." In 1659, the General Court of Massachusetts enacted a law making any observance of December 25 (other than a church service) a penal offense; people were fined for hanging decorations. That stern solemnity continued until the 19th century, when the influx of German and Irish immigrants undermined the Puritan legacy."<sup>3</sup> </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">John Ullmann, a former owner of the building we refer to as <a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/content/squireshistory.aspx">Squire's Tavern</a>, was one of these immigrants. He and his family immigrated from Germany in 1884 and purchased the former Squire's farm in 1885.</span></p></span> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><sup></sup></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><br /><em>(photo) Ullmann Family portrait. John and Augusta, Johanna-Oswald and thee girls.</em><br /></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">"Most 19th-century Americans found Christmas trees an oddity. The first record of one being on display was in the 1830s by the German settlers of Pennsylvania, although trees had been a tradition in many German homes much earlier. The Pennsylvania German settlements had community trees as early as 1747. But, as late as the 1840s Christmas trees were seen as pagan symbols and not accepted by most Americans."<sup>4 </sup></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture905.aspx"></a><br /><em>(photo) Table top Christmas tree used during the German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Patti explained that early American Christmas trees were very often small table top trees. These trees were placed in a room and kept off limits while being decorated. They would not be displayed until Christmas eve. The trees would have had hand made ornaments. Many were figures comprised of paper faces and cotton batting. Sweetmeats and gingerbread were baked and hung on the tree. Guests would have been invited to take these baked treats. Popcorn garlands would also adorn early trees. Some hand blown glass ornaments, imported from Germany may also have decorated these early trees.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"> <a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture904.aspx"></a><br /><em>(photo) Hand-made ornament used to decorate the Christmas tree during the German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><em></em></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture903.aspx"><em></em></a><br /><em>(photo) Hand-made ornaments used to decorate the Christmas tree during the German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture902.aspx"></a> <br /><em>(photo) Hand-made ornaments used to decorate the Christmas tree during the German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture901.aspx"></a> <br /><em>(photo) Hand-made ornament used to decorate the Christmas tree during the German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture900.aspx"></a> <br /><em>(photo) Hand blown glass ornaments or Kugels, used to demonstrate German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p></span> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Another story Patti shared was about the origin of tinsel on a Christmas tree. The story goes something like this: A woman was cleaning her house in preparation for the Christmas celebration. She swept her house so well that the spiders had no place to hide. Somehow they ended up hiding in the Christmas tree and when the tree was lit, the webs shone in the candle light. Gold and silver tinsel are meant to represent the spiders web.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">The lighting of the Christmas trees was not without risk. Early trees were decorated with candles and lit for only a short period. A bucket of water would have been kept on hand since the chance of a fire was a very real and a dangerous possibility. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture899.aspx"></a><br /><em>(photos) Hand-made ornament collection used to demonstrate German Christmas at the Tavern program by Patti Kierys.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Patti displayed and discussed her vast collection of Christmas ornaments. She also discussed the origins of our modern day Santa Claus and many other interesting facets of Christmas traditions. From Christmas trees atop of buildings and construction sites to the origins and purposes of both the greeting card and calling card.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">If you missed this great and informative program, mark your calendars for next year. You can also head over to Squires Tavern to view the decorations and exhibits until the end of the year. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Thank you Patty, on behalf of the Barkhamsted Historical Society, for sharing your time and expertise to present a very informative and enjoyable program.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"> <a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture898.aspx"></a><br /><em>(photo) Gingerbread replica of Squire's Tavern (front view). Created and donated by Richard, Colleen and George English.</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture897.aspx"></a><br /><em><font size="1"><font size="2">(photo) Gingerbread replica of Squire's Tavern (rear view). Created and donated by Richard, Colleen and George English.</font></font></em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">The Christmas Tree was donated by Homegrown Farms, Route 44 in Barkhamsted. The wreath was donated by Aerie Mountain, Route 44 in Barkhamsted. Gingerbread houses created and donated by Richard, Colleen and George English, Barkhamsted.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Sources:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">1. Wikipedia - "<a class="" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuletide" target="_blank">Yule</a>".</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">2. Christmas Tree Farm Network - "<a class="" href="http://www.christmas-tree.com/where.html" target="_blank">Christmas Tree Tradition has Ancient Origins</a>".</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">3. History.com - "<a class="" href="http://www.history.com/minisite.do?content_type=Minisite_Generic&content_type_id=1284&display_order=4&mini_id=1290" target="_blank">Christmas, How It All Got Started</a>".</span></p><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">4. History.com - "<a class="" href="http://www.history.com/minisite.do?content_type=Minisite_Generic&content_type_id=1284&display_order=4&mini_id=1290" target="_blank">Christmas, How It All Got Started</a>".</span></p></span></font></div> </article> <article> <h1>STEAP Grant Projects Well Underway</h1> <p>Richard — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 22:41:00 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture867.aspx"></a> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Last spring the Barkhamsted Historical Society was the recipient of a $150,000, Small Town Economic Assistance Program, or STEAP Grant. The grant is specifically geared toward capital improvements and expansion. Several projects had been earmarked for these funds and have either been completed or are well underway. As was mentioned in the Sept 2008 Quarterly, the floors in the front kitchen have been re-finished and now look very nice. This fall volunteers Dave Ravsio and Michael Ream did a wonderful job fabricating an old fashion sliding barn door to conceal the archival storage unit. Additionally, Dave and Michael worked to prepare the Tavern for the new landing stoop off of the rear door, which will connect to a ramp and allow wheelchair access.