On Saturday, June 10^th from 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Windsor Historical Society joins the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism’s Open House Day by opening its facilities to the public free of charge.  Visitors will encounter people, places and events shaping Connecticut’s earliest English settlement for 373 years.  Fall under the spell of two charming 18^th century New England homes, evocative exhibition galleries, and the many fascinating old photographs, documents, and genealogical materials in our research library.  Families of all ages visiting our Hands-On-History Learning Center can try on colonial costumes, “cook” a meal in the fireplace, “milk” the cow, and attend a one-room school.

            Native American artifacts, rare 17^th century chests, costumes, cigar-maker’s molds, maps and more may be seen in our galleries.  Sniff some of the herbs in our 18^th century garden, and admire our quince and espaliered pear trees in our picturesque courtyard.

            Step into the 1758 John and Sarah Strong house and discover what life was like for Windsor men, women, and children of the 18^th and 19^th centuries.  Peek into a tiny corner room to see the town’s first post office.  Just down the hall, discover the small general store where a sea captain’s wife sold imported fabrics.

            Walk across the historic Palisado Green to Dr. Hezekiah Chaffee’s house and appreciate the life of this country doctor through the medical instruments, account books, and pharmaceutical recipes on display.  After exploring our library, end your visit in our museum shop by picking up a stoneware mug, exquisite note cards, a map or history book, and a candy-stick for the road.

            Casual visitors and serious researchers of all ages are bound to enjoy the unforgettable collections and ambiance of the Windsor Historical Society in historic and beautiful Windsor, Connecticut.    Visit several attractions on June 10^th; you will be able to pick up your free 2006 Vacation guide, an official Connecticut road map, and a list of other attractions and properties that are part of Connecticut Open House Day.