Historical Society Exhibits Tools Of The Trade

The Newtown Historical Society has installed the second of its tercentennial exhibitions at the Booth Library, entitled “Tools of the Trade.”

Using the word “trade” broadly, the exhibition offers a number of occupational tools as well as utensils that were used in nonoccupational pursuits. From cooking utensils to a bullet mold, carpentry tools to a ceramic mold, the display illustrates those useful objects that make the lifestyle possible in any given era. Some are homemade affairs, others the product of manufacturing, but all will tickle the fancy.

Ranging in date from the 18th Century through the early 20th Century, the arrangement in a few cases cleverly juxtaposes 18th and 19th Century tools with the same purpose, giving both a sense of history and the evolving development of the tool itself. The exhibition will be on view on the second floor during regular library hours through the end of July.

As a unique interactive component, one display case contains 14 objects that are not identified. Each one is numbered, and a corresponding numbered sheet allows the viewer to offer his or her suggestions as to the identity of the object, its purpose, and a rough date. The contest will close and the answers will be posted with the tools on July 25. Successful participants will receive a Reward of Merit designed after the manner of a 19th Century school award.

In a separate case on the first floor, the Second Connecticut Governor’s Horse Guard has installed an exhibit showing the nearly two-century history of the unit and some the weapons, equipment, and memorabilia the guard has accumulated over the long history of the unit. Still a component of Connecticut’s National Guard, the troop remains one of the oldest continuously serving cavalry units in the nation. The exhibit will serve to introduce the guard to the community, and handouts detailing its history are available.