Historical Society Open House, Broom Making Demo, May 16

Newtown Historical Society will host an open house at its headquarters, The Matthew Curtiss House, on Sunday May 16, from noon to 4 pm.

The house/museum, a fine example of Connecticut saltbox architecture, was constructed circa 1750 and purchased by Matthew Curtiss, Jr, in 1781. In 1970 the historical society purchased and restored the house to its original condition.

The public is invited to visit and tour the building at 44 Main Street. Admission is free, but donations are welcome and appreciated.

Junior and senior docents will be available to answer questions about the house and its history and will provide guided tours by request.

During the open house, Bob Aborn of Ellington will be giving a demonstration on broom making. Combining his interest in farming, history, and woodcraft, Mr Aborn researches and produces brooms and brushes that would have been used in pre-1800 settlements.

The historical society is a nonprofit, all volunteer organization. During the year it presents open houses with living history demonstrations, a lecture series, a summer history camp for kids, and many special events. All funding comes from private donations, membership dues, bequests and fundraisers such as the antique show, house and garden tour and publication sales.

 New members are always welcome and volunteers are needed to help organize and run events.

To join or for more information, visit NewtownHistory.org or call 203-426-5937.