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"> <a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture868.aspx" target="_blank"></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">The stoop and ramp are part of a much larger project consisting of grading the yard and construction of a brick walkway. Former First Selectmen and BHS volunteer Michael Fox has headed up the landscape and walkway project. Michael has done a great job in planning and coordinating a new brick walkway which encompasses three sides of Squires Tavern. Mike and other volunteers have spent many hours planning the layout, choosing the materials and hiring the contractors. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture871.aspx" target="_blank"></a> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">The walkway is designed to direct visitors to the front door, the main entrance, of the Tavern. While the old walkway did led to the front door, visitors were more inclined to enter through a side door. The walkway will also run parallel to the side of the building allowing easy access to the informational kiosk and ultimately connecting to the ramp at the rear of the building. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture869.aspx" target="_blank"></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">In preparation for grading of the yard, local resident Michael O'Connor was hired to grind several old stumps down. Local excavating contractor Eugene Allen was hired to do the grading and prepare the walkway paths.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture872.aspx" target="_blank"></a></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture874.aspx" target="_blank"></a> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture873.aspx" target="_blank"></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture875.aspx" target="_blank"></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture877.aspx" target="_blank"></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture879.aspx" target="_blank"></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Eugene dug a trench, following the walkway outline, then filled and compacted the base with processed stone. Local stone mason Michael Hoffnagle will be laying the brick walkway and is scheduled to begin the final phase of this project the third week of November.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/squires/picture880.aspx" target="_blank"></a> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Other major projects which are underway include the installation of a lightning protection system by Northeast Lightning Protection, LLC, who are headquartered in Bloomfield. After a lighting strike took out all of the electronic, heating, cooling and alarm systems last year the board decided to protect the building from future strikes and future potential for damage, including fire. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">BHS also hired local painting contractor Jim Parrott to scrap down and paint the Center School house, the historic one room school house which was moved from its original Barkhamsted Center location to its present location on Route 181. Jim did a nice job and the schoolhouse looks great with its fresh coat of paint.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">BHS has also hired Canton roofing contractor Greg Erisoty to replace the cedar shake roof on the schoolhouse. Greg is scheduled to begin work on the schoolhouse roof in late November.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:10pt;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;">Several other projects are under consideration for next year, including possibly the construction of a working multi-purpose blacksmith shop and pottery shed. Also being considered is an interpretive trail through the grounds of Squires Tavern</span>.</span></p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Open House at the Barkhamsted Center School</h1> <p>Paul — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 01:19:00 GMT</p> <p>On Saturday, September 20, 2008 the Barkhamsted Historical Society held an Open House at the Barkhamsted Center School. Historical Society member Mike Day was on hand to greet visitors and discuss a typical school day in the early 20th century and before. Mike had on hand a number of school text books and games used during this period. Over 30 visitors stopped in to see the building and the displays.</p> <p>The Center School was one of 12 schools located in Barkhamsted during the 19th and early 20th century. In those days the town was split into this many districts, each with a school, so that children could more easily walk to class. The Center School was moved in 1980 by the Historical Society from its original site on the west side of the Barkhamsted Reservoir. The building was with a hundred feet of the edge of the reservoir, and had been used as a maintenance building by the MDC until the Historical Society moved it. </p> <p>The schoolhouse was built in 1821 as a two story structure. In 1880, repairs were made and the building was converted into a one story structure. Most of the first floor was removed at that time. The current classroom had originally been the second floor.</p> <p><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture848.aspx" target="_blank"></a></p> <p>Photo above - Historical Society volunteer Mike Day greets visitors to the Open House on September 20, 2008 at the Barkhamsted Center School.</p> <p><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture850.aspx" target="_blank"></a></p> <p>Photo above- busy "students" at the Open House, Barkhamsted Center School.</p> <p><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture851.aspx" target="_blank"></a></p> <p>The Barkhamsted Center School- it was a beautiful day on Saturday, September 20, 2008 for the Historical Society's Open House. Over 30 visitors stopped in to take a look at the building and exhibits.</p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Local Artist Completes Trompe-l'œil Painting</h1> <p>Richard — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:24:00 GMT</p> <div><font face="Arial" size="2">During the restoration efforts of Squires Tavern the location of an old staircase leading to the second floor was discovered by volunteers scraping paint. The discovery was detailed in an <a class="" title="Stair Location Discovered" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/blogs/worklog/archive/2004/12/22/278-stair-location-discovered.aspx">earlier Work Log post</a>. After the discovery, the board decided to hire local artist Germaine Lemieux to create a Trompe-l'œil painting depicting what the staircase would have looked like. <a class="" title="Trompe-l'œil From Wikipedia" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trompe_l'oeil" target="_blank">Trompe-l'œil</a> is a French word meaning "to trick the eye", and is an </font><font face="Arial" size="2">art</font><font face="Arial" size="2"> technique involving extremely realistic imagery in order to create the </font><font face="Arial" size="2">optical illusion</font><font face="Arial" size="2"> that the depicted objects appear in three-dimensions, instead of actually being a two-dimensional painting.