Derby Public Library to display local history postcards in March

DERBY >> The Derby Public Library holds weekly Local History Information Sessions on Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

Along with offering research assistance, the library’s Local History Coordinator also offers information on monthly highlighted topics. During the month of March, Local History Postcards will be available to view and discuss. Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s progressively updated local history database. Assistance will also be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events and more.

For more information, stop by the library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

Derby Public Library offers local history information sessions

DERBY >> The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions on Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-noon.

The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the library.

Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the library’s progressively updated local history database. Assistance will also be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events and more.

For more information, stop by the library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

This is a press release from Library Director Cathy Williams.

Local history, movies, more on Derby Library calendar

DERBY - The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Wednesday Movie Matinees series

for ages 18 and over.   
           Newly released DVDs will be shown at 1 p.m. every Wednesday.
           Light snacks will be provided. Registration is requested. 

           For a list of featured films, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482.  

Local history

The Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions from 6-7:40 p.m. Tuesdays and on Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays.

             The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the Library.   

            Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s progressively updated local history database.
            Assistance will also be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.  

Sports Talk

The Library is in its ninth season of the very popular Sports Talk series, held at 10 a.m.every Thursday.
These informal sessions will meet throughout the baseball season.   
Rich Marazzi, author and Major League Baseball Rules consultant, facilitates. Each session includes trivia contests, videos, lively conversation and more.   

           All ages, rookies through veterans are invited to join Marazzi and his group of Silver Sluggers.   

              No registration is necessary. For more information, stop by the Library, 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.  


This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Derby Library offers movies, local history

DERBY - The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Wednesday Movie Matinees series for ages 18 and over.
Newly released DVDs will be shown at 1 p.m. every Wednesday.

Light snacks will be provided. Registration is requested.  

Local history sessions

       The Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays. 
         The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the Library. 

      Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s progressively updated local history database. 
      Assistance will also be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.  

     For information on any program, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call

203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.  


This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Today is Open House Day

There are lots of interesting places to visit throughout the state today!

Here in the Valley there will be open houses at the Derby Historical Society's Gen. David Humphreys House in Ansonia and the Osborne Homestead Museum in Derby.

Check out this site for more information. 

Derby Library continues matinee series, history sessions

DERBY - The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Wednesday Movie Matinees series

for ages 18 and over.

Newly-released DVDs will be shown at 1 p.m. every Wednesday.  Light snacks will be provided.  Registration is requested. 


For a list of featured films, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482.  

Local history

The Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays.

The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the Library. 
Visitors also will be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s progressively updated local history database. 
Assistance will be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.

For more information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org. 

This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

          

Dugatto announces 3 Derby Hall of Fame inductees

 

DERBY - As a prelude to the annual Derby Day festivities, Mayor Anita Dugatto announced the selection of three new members to the Derby Hall of Fame, resident Jack Walsh said today in a release. 
Derby Day will be held June 14. 

The Class of 2014 represents a wide range of talents and interests on the local, national and international level. 

It includes a beloved local public servant, the founder of one of this nation's iconic chemical companies, and a respected international author, artist, and war correspondent.

Henry M. Bradley, Jr., Herbert Henry Dow, and Graham Peck are just three more of the exceptional men and women who passed through Derby on their way to fame.

Henry M. Bradley served as Derby's state senator in the 1930s and he authored the 1935 legislation that required the teaching of American History in Connecticut's high schools. 
He was a noted writer and lecturer on American history as well as a dedicated civic leader in his hometown of Derby.

Herbert Henry Dow grew up in Derby but is better known as a scientist, inventor and founder of the well-known Dow Chemical Co. 

Graham Peck also grew up in Derby and went on to a career as war correspondent, artist and author. This Yale University graduate is especially well known for his books on China written before and after World War II and warning of the tumultuous changes developing in that country. 

He also authored several children’s books. 
Though he died in Vermont in 1968, he is buried in Oak Cliff cemetery.

Hall of Fame has 38 members

With the three newest inductees the Derby Hall of Fame now numbers 38 members. 
Started in 2007, the Derby Hall of Fame is made up of Derby natives and residents who have helped to shape the course of history through their achievements at the local, state, national or international level. 

Each of these individuals selected was either born in Derby or lived here at some point in his/her life. Living individuals are not eligible for selection. The physical Hall of Fame can be found on the Plaza at the entrance to the Derby Greenway on Division Street. 

On Derby Day each year, the new members are recognized with a specially inscribed brick placed around the fountain in the center of the plaza. 

A more complete description of their accomplishments can be found in the Hall of Fame section of the Derby website (http://www.electronicvalley.org/derby/HallofFame/).


This is a press release from resident Jack Walsh, President and COO of Valley United Way.

Derby Public Library to remember Harcourt Wood's birthday

    DERBY - The staff of Derby Public Library will commemorate the birthday of Holton Harcourt

Wood, the young boy in whose memory the Library was built, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. June 19.

