Newtown Historical Society has two fundraising events coming up in as many months. Readers are invited to help either or both, through donations and/or purchases. Ahead of that, the society will also host its next monthly program.

On Sunday, May 18, the historical society, in partnership with C.H. Booth Library, invites the community to a compelling lecture on the Battle of Gettysburg to be presented by Sal Camillieri, a local resident and dedicated Civil War historian.

The lecture will take place beginning at 2 pm in the meeting room of the library, 25 Main Street. This program is free and open to the public.

Those planning to attend should note the historical society’s 2025 annual meeting will take place immediately prior to the lecture.

In an engaging talk, Camillieri will discuss what happened during the Battle of Gettysburg and why it was a turning point in the Civil War. He will examine key moments in the battle, highlight important military decisions, and reflect on how the events of July 1863 shaped the course of American history.

A lifelong Civil War buff, Sal Camillieri brings a deep passion and knowledge to his lecture work. His unique perspective as both a scholar and a Newtown resident makes this event especially meaningful to the community. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session following the talk.

“As always, the Historical Society gladly welcomes you to this free event,” says program director Gordon Williams, “but donations are always welcome.”

Refreshments will be served.

For more information visit newtownhistory.org.

Clothing Collection, Tag Sale Planned

Clothing, accessories, and other soft goods such as comforters, sheets, blankets, curtains and tablecloths will be accepted at The Matthew Curtiss House, 44 Main Street, on Monday, May 12, 3:30-5:30 pm; and Sunday, June 1, 10:30 am-12:30 pm. This is for one fundraising effort the society is undertaking.

Organizers ask for donations to be gently used items only, packed into large trash bags. They also ask for items donors would consider buying.

Contact Patti Clark at willomoor@att.net for further information.

The historical society’s annual tag sale, presented by members, will then be Saturday and Sunday, June 28-29, 10 am-2:30 pm both dates, at The Matthew Curtiss House, 44 Main Street. This is the first time the sale will also run on Sunday.

The event will include furniture, small household items, appliances, tools, books, home décor, toys and other items donated by members and the community.

Tag sale donations will be accepted at the Curtiss House Friday, June 27, between 1 and 4 pm. No clothing or soft goods (those should go to the earlier soft goods collections noted above). Again, organizers request donors only offer items they would consider buying.

Contact Patti Clark for details about this, or to arrange for larger item drop-offs.

A note within the April 25, 2025 Top of the Mountain column confused the dates of the soft goods collections and the tag sale dates. Those errors have been corrected online.