</font></div> <div><font size="2"></font> </div> <div><br />Local artist Germaine Lemieux poses in front of her <font size="2">Trompe-l'œil painting of the orignal stircase</font></div> <div><font size="2"></font> </div> <div><br /><font size="2">Trompe-l'œil painting of the orignial Squires Tavern staircase.</font></div> </article> <article> <h1>Locally Grown History</h1> <p>Richard — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 01:15:00 GMT</p> <p>The Barkhamsted Historical Society is proud to be participating in the first annual, "Locally Grown History - It's In Your Backyard" program. The program is designed to promote historical resources as well as agricultural assets located within Litchfield County. The project is being led by Robert Forbes, an assistant professor of history at the UCONN Torrington campus. Forbes has organized a group of educators, directors, curators, and volunteers from many local historic and cultural organizations to collaborate on the event.</p> <p>Since Litchfield County is geographically large, the project packages the area’s historical assets (historical societies, museums, historic sites, and traditional artisans) and agricultural resources (vineyards, orchards, farms, farmers markets, and farm stands) into a “trail” so that visitors can easily move from one to another as a day or weekend destination.</p> <p>The idea is for participants to travel to the various venues with a "Locally Grown History Hunt Passports" and have the passports stamped after visiting the site. Visit 10 participating sites for a chance to enter a prize drawing. Visit 15 participating sites for a chance to enter the grand prize drawing. Prizes include: Bed and Breakfast getaways, Jewelry, Ski Passes, Fine Local Wines, Memberships to Historical Sites, Dinner for Two, Tickets to the Warner Theater and many more.</p> <p>Locally Grown History Maps and Passports are available at Squires Tavern or any of the other participating sites. Stop by to have your passport stamped!</p> <p>The program culminates at the UCONN Torrington campus on Sunday, October 19th, 2008 with a forum, "Locally Grown Stories: Context and Connections". A keynote address will be presented by Carl Nold, President of Historic New England and then move into concurrent forums focused on the following topics:</p> <ul> <li> <div>From Hills to Mills: The Power of Geography in Connecticut History</div></li> <li> <div>Religion's Role and Impact on Connecticut History</div></li> <li> <div>Immigration in Connecticut</div></li> <li> <div>Stories Told Through Letters</div></li></ul> <p>Between sessions forum attendees will be able to view table top displays from participating sites. The forum will conclude with a Round-table discussion, "Teaching with Local Treasures: The World In Your Backyard", moderated by Walt Woodward, Connecticut State Historian.</p> <p>For more information please see the <a class="" title="Locally Grown History Website" href="http://locallygrownhistory.uconn.edu/index.html" target="_blank">Locally Grown History Website</a>. Be sure to check the <a class="" title="Locally Grown History Events Page" href="http://locallygrownhistory.uconn.edu/events.html" target="_blank">events page</a> for specially scheduled venue events and links.</p> <p><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/blogs/current/lghsmall.jpg"></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Archaeology Volunteers Sought</h1> <p>Richard — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 03:35:00 GMT</p> <font size="4"> <p align="left"><font size="3">The Barkhamsted Historical Society in cooperation with the Colebrook Historical Society is actively seeking volunteers who are interested in working on an archaeological dig. The Revolutionary War era Richard Smith forge is of significant historical value because of its role during the Revolutionary War. The forge, built in 1771, was one of the first in the Colonies to produce steel. Steel was used to produce drill bits capable of drilling the barrels of canons used during the war. Production of steel was a British secret which Richard Smith carried with him from England. Iron was also produced at the forge. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3">The dig is being led under the direction of archaeologist Marc Banks and is being cooperatively financed by Barkhamsted Historical Society, The <a class="" title="Colebrook Historical Society" href="http://www.colebrookhistoricalsociety.org/" target="_blank">Colebrook Historical Society</a>, The <a class="" title="Colebrook Land Conservancy" href="http://colebrooklandconservancy.org/about.htm" target="_blank">Colebrook Land <font size="3">Conservancy</font></a>, and The <a class="" title="Farmington River Coordinating Committee" href="http://www.farmingtonriver.org/" target="_blank">Farmington River Coordinating Committee</a>. The site is located just over the Barkhamsted line in Colebrook. </font><font size="3">The project is dedicated to the memory of Walt Landgraf. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3">If you are interested in participating please contact <a href="mailto:rich@barkhamstedhistory.org">rich@barkhamstedhistory.org</a> for dates and times. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3">Attached at the bottom of this post, as a PDF file, is the <a class="" title="2007 Archaelogical Investigation Interim Report" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/blogs/current/attachment/813.ashx" target="_blank">2007 Archaeological Investigation Interim Report</a> for more information.</font></p> <p align="left"></font><font size="3">Below are some photos of the artifacts recovered from the dig.</font></p><font size="3"><br /><font size="3">The Still River provided the power to turn wheels used to operate the hammers and bellows of the forge. A race on the other side of the rock outcrop in the right of the picture diverted water to wheels on the west side of the forge. </font></font><font size="3"><font size="3"> <p><br /><font size="3">Lamp glass (upper left) and various bottle glass shards </font></p> <p><font size="3"><br />Iron Fragments</font></p> <p><font size="3"><br />Kaolin Pipe Fragments</font></p> <p><font size="3"><br />Shoe buckle fragment</font></p> <p><font size="3"> <br />Cuff link</font></p> <p><font size="3"><br />Wrought nails</font></p> <p><font size="3"><br /><br /><br />Fleur-de-lis cuff links and base</font></font></font></p><font size="3"></font> <p align="left"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="4"><br /><br /><br /><font size="3">This is not the actual coin found as it is still being cleaned. Marc Banks removed some of the dirt from the coin and while it is very corroded, it appears to be a variety minted between 1746-1754 (GORG<span style="TEXT-DECORATION:underline;">V</span>IS on obv.). This photo is of a British half penny of that vintage.</font></font><font face="Arial,Arial" size="4"></p></font> </article> <article> <h1>Historical Society Program on CCC and Visit to Camp White</h1> <p>Paul — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 11:37:00 GMT</p> <p>On July 19, 2008 the Barkhamsted Historical Society hosted a program on the Civilian Conservation Corp in Connecticut, and toured a CCC camp that was located in Barkhmasted. Marty Podskoch was the featured speaker. Marty is currently gathering information on the CCC program in Connecticut and gave a slide show and talk at the Barkhamsted Senior Center. About 30 people attended the program, which covered CCC life and the many CCC camps located in Connecticut. After Marty's program, we toured Camp White, located about a mile up the road from the Senior Center, in American Legion State Forest. There are still remnants of the buildings and parade grounds that can be seen at Camp White, which was opened in late 1933 and closed in early 1942. </p> <p><a href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/photos/activities/picture793.aspx" target="_blank"></a></p> <p>Photo above- Marty Podskoch discusses the Civilian Conservation Corp in Connecticut on July 19, 2008 at the Barkhamsted Senior Center. Marty is currently researching the topic and plans to publish a book on the CCC. After the program the group toured Camp White, a CCC camp that was located in Barkhamsted and was active from 1933 to 1942.</p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>323) July 23, 2008 - Volunteers start work on back door area</h1> <p>Paul — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:16:00 GMT</p> <p>On Wednesday, July 23, 2008, Historical Society volunteers start work on the back door area of the Squire's Tavern. This work is related to the ramp that will be installed in August 2008. The ramp will allow wheel chair access to the building. Before the ramp can be installed, the area under the back door must be prepared. Volunteers removed wooden steps that were located here and start removing trim and clapboards so that the area can be waterproofed. </p> </article> <article> <h1>Connecticut Open House Day - Saturday June 14, 2008</h1> <p>Paul — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 22:22:00 GMT</p> <p><font color="#008080" size="4">Connecticut Open House Day - Saturday June 14, 2008 <br /></font>Connecticut Open House Day is a special state-wide event sponsored by the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism. On Saturday, June 14, 2008 a variety of cultural organizations and tourism attractions throughout the state will be open to visitors, inviting them to discover Connecticut's fascinating world of art, history and film. The Barkhamsted Historical Society will participate with special hours on June 14. The Squire's Tavern will be open from 12:00 noon until 4:00 p.m. and will have a special exhibit of photos by Paul Kramarchyk. The photos are of historic houses from Pleasant Valley up to Riverton (mostly on West River Road). Our 1846 "friendship" quilt will also be on display. In addition we will have docents available to provide guided tours of the Squire's Tavern. Refreshments will also be available and there is no admission charge. Please include us on your visits to the variety of participating museums and organizations on Connecticut Open House Day! </p> </article> <article> <h1>2008 program series completed.</h1> <p>Paul — Thu, 01 May 2008 22:20:00 GMT</p> <p><font color="#008080" size="4">2008 program series ended May 9, 2008. Hope you didn't miss them! <br /></font>The Historical Society wrapped up our annual program series for 2008. Held on the second Friday of the month from February to May, the programs were well attended and we hope you were able to make it to at least some of them. The program were all at the Senior Center in Pleasant Valley, about a mile up West River Road from the bridge. This year topics included: </p> <div><b>Friday, February 8, 2008</b><u><br />Colebrook Forge Archaeology.</u> Dr. Marc Banks discussed the Colebrook Forge and the archaeology work done on the site located near Riverton. The forge was built in 1771 and operated for about 40 years. Pig iron was brought to the forge from an iron furnace in Salisbury. The iron was then further refined at the Colebrook forge and made into a variety of products including ship anchors. The site also was one of the first to produce steel in the colonies.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>Friday, March 14, 2008 <br /></b><u>The Forgotten Town</u>. Erik Landgraf presented the story of the community in Barkhamsted Hollow where farms, businesses and a small village were located before the Saville Dam was built, creating the Barkhamsted Reservoir. Those crossing the Dam can look to the north and wonderful scenery including water, trees and mountains. Erik will show us what was there before the water.<br /> </div> <div><b>Friday, April 11, 2008<br /></b><u>People of Wattunkashausep</u>. Cynthia Griggs covered the culture of Native Americans living in the area of the Farmington River Valley. The Farmington River has been a wonderful resource over the years, drawing recreational users and providing water power for early mills. Cynthia discussed the residents of the river valley living there in an earlier time. <p><b><br />Friday, May 9, 2008<br /></b><u>Colonial Herb Gardening</u>. Mike Day used potted herb plants in a discussion of how they were used historically for a variety of purposes. Those attending had a chance to smell or taste the herbs and learn the many uses of these plants in the daily lives of colonial Americans. </p></div> </article> <article> <h1>Tag Sale - May 17, 2008</h1> <p>Paul — Thu, 01 May 2008 22:02:00 GMT</p> <p><a class="" title="Tag Sale 2007" name="Tag Sale 2007"></a><font color="#008080" size="4">Tag Sale - May 17, 2008</font><br />The Barkhamsted Historical Society held our annual tag sale on Saturday, May 17, 2008 on Route 44 at the Town highway garage near the entrance to the regional <span style="mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;">recycling center. The event started at 8:00 a.m. This is our main fundraiser and we hope were able to stop by to check out the furniture, tools, collectibles, books and other items that were for sale. Funds raised from the tag sale will help us do our work preserving Barkhamsted history and culture for your enlightenment and for future generations to enjoy. </span></p> <p><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;">Thanks to all those who donated items and/or worked at the tag sale.</p></span> </article> <article> <h1>Christmas At the Tavern</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 23:17:00 GMT</p> <p><font color="#008080" size="4">Christmas At the Tavern <br /></font>On Sunday, December 2, 2007 the Historical Society held a special open house and kickoff of our old time Christmas decorations displays at the Squire's Tavern. The day included refreshments and a short talk on some of the Christmas decoration practices used by the families that occupied the Tavern over the years. The decorations were on view during our open hours up to December 23. The Squire's Tavern is located at 100 East River Road, about one mile north of the bridge in Pleasant Valley.