     The Library will be decorated with flowers in compliance with Col. H. Holton Wood’s request, which he made at the dedication of the Library in 1902. 
     At that time he asked that flowers be placed throughout the Library every year on the birth date of his son. His request has been honored ever since.
     Several years ago, the Library also added the tradition of commemorating this special day with a birthday cake. 

     This time honored tradition has become well know over the years, not only throughout the Valley, but well beyond.  It has been written about in the New York Times.

       A memorial plaque in Harcourt’s memory is displayed at the front entrance of the

Library.  The public is invited to visit throughout the day for cake and to learn more about the history of the Library. 
          For  information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St. or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

      

'Rivals' to play 19th-century ballgame at Ansonia 125 event

ANSONIA - Ever wonder how baseball was played in the1880s?

You'll be able to find out July 19 as the Ansonia Coppermen and the Derby Osbornedales take to the field at the Nolan Athletic Complex on Wakelee Avenue for an old-fashioned good time. 

The event is being organized by resident Greg Martin. It is part of the city's Ansonia 125 activities,
which celebrate the city's 125th anniversary.


Although I'm not really a sports fan, this story intrigued me. Looking forward to attending the game!

Derby Historical Society to host open house June 14

ANSONIA - Step back in time and join the Derby Historical Society for CT Open House Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 14.

Enjoy a tour led by costumed docents of the Gen. David Humphreys House and/or an outside walking tour of the historic Elm Street district. 

Gen. David Humphreys House, 37 Elm St., Ansonia

Colonial chores, activities, and demonstrations will be performed throughout the day. 

Be sure to stop by the gift shop.

Refreshments, including a cake to celebrate Ansonia 125, the city's 125the anniversary, will be served.   

This event is free; donations to benefit the Humphreys House Restoration Project are accepted and greatly appreciated.  

Parking is available in the lot behind the Humphreys House, 37 Elm St., and on nearby Thomas Street.   

For information visit www.derbyhistorical.org.

Staff offices are located at the Sarah Riggs Humphreys House, 37 Elm St.

This post is taken from a press release from the Derby Historical Society, a regional organization dedicated to preserving, maintaining, and celebrating the rich and varied history of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. 

Local history to come alive at Derby Public Library

DERBY - The Derby Public Library welcomes back Rob Novak, Jr., local historian, at 6:30 p.m. June 9 to discuss Yesterday’s Headlines. 

Novak has specialized in presenting local history in fun, interactive formats for both general and specialized audiences for more than 20 years.  

He is past director of the Derby Historical Society and City of Shelton’s Municipal Historian.  

In addition, Novak has authored four books through Arcadia Publications, and has been a popular historical columnist.

Participants will be taken back to 1914, 1939, and 1964 to see what was happening locally 100, 75,

and 50 years ago in the Valley.

Registration is requested. For more information stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203- 736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

Derby Library offers ongoing programs on history, baseball, movies

DERBY - The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions from 6-7:30 p.m.Tuesdays and from 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays.   

The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the Library.   

Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to

search the Library’s progressively updated local history database.  Assistance will also be

available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.   

Sports Talk

The Library is in its ninth season of the popular Sports Talk series, held at 10 a.m. every Thursday.

These informal sessions will meet throughout the baseball season.  Rich Marazzi, author and Major League Baseball Rules consultant facilitates. 
Each session includes trivia contests, videos, lively conversation and more. 
All ages, rookies through veteran,s are invited to join Marazzi and his group of Silver Sluggers.  No registration is necessary. 

Movie Matinees
The Library continues its weekly Wednesday Movie Matinees series for ages 18 and over.

Newly released DVDs will be shown at 1 p.m. every Wednesday.

Light snacks will be provided.  Registration is requested.  For a list of featured

films or for information on any programs stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482.  

This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Ansonia commission applauds essay contest winners

Ansonia Mayor David S. Cassetti congratulates Assumption School seventh grader Jordyn Davis. / Contributed photo

ANSONIA - "I want to thank the Historical Society for another successful year in putting the essay contest together again, Mayor David S. Cassetti said earlier this week. "This year the Historical Commission received over 40 student entries and I am proud of them all.”

"The Historical Commission fosters the importance of our city’s history and educates students.     I am thrilled with the commitment of our students to spend the time to learn the history and write essays for this contest," Cassetti said. 

For more than 10 years the Historical Commission has assigned different themes for the essay contests. These themes give students a chance to learn and gain the city’s importance of its history. This year students were asked to write about Pork Hollow.
The student essays were all numbered and their names remained anonymous to the judges.
One person knows which student is assigned to which number and as the two judges go through all the essays, they pick the top three best “numbered students.”
Winners were selected based upon their accuracy, in depth of history, and individuality.

Congratulations to the top three winners; Jordyn Davis, Liam Hines, and Matthew Torres.

The honorable mention winners were Joshua Proctor, Gillian Nemec, and Jonathan Abate all of Assumption School.

“Parents, you should be proud of your student efforts and I thank you for encouraging your children to learn about Ansonia," Cassetti said.
"A special thanks goes to Kathleen Molner, Principal of Assumption School, and Amy O’Brien, Ansonia Middle School principal, for their cooperation in the contest," Cassetti said.

This is a press release from Mayor David S. Cassetti's office.

Love local history? Derby Public Library offers info

       DERBY - The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays.

      The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the Library.

     Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s progressively updated local history database. 

Assistance will also be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.  

For more information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., or call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.  


This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Ansonia's Revolutionary War hero to 'appear' at event in Wethersfield

David Loda and Huckleberry photographed in May 2012 at the grand opening of the Oxford Historical Society's Twitchell-Rowland Homestead. / Photo by Ralph Villers

WETHERSFIELD - Thundering across a field at a full canter toward his “adversary,” an 18^th century soldier raises his sword and slashes through… a melon? 

Mock battle scene/Contributed photo

Horseman David Loda, a Seymour native, will re-enact this and other mock battle scenes as he portrays Lt. Col. David Humphreys, aide-de-camp to Gen. George Washington, during the sixth annual Revolutionary War Encampment at the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum. 

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  May 24, 2014 at 211 Main St., Old Wethersfield, following the Wethersfield Memorial Day parade.

Admission to the encampment is free; regular admission rates will be charged for optional tours of the museum.

Loda - a retired Navy pilot from the 21^st century - will demonstrate “horsemanship with arms,” skills from the 18^thcentury, including both sword and pistol.  
He creates a dashing figure in full Continental uniform and tricorn hat and astride his gleaming Morgan horse, Huckleberry. 

When Loda portrays Humphreys—barreling across a battlefield toward a “soldier” portrayed by a melon perched atop a post— visitors easily grasp the level of discomfort their forbears felt when faced with a charging, sword-wielding horseman.

'Surprise' attack planned

The WDS Revolutionary War Encampment also includes members of the 54^th Regiment of Foot, a dashing band of British redcoats whose safety is uncertain once they commence a “surprise” attack on the Continental soldiers at 1 p.m. 
Also featured will be the wildly popular fare created by Liberty Tea, bakers who create delicious homemade treats from historic recipes, using all-natural ingredients. The baked goods sold out at the 2013 encampment.

The WDS Revolutionary War Encampment offers visitors the chance to interact closely with members of the Fifth Connecticut Regiment in full Colonial costume, with entertaining demonstrations of marching and musket firing, 18th century open-fire cookery, and enchanting harp and dulcimer music. Shortly after the regiment partakes of its midday meal, children in attendance will be invited to learn to march and perform drills with wooden “muskets.”
The British are expected to attack at 1 p.m. A fascinating display and discussion of the medical and surgical techniques used in the late 1700s, and an exhibit of period clothing and fashions, are also featured. The encampment is underwritten, in part, by a grant from the Society of the Cincinnati in the State of Connecticut.

David Humphreys served as principal of the Wethersfield public school following his graduation from Yale University in 1771. 

During the American Revolution, he served as aide-de-camp to generals Putnam, Greene, and finally from 1780 to the end of the war, George Washington.
Loda’s portrayal of Humphreys at the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum encampment is particularly significant as the Joseph Webb House is where Gen. Washington and French Lt. General Rochambeau planned the joint military campaign that led to the victory at Yorktown, Va., and the end of the American Revolutionary War. 
Humphreys had the honor of delivering the surrendered British flags from the Battle of Yorktown to the Continental Congress.

About the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum

Located in the heart of Connecticut’s largest historic district, the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum consists of three authentically restored 18th-century homes and provides the quintessential New England experience - from the American Revolution to the early 20th century. 

Tours include the 1752 Joseph Webb House, where General George Washington met with French General Rochambeau, and planned the military campaign leading to the end of the Revolutionary War, the 1770 Silas Deane House, built for America’s first diplomat to France, and the 1788 Isaac Stevens House - depicting life in the 18th and 19th centuries through original family objects and a fascinating children’s exhibit. 

For rates and hours visit www.webb-deane-stevens.org or call 860-529-0612, ext. 12.


This post is taken from a press release.

Ansonia to host bike festival

This fun event for all ages is co-sponsored by Ansonia's Cultural Commission and Economic Development Commission. See you there!

Derby library offers local history, movie matinees

DERBY - The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions on Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and from 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays.

The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in

the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous resources available at the Library.

Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s

progressively updated local history database.

Assistance also will be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.

For more information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org. 



Movie matinees
The Library continues its weekly Wednesday Movie Matinees series for ages 18 and over. Newly released DVDs will be shown at 1 p.m. Wednesday.
Light snacks will be provided. 

Registration is requested.
For a list of featured films, stop by the Library or call 203-736-1482.  



This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Local history topic of talk at Derby library

DERBY -  The Derby Public Library welcomes back Rob Novak, