Events Archive
Branford Flips for Lafayette
(Farewell Tour 1824)
August 22nd, 2024 at 5:00pm
at the The Harrison House
Join us as we celebrate the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s visit to Branford during his farwell tour of the United States.
2024 Annual Meeting & Dinner
Wednesday, May 1st at 5:30pm at WoodWinds in Branford
Presenting a talk by Hope McGrath
“Yale, Connecticut, and Slavery:
Shining Light in the Archives”
A Conversation about Black History
January 10th, 2024 at 6:00pm
at the Blackstone Memorial Library
March in Branford’s Christmas Parade
Young’s Pond History Walk
POSTPONED TO
SUNDAY, OCT. 22ND
October 21st, 2023 at 2:00pm
(Raindate: Sunday, October 22nd)
at 60 Blackstone Avenue
Join us along with the Shoreline Greenway Trail for a Saturday history walk at Young’s Pond.
Kid’s History Hunt
September 16th, 2023 at 10:00am
at the Branford Green
Kids and parents, join us for an exciting hunt to uncover sites of historical signifigance in Branford’s town center.
2023 Annual Meeting & Dinner
Thursday, May 18th at 5:30pm
at the Pine Orchard Club
Presenting a talk by Robert Barnett
“Stone Buildings and Building Stones: Stony Creek Granite and Portland Brownstone“
(based on his new book, “Deconstructing Stone Buildings: A Journey Through New England”)
Earth Day 2023: Come Visit Our Table on
the Branford Green
The Quinnipiac: The First People of the Shoreline
Wednesday, January 18th, 2023
6:00pm-8:00pm at the
Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us as local historian and author Jim Powers returns to share the story of the
Quinnipiac People.
The Quinnipiac were the descendants of Indigenous people who first arrived in our region following the end of the Ice Age. By the start of the 17th century, they lived along the Shoreline from West Haven to Clinton and north to Cheshire and Meriden. Totoket (Branford) was one of their villages. How did the arrival of Europeans, first the Dutch then the English, impact the Quinnipiac, and what factors led to their eventual dispersal? Where are the Quinnipiac today? This talk will tell their story.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
The Discovery of the Dutch Fort of Indian Neck
Wednesday, October 26th, 2022
6:30pm at the Blackstone Memorial Library
In Branford, local legends have always claimed that the Dutch were present well before English colonists arrived in 1638. It’s a story that has been passed down from generation to generation for 350 years but dismissed as simply a local myth by historians. Where is the proof they have always asked? Where are the Dutch and English records that wrote about it? Where is the physical evidence that could prove they were really here?
In 1998 and 1999, when the remnants of a Dutch Fort were unearthed on Indian Neck, everything changed. Proof was found and the history of Branford and Connecticut changed forever.
Please join us as local historian and author, Jim Powers, tells the story of how the location of a Dutch trading post and fort was discovered right here in Branford.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
Strawberry Shortcake at the Branford Festival
After two years off, it’s back!
Fresh sweet strawberries & real whipped cream!
June 19, 2022 ~ Saturday only
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
(or until berries run out!)
Near the Souvenir Tent
Next to the Trinity Church
Bicycle Craze to Auto Age: CT Leads the Way
Wednesday, February 9th, 2022
6:30pm IN PERSON at the
Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us as local author and BHS member Ted Braun answers the following questions:
Why was it said that before there was a Detroit, there first had to be a Hartford?
How did bicycle improvements help usher in the Auto Age?
What international auto event in Branford was drawing William K. Vanderbilt II and his fellow elites from their Newport mansions?
We hope you’ll join us for what’s sure to be an informative and engaging talk.
The Witness Stones Project
Wednesday, November 10th, 2021
6:30pm IN PERSON at the
Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us for a special presentation by Dennis Culliton, Executive Director of the Witness Stones Project.
Started in 2017, the Witness Stones Project aims to restore the history and honor of the humanity and contributions of the enslaved individuals who helped build our communities. This is done, among other things, through a curriculum used in local schools, speaking engagements, and the setting up of memorial plaques to honor individuals from our past.