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Squire's Tavern open to the public each Wednesday 9 to noon and Sunday 1 to 3 p.m</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 22:16:00 GMT</p> <p><font color="#008080" size="4">Squire's Tavern open to the public each Wednesday 9 to noon and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. <br /></font>The Squires Tavern is open to the public on Sundays 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This is in addition to our current hours on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. The Barkhamsted Historical Society is restoring the historic building at Peoples Forest called Squire's Tavern. The work is well along and we invite you to stop by to check it out. Although we are still working on the project there is still a lot to see. Guides can show you around the building and also give you some background on Barkhamsted history in general. Stop by and take a look!<br /></p> </article> <article> <h1>Reservoir Tour Held September 15, 2007</h1> <p>Paul — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 22:10:00 GMT</p> <p><font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif"><font color="#008080" size="4">Reservoir Tour Held September 15, 2007 <br /></font><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;FONT-FAMILY:Times New Roman;"><font size="2">For several years the Historical Society has done a tour of Barkhamsted Center, the Hollow and Saville Dam. This has been so popular that we again offered it on September 15, 2007. It was always a favorite event of Walt Landgraf's and although we could not match Walt's knowledge and wonderful presentations, our participants enjoyed the tour and the great scenery of the reservoir area.</font></span></font></p> </article> <article> <h1>Barkhamsted Anniversary Celebration and Historical Society Annual Meeting - Sept. 10</h1> <p>Paul — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:13:00 GMT</p> <p><font color="#008080" size="4">Barkhamsted Anniversary Celebration and Historical Society Annual Meeting - Sept. 10 <br /></font>Barkhamsted's 228<sup>th</sup> anniversary was celebrated on Monday, September 10, 2007 at the Squire's Tavern. The festivities included the traditional cake and other refreshments. We also had some special events honoring the contributions of Walt Landgraf. A short business meeting business meeting was held during which we will elected officers and gave a summary of what the Historical Society has accomplished over the past year and what our plans are for the future.<br /></p> </article> <article> <h1>Art at the Tavern - from Aug 12 to Sept 12, 2007</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 22:12:00 GMT</p> <p><font color="#008080" size="4">Art at the Tavern - from Aug 12 to Sept 12, 2007 <br /></font>The Barkhamsted Historical Society hosted "Art at the Tavern", an exhibition featuring paintings, photographs, jewelry, pottery and abstract ceramic wall hangings. A reception at the Squire's Tavern was held on Sunday, August 12, 2007 as the kickoff event. Hope you were able to come in and view this wonderful variety of art</p> </article> <article> <h1>Barkhamsted Recreation Summer Camp Week</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:20:00 GMT</p> <h3>Town Diary - July 2007</h3> <p><b>Barkhamsted Recreation Summer Camp Week <br /><br /></b>This is what summer is all about. For a week in July over one hundred Barkhamsted kids come together for games, crafts, music, dancing and swimming. Welcome to Summer Camp Week hosted by the Barkhamsted Recreation Commission. </p> <p>It all starts on Monday and goes five days. Kids get dropped off at the pavilion at People's Forest for a morning of fun, then shortly before noon they are transported by bus to Goose Green beach on Lake McDonough for lunch and water-oriented activities. At 3:00 p.m. parents drive in the long, winding access road to Goose Green Beach and pick up tired but happy children.</p> <p>The summer camp has a fairly long history. It started in the mid 1980s as an event covering several days. In the early years the camp focused on one topic: Molly Chagum and the legend of the Barkhamsted Lighthouse. In the mid 1990s it expanded to a full week and traded Molly in for more traditional summer camp activities. From the vantage point of the children it is a fun week that many have attended year after year. It is open to pre-kindergarten children (no younger than age 4) on up to grade six. The pre-kindergarten kids go for just half a day from 9:00 a.m. to noon while everyone else attends both the morning and afternoon sessions. What the kids don't see (or care about) is the planning that goes into camp week. The Recreation Director, currently Debbie Brydon, has in place a well oiled machine: time-tested planning and a trained support crew under her direction to carry out those plans. The result weaves together a loose, friendly fun-filled atmosphere with an organized structure that delivers a steady variety of activities, keeping short attention spans firing on all cylinders. </p> <p>Each day starts out with the campers forming a welcome circle and each person is greeted. Debbie fills everyone in on the planned activities for the day. Then the campers split into groups by age: pre-kindergarten and kindergarten kids in one, first and second graders in another, third and fourth in another and finally the fifth and sixth graders. In 2007 there are so many third graders that for some activities their group splits into two. The camp is limited to a maximum of 125 kids in order to keep things manageable. This limit has been reached in several years, resulting in some kids being turned away. In 2007 the limit was not reached. A total of 110 kids were signed up and a few more added at the last minute.<br /> </p> <p> <table class="style1" id="table1" class="style1"> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""> <font size="2">Camp day starts out with the Welcome Circle. Each camper is greeted and Rec Director Debbie Brydon (center of photo, in blue) outlines the days activities.</font></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""> <font size="2">Debbie gets the whistle ready to signal the groups of campers to rotate to the next activity. Debbie wears mouse ears because today's theme is <i>favorite animal</i> day.</font> </td></tr></table></p> <p>Director Debbie Brydon and a small team of adults (including a nurse) are assisted by numerous counselors. The counselors are older children or young adults, most of whom are camp veterans. Children just a year or two beyond the sixth grade are "Counselors in Training" (CIT). The next age level are "Junior Counselors". Tenth graders and older are full counselors. There is one counselor for every eight or nine campers and at least one adult (or one of the oldest counselors) is present at each camp activity. One week before camp starts the adults and counselors meet to plan and organize the details. All the children who are registered are assigned to their groups and a telephone and health record is established for each child. Before camp starts, counselors telephone each child to pass along general camp information. After the first day of camp, the adults and counselors meet again to review how things went and iron out any issues that may have come up.</p> <p>During camp week, each day has a general theme. In 2007 the themes were:</p> <p>Monday - Favorite Animal Day<br />Tuesday - Caribbean Day<br />Wednesday - Rock and Roll Day<br />Thursday - Pirate Day<br />Friday - Dress Your Counselor Day<br /><br />Campers are encouraged to wear clothing/costumes reflecting the day's theme. For example, on Rock and Roll day some of the counselors wore uniforms reminiscent of the Beatles' Sergeant Pepper. In addition, one or more activities during the day are tied in to the theme. On Friday, "Dress Your Counselor Day" requires the Counselors to wear clothing brought in by the campers. Of course the intent is to embarrass the Counselor to the fullest extent possible. This year as in previous years, the shortest path to successful embarrassment focused on cross dressing, especially for the older male counselors. Campers chose such things as painted nails, boas and head gear topped with fruit as the favored tools for the task at hand.</p> <p>During camp week, a steady line of cars descend on the main area at People's Forest just before 9:00 a.m. Parents drop off one or more children, over one hundred in all. The kids stream into the meeting area laden with backpacks stuffed with snacks, lunch, swimsuits and all the necessities of a day at camp. Shortly after 9:00 a.m. Recreation Director Debbie Brydon gets things started with a couple of blasts from her whistle and the campers form up into the welcome circle where greetings are handed out and announcements made. Camp day is off and running. The morning is spent at People's Forest. The counselors gather their assigned campers and each group begins the first activity of the day. Several activities are going on at the same time and each group of children rotates between them. On a given day the morning activities might be include such things as: 1) games, including kickball, relay races or a hoop and ball game; 2) music and dancing; 3) tie-dying a t-shirt; 4) planning and constructing a flotation device to be used in a water race. Debbie, keeping an eye on the time, uses her whistle to signal the groups to rotate. At mid-morning the groups come together for a snack. As Debbie pours out the liquid refreshment to the campers, she addresses each by name. This turns into a game as the children hope she will not remember their correct name. <i>Maybe this time she will call me Jake instead of Jack!</i> But to the delight of the children, Debbie rarely slips up. </p> <p> <table class="style1" id="table2" class="style1"> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2"> This is <i>pirate day</i> and Camp counselor Chris Rood is dressed for the part.</font> </td></tr></table></p> <p>At about noon the groups congregate once again, this time under the People's Forest pavilion. It is time to board the two school buses for the ride to Goose Green Beach (located on Lake McDonough). The afternoon activities will be held there. The children are quiet as they sit at the pavilion picnic tables. The group that is the most quiet and well behaved will be dismissed first to board the bus -- an honor that all strive for.</p> <p>At Goose Green, the first order of business is lunch. Campers head toward the same picnic table that they staked out on the first day and eat lunches brought from home. At Goose Green the camp routine is a little more relaxed. After lunch, the activities include swimming, hiking and just hanging out. The time is less structured and the groups break up into smaller units, but still with at least one counselor. In addition to these activities, there are also three special activities at Goose Green, and each camper chooses to participate in one of them. They are the wiffle ball tournament, the sand sculpture contest and the arts and craft activity called boondoggle which is the weaving and knotting together of flat plastic strings called "gimp" into simple objects like a friendship band or more complex, artistic creations. The sand sculptures are works of art made from the beach sand and can be worked on all week if desired. The sculptures are judged and a prize awarded on Friday, the last day of camp. The wiffle ball game is actually a tournament: five games in five days. The competition is keen between the same two teams (the Cincinnati Heaters versus the Cleveland Beavers), each vying to win the tournament and the trophy, which is presented on the last day.</p> <p> <table class="style1" id="table3" class="style1"> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">The name game...Debbie pours out lemonade for two campers. While serving the lemonade, she greets each camper by name. Pretty amazing since there are over 100 campers!</font> </td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">One of the camp activities: tie dying t-shirts. Here the t-shirts are being hung up to dry. This activity is on the grounds of the Squire's Tavern at People's Forest. At the end of camp week when the t-shirts are done, each camper will have counselors and other campers sign their shirt with indelible ink pens.</font> </td></tr></table></p> <p>As three o'clock approaches, the parents start to trickle in to pick up the campers. Debbie blows her whistle and has everyone form a circle for the ritual performed at the end of each day. This is the "Humpty-Dumpty" song. The tune is the same for each verse and the words are supplied from a variety of nursery rhymes. It is rhythmic, almost like rap, and each verse ends with "ain't that funky now!". The kids really get into it. This brings to a close a typical day at Camp. </p> <p>Throughout camp week there are special events scheduled. This year one such event (on Tuesday) was the "Island Rhythm" band, a high energy, rapid fire group that belts out live music simultaneously with a variety of activities such as dancing and ball bopping. The band is excellent and they know how to get the campers revved up.</p> <p>Another event was a visit by world champion lumberjack competitor Mike Sullivan from the nearby town of Colebrook. Mike has competed nationally and internationally and has won world titles many times in his career. He still competes, but now does fewer competitions. For the campers, he demonstrates competition wood chopping. After a short demonstration of just how sharp the axe is (it cuts a piece of paper like a razor), Mike chops through a pine log, his powerful swings producing huge chips. Then for the saw cutting demonstration he brings out what looks like an ordinary chain saw. In nine seconds he saws through a 12 inch pine log. The campers are impressed and applaud the display. But wait -- that was a setup! Mike now brings out his actual competition saw...the "Super Saw". It is black and it is BIG. It has a snowmobile engine for a motor and when he fires it up, it fills the whole valley with its roar. Mike has the campers cover their ears and shout out the count down as he prepares to saw the log: three...two...one...GO! In a blink of eye the log is cut as the saw dust flies. Done in 1.5 seconds! </p> <p>Another special event is the float race. During most of the week the campers (in groups) have been working on their floats as a teamwork activity. Each group is given the same materials to construct a float, including long flotation "noodles". On the last day of camp, the various float creations are put to the test. The race involves two floats in head to head competition. They start at the beach, going out to a buoy located in deeper water, and then back to the beach. After the first round, the winners of each race take on each other. The overall winner this year was one of the groups comprised of sixth graders.</p> <p>Also on the last day of camp, two other awards are handed out: one for the sandcastle competition winner and one for the team winning the wiffleball tournament. The trophies are designs carved out of Catalpa wood by Mike Sullivan, using a chain saw. Just this year (2007) he has donated the castle trophy used for the sandcastle competition (see photos of both trophies). The wiffleball competition came down to the wire. Over the first four days of the week the teams had each won two games. The tie was broken with the fifth game on Friday and the Cleveland Beavers were the victors. The sandcastle competition was judged by the two lifeguards (both MDC employees; it just so happened that these same two lifeguards had judged the competition last year). The judges were so impressed by the quality of the sandcastles that they could not identify one single winner. The trophy was awarded to the artists of all seven entries to the delight of the campers (the trophy will be displayed at Town Hall).</p> <p>The busy Friday brings to a close another year of Camp Week. This will be the last one for Debbie Brydon as Recreation Director. After 11 years in that role she is stepping down. Over the years she has worked hard to improve the camp experience for the kids and has done it successfully. It is easy to see why over 100 campers attend, and keep coming back year after year. Debbie has done an excellent job planning, organizing and directing the activities. It is very apparent that she enjoys the week and her enthusiasm spreads to the counselors and campers, helping to make it an enjoyable experience for all. On Friday the counselors and adult staff showed their appreciation of not only Debbie's years of service, but also her spirit and good humor. They provided a gourmet lunch for Debbie and later, with the area decked out with large balloons, they presented her with a flower bouquet. After a speech with kind words, Debbie was thrown into the warm waters of Lake McDonough. </p> <table class="style1" id="table4" class="style1"> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">Boarding the bus at People's Forest for the trip to Goose Green Beach. Each year the LeGeyt Bus Company generously donates without charge two buses with drivers to meet the transportation needs of the campers, thus helping to keep the cost of camp week low (camp week costs $115 per child). <br /></font></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">Island Rhythm Band belts out some dance tunes and gets the campers (and Debbie) hopping at the pavilion at People's Forest. <br /></font></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2"> The sawdust flies as lumberjack Mike Sullivan demonstrating the Super Saw to the campers.</font><br /></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2"> Mike Sullivan compares his competition "Super Saw" to a regular chain saw. Can you tell which is which?<br /></font></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2"> Mike Sullivan's demonstration of his lumberjack skills is one of the highlights of camp week as these eager autograph seekers can attest.<br /></font></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">Goose Green Beach is where afternoons are spent during camp week. Two MDC lifeguards keep an eye on the campers in the water.</font><br /></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">Beach wiffleball. Trash talking is exchanged as campers vie for bragging rights and the tournament trophy (best of five games). A ball landing uncaught in the water is a home run. A ball hitting the trash can behind the batter is a strike.</font><br /></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""> </td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">Trophies for the sand sculpture competition (left) and the wiffleball tournament. These were made for the campers by Mike Sullivan. <br /></font></td></tr> <tr> <td class="" style="HEIGHT:465px;"></td></tr> <tr> <td class=""><font size="2">Rec Director Debbie and some of her crew, posing here with Mike Sullivan. </font> <p><font size="2">From the left (front row)- Kelsey Lamoureaux, Brendan Fritch, Chris Parrott, Kyle Fritch, Alex Lamoureaux.<br />Back row from left- Chris Rood, Josh Seibold, Dannielle Lamoureaux, lumberjack Mike Sullivan, Debbie Brydon.</font></p> <p><font size="2">From the left (front row)- Kelsey Lamoureaux, Brendan Fritch, Chris Parrott, Kyle Fritch, Alex Lamoureaux.<br />Back row from left- Chris Rood, Josh Seibold, Dannielle Lamoureaux, lumberjack Mike Sullivan, Debbie Brydon.</font></p></td></tr></table> <p>back to the <a class="" title="Town Diary" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/blogs/diary/">Town Diary</a> front page</p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>322) Central Connecticut State University students visit Squire's Tavern</h1> <p>Paul — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 13:55:00 GMT</p> <p><strong>322) Central Connecticut State University students visit Squire's Tavern - </strong>July 13, 2007<br /><b> </b> A group of 16 students from the Central Connecticut State University visit the Squire's Tavern to learn about the building and the archeological work that has been done. The Historical Society is currently preparing hundreds of pottery shards, pieces of glass and other items recovered in a series of digs at the Tavern over the last five years. The students are part of a summer history course and also visited the Stone Museum and other sites in the area.</p> </article> <article> <h1>321) July 4th Parade at Pleasant Valley and Open House at Squire's Tavern</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 13:53:00 GMT</p> <p><strong>321) July 4th Parade at Pleasant Valley and Open House at Squire's Tavern - </strong>July 4, 2007<br /><b> </b> Historical Society members marched in the Independence Day parade held at Pleasant Valley. A fun time was had by all and the Star Band sounded fantastic as always. Also a special Open House was held at Squire's Tavern. The building was open from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. We had about 30 visitors, most of which arrived after the parade ended. Visitors checked out the building and the progress the Historical Society has made, for example the new wall stenciling in the Ball Room.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Barkhamsted People - Joan Markure</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 14:55:00 GMT</p> <p> </p> <h3>Town Diary - June 2007</h3> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-TOP:12pt;"><b>Barkhamsted People - Joan Markure</b></p> <p>Long time Barkhamsted resident Joan Markure is an employee of the town and works in the Town Hall, at least she did until the end of June 2007. After June, if you have business on the second floor of the Town Hall you won't see Joan's smiling face because after 18 years working as a bookkeeper and for 10 years as an administrative assistant for the First Selectman, Joan is leaving the position and looking forward to some free time and the summer off.</p> <table class="" id="table1" style="BORDER-COLLAPSE:collapse;" align="center"> <tr> <td class=""> <p align="center"> </p></td> <td class=""></td></tr></table> <p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-TOP:12pt;"><i><font face="Times New Roman">Photos above: at left, Joan Markure will miss her job but is looking forward to some free time and a summer off after18 years as a employee of the Town of Barkhamsted. At right, Joan discusses an issue with First Selectman Mike Fox at her office in the Town Hall. </font></i></p> <p>Joan first worked at the Town Hall as a volunteer. Back in June 1988 the Town Hall building was moved to its current location. Prior to the move, Joan was a volunteer helping to pack up files and assisting with the move to temporary quarters in the Barkhamsted Elementary School. Town business was conducted in the school while the building was moved and renovated. Soon after, First Selectwomen Camy Lattizori hired Joan as a bookkeeper assisting the town treasurer. Joan has worked in this position for 18 years, primarily in the area of recording town expenditures. Ten years ago she also took on the duties of administrative assistant to Camy, a position which Joan continues in now (to current First Selectman Mike Fox). In addition, over the years Joan has filled in as needed for short term periods at other areas of the Town Hall including the assessor's office and the zoning office.</p> <p>Joan has seen changes during her tenure. When she started as bookkeeper the town held much more debt, having borrowed for the Town Hall renovation and also for a major expansion and renovation at the Elementary School. Over the years this debt has been substantially reduced to a very low level, currently putting the town in a much more stable position financially. Another area of change is the workload from a variety of ongoing grant projects. In past years the town has retained an outside administrator to handle some grant operations (for example, construction at the Senior Center). In an effort to save funds, much of the current grant administration work is done in the First Selectman's office. Joan has helped to administer the Small Town Economic Assistant Program grant to the Barkhamsted Historical Society, the Riverton Streetscape grant and the municipal fade improvement grants.</p> <p>back to the <a class="" title="Journals" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.org/blogs/">Town Diary</a> front page </p> </article> <article> <h1>320) Colebrook Historical Society visits the Squire's Tavern</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 13:50:00 GMT</p> <p><strong>320) Colebrook Historical Society visits the Squire's Tavern - </strong>June 20, 2007<br /><b> </b> A group from the Colebrook Historical Society visits the Squire's Tavern. Walt Landgraf gives a tour of the Tavern and provides information on the restoration of the Tavern. Walt provides background on consultants used by the Barkhamsted Historical Society during our restoration work including advisors specializing in areas such as paint analysis, iron hardware, stenciling and old house construction. The Colebrook Historical Society is currently involved with a restoration project on their main building, part of which was the former Colebrook town hall. </p> <p></p> <p><br /><em>Photos above - Walt Landgraf gives a tour of the Squire's Tavern to a group from the Colebrook Historical Society.</em></p> </article> <article> <h1>319) Volunteers at Squire's Tavern</h1> <p>Paul — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 13:48:00 GMT</p> <p><strong>319) Volunteers at Squire's Tavern - </strong>June 13, 2007<br /><b> </b> A volunteer work crew does a variety of small jobs at the Squire's Tavern including moving unsold tag sale items and digging a post hole for a sign at the Tavern parking lot.</p> <p><br /><em>Photo above - volunteers dig a post hole at the parking lot of the Squire's Tavern. A parking sign will be eventually installed here.</em></p> </article> <article> <h1>Barkhamsted resident Deidamia Shepard died in 1903 but her voice lives on</h1> <p>Paul — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 22:07:00 GMT</p> <p><font color="#008080" size="4">Barkhamsted resident Deidamia Shepard died in 1903 but her voice lives on. <br /></font>Deidamia Shepard lived a simple country life on a small farm on Center Hill in Barkhamsted. She died in 1901 but her voice lives on in the form of her diary in which she recorded the routine events of everyday life, her thoughts and concerns. The diary found its way by chance into the hands of Dianne Thurston of Manchester. Dianne was poking around items in a tag sale and was intrigued by the 103 page diary, which she purchased for $2. The diary was in poor condition, and it was not readily apparent just who made the entries or where they lived. The story of Deidamia is intriguing because of the many fascinating threads involved: the detective story of how Dianne found the single clue that uncovered where Deidamia lived and who she was; the glimpse into the life of a country women enjoying the small pleasures and facing the hardships on a Barkhamsted farm; the end of life concerns as she grows old. <br /><br />Dianne has presented facets of the story in our Quarterly newsletter and at a May 11 program. Recently she was interviewed for a <a class="" href="http://barkhamstedhistory.re-invent.net/content/Thuston.aspx">feature article</a> in the June 10, 2007 Waterbury Republican newspaper (a story which was picked up by AP). The Historical Society is very pleased that Dianne has brought to light Deidamia's story. Dianne has done extensive research on the Deidamia Shepard and is considering recording the story, possibly in book form. <br /><br /> <br />Photo above- Dianne Thurston at the Squire's Tavern with the Deidamia Shepard diary.<br /><br /> <br />Photo above- Dianne Thurston inspects the house foundation where Deidamia Shepard lived (located on MDC land on Center Hill, Barkhamsted). <font color="#008080" size="4"><br /></font></p> </article> <article> <h1>318) Historical Society Tag Sale</h1> <p>Paul — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 13:45:00 GMT</p> <p><strong>318) Historical Society Tag Sale - </strong>June 2, 2007<br /><b> </b> The Historical Society tag sale was held on June 2 at the Town Garage on Route 44. What a great location! We set up our tables, put out the items and with just one small sign at the road side, the curious and the bargain seekers are drawn in. This modest tag sale is now our main fundraising event because the large flea market sales we held in the past grew too large for our small organization to handle. The tag sale on June 2 was very successful. We had been collecting items for months. Thanks to all who donated items, brought plants and food to sell and helped set things up.</p> <p><br /><em>Photo above - the Historical Society tag sale fundraising event...thankfully the afternoon showers held off!</em></p> </article> <article> <h1>317) Archeology students visit Squire's Tavern</h1> <p>Paul — Thu, 31 May 2007 13:42:00 GMT</p> <p><strong>317) Archeology students visit Squire's Tavern - </strong>May 31, 2007<br /><b> </b> Dr. Ken Feder, archeologist at Central Connecticut State University, visited the Squire's Tavern with a group of students. Walt Landgraf gave the class a tour of the Tavern building and showed them pottery and glass shards recovered from a dig on the grounds of the Tavern. The group then visited nearby sites in Barkhamsted that are potential areas for future summer field work. One site is the Oakley foundation. The Oakleys were the daughter and son-in-law of Daniel Bennett who is thought to have been the builder of the Squire's Tavern. The other site visited was the Freeman Jacklin foundation. Jacklin's son married Hannah Chaugham, daughter of James and Molly. </p> </article> </main></body></html>