Note: Registration is required to receive a link to attend this IN-PERSON event.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
Gargoyles in New Haven
Wednesday, July 14th, 2021
7:00pm online through the
Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us as Mathew Duman highlights a selection of gargoyles & grotesques found throughout the buildings of Yale University’s New Haven campus. Using original photographs from his book, “An Education in the Grotesque”, he explores the artistic, historic, architectural, and even humorous significance of these decorative sculptures, and their role in communicating the identity of Yale University as a place of learning & enlightenment.
Note: Registration is required to receive a link to attend this online event.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
Matthew Duman’s Info.
Email: mathew.duman@yahoo.com
Book: “An Education in the Grotesque”
available at http://www.yalegargoyles.com
and on Amazon
2020 (Virtual) Annual Meeting
Wednesday, December 2nd at 7:00pm
via Zoom (info. in email invitation)
Presenting a talk by State Historian,
Walt Woodward
“Creating Connecticut:
Critical Moments That Shaped a Great State”
Indian Neck Postcards
Wednesday, November 11th, 2020
7:00pm online through the
Blackstone Memorial Library
Greetings from Indian Neck!
Wish you were here!
Join us as our Town Historian, Jane Bouley, shares images from her collection of Indian Neck postcards while giving a visual and historical tour of the beaches, stores, and summer hotels from Sybil Creek to Limewood Avenue, and along Linden Avenue to Summer Island and Sunset Beach.
The heyday of the travel postcard was 1905, until World War I when tourists came to Indian Neck to spend a few days, or the whole summer, at one of Indian Neck’s summer hotels or at a shoreline cottage for rent. They came to keep cool, swim and boat, go fishing and clamming, and just have fun. There was something here for everyone, from an inexpensive cottage to the 200 room Montowese House called the “Queen of the Sound”, the largest summer hotel between Newport and New York City.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
Branford Schools:
From ABC to STEM
Wednesday, March 11th, 2020
7:00pm at the Willoughby Wallace Library
Join us as Robert Barnett, Historical Society member, and author of “Eight Schools: Campus and Culture”, speaks on his newest booklet “Branford Schools: From ABC to STEM”. The book will be on sale that night.
Restoring Historic Homes
Thursday, February 27th, 2020
7:00pm at the The Community House
Join us for an informative presentation by Erin Fink on the State of CT Historic Homes Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program
2019 Columbus Day Parade
On October 13, 2019, Branford hosted the annual Greater New Haven Columbus Day Parade, during Branford’s 375th birthday year. Volunteers and members of the Historical Society marched in the parade with our banner.
Remembering Branford’s Doughboys
Wednesday, October 2, 2019
7:00 pm at Branford High School Auditorium
As the First World War ended, American communities hurried to memorialize the great efforts of their sons and daughters. Branford Historical Society presents Richard Franklin Donohue, Town Historian of Cromwell, who visited and studied monuments throughout the state of Connecticut. He will share stories of the design, placement, and the people memorialized on the two monuments in Branford.
2019 Annual Meeting & Dinner
Thursday, May 16th at 5:30pm at the Owenego Inn in Branford
Presenting a talk by Jane Bouley
“The Streets of Branford”
Pine Orchard Looks Back
Thursday, April 25, 2019 at 7:00 pm
Pine Orchard Country Club,
294 Pine Orchard Rd, Branford, CT
The Branford Historical Society presents an informal illustrated talk on the historic summer colony of Pine Orchard, while also exploring Indian Neck and Montowese Avenues, a distinctive area with roots in Branford’s maritime and industrial past. Rachel Carley, an architectural historian, who recently completed a study of historic buildings and other notable Branford resources will showcase some of her discoveries.
This project was supported by the State Historic Preservation Office with funds from the Community Investment Act of Connecticut.
Branford Streets
Discussion at Lenny’s
Join us for Lunch at Lenny' on Saturday, Nov. 10th at 11:30 am
Jane Bouley, Branford Town Historian will discuss her new book “The Origin and Naming of Branford’s Streets”
With extensive research using maps, town meeting records, city directories, and land records, Jane examines the origin and history of Branford roads and the relevance of the street names.
The scope of Branford’s history as an 18th century farming community, during the industrial revolution bringing an influx of European immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, and finally as a suburban community after World War II can be viewed through the development of its streets. The book includes an alphabetical listing of Branford streets, resources, an appendix, and more than 100 vintage photographs.
$25 per person
(includes three-course luncheon)
Lenny’s will donate $5 to the Branford Historical Society for each paid attendee
Reservations Required
Contact Jeff Horton at Lenny’s 203.488.1500
The History of New Haven Pizza
Wednesday, October 17th
at Tisko School
Branford Historical Society presents author, historian and pizza guru Colin M. Caplan who will speak about the history of pizza in New Haven and how it became our longest running industry.
Confederate Agent Found Hiding in Branford
Wednesday, August 15 from 6 – 8 pm at Blackstone Memorial Library
Author Joe Goodbody will discuss his new book KENTUCKY BARRACUDA: Parker Hardin French (1826-1878) – The Notorious Scoundrel and Delightful Rogue of Antebellum & Civil War America
The Stone Walls and Structures of England and New England; an Evolution
Andrew Pighills will compare and contrast geology, building styles, and techniques, and follow the development and evolution of stone walls and structures in England and New England from Colonial times to the present day, and explain how they fit into the garden and wider landscape past and present.
Wednesday, July 26th, 7:00 pm
at the Blackstone Library
EVENT RECAP
On Wednesday, July 26, 2017, Branford residents were informed and entertained at a presentation sponsored by the Branford Historical Society featuring Andrew Pighills, a local stone artisan. His slideshow followed the development and evolution of stone walls and structures in England and New England from Colonial times to the present day. He compared and contrasted geology, building styles, and techniques and explained how they fit into the garden and wider landscape past and present.
His knowledge of the subject was extensive and his demeanor was charming and delightful. He showed the ingenuity and craftsmanship that went into construction of the stone walls and structures of then and now.
In his words, “the more I can make their history a part of our lives, the better chance there is of preserving this wonderful heritage for future generations.”
If you missed this program, it can be viewed online on the Branford Community Television website.
Branford During World War I
Tuesday April 25, 2017 at the Blackstone Library, local author Ted Braun brought to life what it was like living in Branford during The Great War, from original research of Llewellyn Barker’s Wartime Diaries, 1914-1919.
This presentation is based on Braun’s recent publication The Barkers of Branford: Life In America Through A Local Lens.
The Most Famous Private in George Washington's Continental Army
Wednesday, March 28th 7:00 pm at the Branford High School Auditorium
Tim Chaucer will portray Joseph Plumb Martin as a 70-year old man recalling his days as a much younger man during the Revolutionary War.
2017 Annual Meeting & Dinner
Thursday, May 18, 2017 at the
Pine Orchard Club
The Facts about Branford Flax!
A talk and presentation by:
Historian Jane Bouley and Weaver Robert Aiudi
Learn about the role flax played in Colonial Branford, how it influenced and clothed a community, and how it is still observed in town today. Flax fibers, a flax spinning wheel, and flax processing tools from the Harrison House will be exhibited.
Strawberry Shortcake at the Bfd. Fest.
Fresh sweet strawberries & real whipped cream!
June 17, 2017 ~ Saturday only 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
(or until berries run out!)
Next to the Trinity Church
Annual Open House Holiday Party
Sunday Dec. 4, 2016
1pm to 3pm
at the Harrison House Museum
Why is the Trolley Museum important?
Tom Laurenson will talk about the story of the trolley and related forms of mass transit in their historical, social, economic, experiential and skills aspects. October 25th at 7pm at the Blackstone Library. The Shore Line Trolley Museum maintains and operates a number of trolley and rapid transit cars, and is the custodian of photographs, documents and artifacts which preserve the history & heritage of the Trolley Era.
History & Geology of Lake Saltonstall
Sunday, November 19th at 1:00 p.m.
The Regional Water Authority and the Branford Historical Society will lead a joint trip at Lake Saltonstall to talk about the area’s history during the colonial period, as a recreational playground in the 1890’s and regional reservoir.
Strawberry Shortcake at the Branford Festival
Fresh sweet strawberries & real whipped cream!
June 16, 2018 ~ Saturday only
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
(or until berries run out!)
Next to the Trinity Church
A Discussion and Book Signing
At Lenny’s
Wed. Dec. 3, 2014 at 12:00 noon
with Jane Bouley
“The Civil War Through the Eyes of
John Towner of Branford”
‘Branford’s Civil War Soldiers’
a talk by Jane Bouley
Wednesday Oct 29th 7pm
at the Blackstone Library
Suggested donation $5.00
Jane has done extensive research and will introduce your to Branford’s Civil War Soldiers of the 15th and 27th Regiment who fought in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. Find out where they lived, worked, loved, fought and died. True local Civil War history, not to be missed!
Cemetery Walk at Center Cemetery
with Al Russell
Saturday Sept 27th 1pm
Suggested donation $5.
See and learn the history of the cemetery, the stones, crosses, epitaphs and more. One of the oldest cemeteries in town.
Strawberry Shortcake
at the Branford Festival
Traditional Strawberry Shortcake with real whipped cream!!
'Stony Creek Summer Hotels'
An informative talk by Jane Bouley
Willoughby Wallace Library
Friday, Jan. 24, 7 pm
Annual Christmas Open House
December 8, 1pm to 3:30pm
Indian Neck talk at Lenny's
December 4, 11:00am
Indian Neck talk at Lenny's
Replay – Stories from Indian Neck
January 22, 6:30pm
Strawberry Shortcake at the Branford Festival
Fresh sweet strawberries & real whipped cream!
June 15, 2024 ~ Saturday only
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
(or until berries run out!)
Near the Souvenir Tent
Next to the Trinity Church
To volunteer, contact membership@branfordhistoricalsociety.org
or call (203) 488-4828
This Land is Our Land: Lanphier Cove Association, A Remarkable Story
April 17th, 2024 at 6:00pm
at the Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us as co-authors, Lorraine Doyle, Joann Terry Nelson, and Denise Doyle Fincke share stories from their book and talk about the Branford summer colony’s 100-year history and path to land ownership.
2023 Annual Holiday Open House
December 3, 2023 1:00pm to 3:00pm
at the Harrison House Museum
Join us for an afternoon to get in the holiday spirit, meet other members, and enjoy holiday decorations and tasty refreshments, including warm mulled apple cider. Guides will welcome you as you tour the House, the Barn, and our current Exhibits. There will be raffles, including our decorated Christmas tree, center pieces and wreaths.
Center Cemetery Walking Tour
BHS Members Only
November 4th, 2023 at 2:00pm
(Raindate: Sunday, November 5th)
at 171 Montowese Street
Please join Branford Historical Society President, Matt Radulski, for a walking tour of historic Center Cemetery. Established in the 1640s, the cemetery tells the story of more than three centuries of Branford’s history and people.
This special tour is just for Branford Historical Society members, and will be limited to the first 15 members who respond.
If you are interested, please email programs@
To read a very interesting history of Center Cemetery on the Town of Branford website CLICK HERE.
Alden M. Young:
Branford’s Thomas Edison?
October 11th, 2023 at 6:00pm
at the Blackstone Memorial Library
The Shoreline Trolley Museum. The Pine Orchard Yacht & Country Club. Some of the Branford Land Trust properties. Stone pillars. The light switches in your home. Yowago Avenue. What do all of these have in common? If you’ve guessed already, you know some Branford history! The common link is Mr. Alden Young. Join Matt Radulski, our own Branford Historical Society President, for a presentation of all Alden Young’s amazing contributions to our town!
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
Strawberry Shortcake at the Branford Festival
Fresh sweet strawberries & real whipped cream!
June 17, 2023 ~ Saturday only
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
(or until berries run out!)
Near the Souvenir Tent
Next to the Trinity Church
To volunteer, contact membership@branfordhistoricalsociety.org
or call (203) 488-4828
Keep on Digging:
Using Land Records for Genealogy Research
Wednesday, April 26th at 6:00PM at the Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us as Town Historian, Jane Bouley shares how to use land records to uncover a wealth of historical genealogical information.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
The Oystering Life
Wednesday, March 15th at 7:00PM at the Stony Creek Congregational Church
BACA and The Branford Historical Society are sponsoring a screening of “The Oystering Life”, a feature-length documentary about the history of oystering along the Connecticut shoreline.
2022 Annual Holiday
Open House
Sunday, December 4th, 2022
1:00pm to 3:00pm
at the Harrison House Museum
It’s back! Join us for an afternoon to get in the holiday spirit, meet other members, and enjoy holiday decorations, the tasty refreshments, including warm mulled apple cider, and holiday music. Guides will welcome you as you tour the House, the Barn, and our current Exhibits. There will be raffles, including our decorated Christmas tree, center pieces, and wreaths.
2022 Annual Meeting & Dinner
Wednesday, September 21st at 4:30pm at WoodWinds in Branford
Presenting a talk by Jane Bouley
“The Early Settlers of Branford Revisited”
Secret Connecticut:
A Guide to the Weird,
Wonderful, and Obscure
Wednesday, May 4th, 2022
6:30pm at the Blackstone Memorial Library
Travel writer and author, Anastasia Mills Healy, will give a talk regarding her newly published book. She’ll share intriguing stories about Connecticut’s people, places, and history from her book “Secret Connecticut”.
Did you know that a Connecticut resident was president before George Washington, and flew before the Wright Brothers? Or that you can descend into a former copper mine that doubled as America’s first state prison? As a travel writer during a pandemic,
Greenwich resident Stasha Healy turned her attention to her home state and found 84
surprising stories that she compiled in “Secret Connecticut: A Guide to the Weird,
Wonderful, and Obscure”. Healy will share fascinating, little-known tales about the state that will make even the most well-informed lifelong resident say, “I didn’t know that!”
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
2021 (Virtual) Annual Meeting
Tuesday, November 16th at 7:00pm
via Zoom (info. in email invitation)
Presenting Special Guests, Tom Laurenson from the Shoreline Trolley Museum, and Mary Lee Weber from the Stony Creek Museum
Branford Beginnings Follow-Up Q&A
Wednesday, April 21st, 2021
7:00pm online through the
Blackstone Memorial Library
A follow-up to our February presentation, join us again as Joe Naylor answers your questions about the early history of Branford. Please feel free to email any questions before the event to programs@branfordhistoricalsociety.org. You will also be able to write in the chat box during the presentation for live interaction.
Note: Registration is required to receive a link to attend this online event.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
Branford Beginnings
Wednesday, February 17th, 2021
7:00pm online through the
Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us as our very own Board Member and House & Grounds Chair, Joe Naylor, shares about the early history of Branford and the significance of his own ancestors’ participation in its founding. You’ll be more than happy you tuned in to hear Joe’s wealth of fascinating knowledge on these important events in our town’s history.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
The Lafayette Trail
Wednesday, September 9th, 2020
7:00pm online through the
Blackstone Memorial Library
Join us as Julien Icher, founder and president of the Lafayette Trail, Inc., speaks about French Continental Army General Lafayette and his farewell tour of the United States in 1824. Come and learn about his significant role in the Revolutionary War and the importance of his final visit to America.
Weren’t able to make it? No problem. Click below to view the recording.
The History of the Branford Community House
Wednesday, February 19th, 2020
7:00pm at the The Community House
Join us for an exciting presentation by
Alex Paluzzi, Branford Parks & Rec. Director about this history of this special building and its deep roots in our town, at the newly rennovated Community House.
Annual Holiday Open House
December 8, 2019 1:00pm to 3:00pm
at the Harrison House Museum
Join us for an afternoon to get in the holiday spirit, meet other members, and enjoy holiday decorations, the tasty refreshments, including warm mulled apple cider, and lovely music by classical guitarist, Bob Wood. Guides will welcome you as you tour the House, the Barn, and our current Exhibits. There will be raffles, including our decorated Christmas tree, center pieces and wreaths.
Armory Open House
The Branford Armory will be open to the public
for the first time in almost 20 years.
Saturday, June 29th from 11 am – 5 pm
The Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA), partnering with the Branford Historical Society, and the Second Company Governor’s Foot Guard will present a day long series of activities in celebration of Branford’s 375th birthday.
There will be a performances by the Foot Guard Band, the Stony Creek Fife & Drum Corps, and a presentation by Legacy Theatre. A special art exhibit featuring scenes of Branford as interpreted by local artists, together with some vintage paintings, will celebrate the beauty of our community.
There will be professionals on hand to appraise your family heirloom and exhibits that will highlight the special features of each of Branford’s neighborhoods.
A strawberry market will be a reference to the time when Branford supplied strawberries to much of the northeast, and, of course, tours of the iconic Armory will take place throughout the day.
Strawberry Shortcake at the Branford Festival
Fresh sweet strawberries & real whipped cream!
June 15, 2019 ~ Saturday only
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
(or until berries run out!)
Near the Souvenir Tent
Next to the Trinity Church
Annual Holiday Open House
December 9, 2018 1:00pm to 3:30pm
at the Harrison House Museum
Join us for an afternoon to get in the holiday spirit, meet other members, and enjoy holiday decorations, the tasty refreshments, including warm mulled apple cider, and lovely music by classical guitarist, Bob Wood. Guides will welcome you as you tour the House, the Barn, and our current Exhibits. There will be raffles, including our decorated Christmas tree, center pieces and wreaths.
The Life and Times of Morton F. Plant
7:00 p.m. on July 11, 2018
at the Branford High School Auditorium
Gail B. MacDonald brings to life this important figure in CT history and demonstrates his long-reaching impact in her book,
Morton F. Plant and the Connecticut Shoreline.
It Happened in Connecticut
a talk by Diana Ross McCain
Wednesday October 26, 7pm
at the Blackstone Library
Diana Ross McCain will present and speak on “Genius, Grit, and Sacrifice: Connecticut’s role in the American Revolution”.
‘The Barkers of Branford, Life in America through a Local Lens’
Wednesday July 13, 7pm
at the Blackstone Library
Ted Braun will present and speak on his new book
Ted’s book is based on the Diaries of Llewellyn Barker (1850-1937) who started his diary at the age of 14, and continued for 72 years. It gives a revealing perspective of local Branford life, as well as national and world events during this time frame from Lincoln to Roosevelt.
Annual Meeting & Dinner
Friday, May 20, 2015
The Owenego Inn, 40 Linden Ave.
History of The Atlantic Wire Company
A talk by Historian Jane Bouley
Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00 pm
Blackstone Memorial Library
Jane Bouley will give a talk and slide presentation on the History of The Atlantic Wire Company. Beginning with early Branford settler John Wilford who owned the land on Meadow Street, to William Hitchcock, his family and the wire company he started in 1906. Jane will discuss the building, the process of wire drawing, and the many products that were produced by using the wire from
The Atlantic Wire Company.
Sponsored by the Branford Historical Society, donations will be accepted and appreciated in support of the Harrison House. Refreshments will be served.
Annual Open House Christmas Party
December 6, 1pm to 3pm
at the Harrison House Museum
An enjoyable afternoon of merriment, with refreshments, entertainment, and decorations, in the historic Harrison House Museum. This traditional annual event is intended to get everyone into the Holiday Spirit! Guides will welcome you as you tour the House, the Barn, and our current Exhibits. There will be raffles, including the decorated Christmas tree. Sing along with classical guitarist Bob Wood as he plays traditional holiday favorites.
West End String Trio
Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m.
Baptist Church, Branford Green
to benefit the Branford Historical Society
Malleable Iron Fittings Company (MIF) Dedication & Open House
Dedication of MIF Monument
Thurs. Oct. 29th 3:30 p.m.
at the Stony Creek Brewery
5 Indian Neck Ave.
A monument dedicated to the employees and contribution of the MIF made to the Town of Branford will be unveiled.
The public is invited to attend.
MIF Open House
A reception will be held
Sunday, November 15th
at the Stony Creek Brewery
from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
MIF workers, their families and descendants are invited to attend. Guests are encouraged to bring photographs
and share their stories.
Historical Walking Tour of the Branford Green
with Al Russell
October 17th at 1p.m. at the Branford Town Hall.
‘Branford Firefighting, Saving Lives and Property’
a talk by Dorrance Johnson
Dorrance Johnson will be speaking about the history of Branford’s Fire Department, highlighting Branford’s major historic fires and the brave and dedicated firefighters who protect us.
Strawberry Shortcake
At the Branford Festival
June 20th 2015
Serving our traditional Strawberry Shortcakes of fresh hand hulled sweet strawberries and real whipped cream
Annual Dinner
at the Owenego Inn
40 Linden Ave. Branford
Thurs. May 7, 2015
A Guided Tour- A History of the Harrison House
by Jane Bouley
Wicked New Haven
Wednesday ~ March 25th ~ 7pm
The Blackstone Library
A talk by Michael J. Bielawa
Michael presented his latest book, ‘Wicked New Haven’, which journeys into New England’s realm of legend and superstition.
Annual Christmas Open House
December 7, 1pm to 3:30pm
at the Harrison House Museum
Join us for an afternoon to get in the holiday spirit, meet other members, and enjoy …the holiday decorations, …the tasty refreshments including a warm mulled apple cider, …the lovely classical guitar music. You will have a chance to win a raffle prize of our decorated Christmas tree, or a wreath/center pieces made by our members, and also a great opportunity to tour the Harrison House and Barn.
“Vampires of New England”
a Movie Documentary
by Historical Haunts
Tuesday Sept. 23rd 7pm at
The Blackstone Library
$5.00 suggested donation
This award winning documentary, created by filmmaker Alec Asten, tells of the Tillinghast tale, exploring the fact and folklore of vampirism in Rhode Island. The findings may surprise you, as sometimes truth is stranger than fiction!
A Presentation by NPIS Revealing evidence of Paranormal Activity at the Harrison House
Thursday July 10, 7pm at
The Blackstone Library
$5.00 suggested donation
Annual Dinner
At the Owenego Inn
40 Linden Ave. Branford
Thurs. May 8, 2014
Dan Sineti
A recap of our past year, a look at the year to come, door prizes, desert, and entertainment by Dan Sineti. Dan is apart-time sea shanteyman at historic Mystic Seaport.
The Story of Tom Thumb
at The Blackstone Library
Wednesday April 2, 2014 7pm
1938 - The Great New England Hurricane
75 years ago
Recalling the impact on Branford
~ A talk by Jane Bouley ~
The Blackstone Library
September 12, 2013
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
$5.00 donation suggested
DVD of this talk $15.00
Earl Colter's 100th Birthday
Members of the Branford Historical Society are invited by the Colter family to attend a party in honor of Earl Colter’s birthday Saturday, May 18th from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Blackstone Library. Tickets for the event are $10.00 or $5.00 for Seniors and can be obtained at the Library, Caron’s Corner and by contacting Doug Colter, 67 Stony Creek Road, Doug76@comcast.net. Refreshments will be served and historic photos taken by Earl during World War II and around Branford will be on view. Proceeds benefit the Branford Historical Society and Blackstone Library.
Strawberry Shortcake Festival
Our 34th Annual
at The Academy on the Green
Saturday, June 15th 2013 ~ 10:30-3:30
or until the berries run out!
Presale Tickets @ $6.00 –$7.00 Day of Event
Checks payable to Branford Historical Society
P. O. Box 504, Branford 06405
Additional tickets call
Jane Bouley 203-488-6531
To volunteer for hulling Friday June 14th
Contact Winnifred Judge 203-488-8755
To volunteer on Saturday contact Mike Russo 203-488-8096
CORRECTION: 7pm, October 17, 2013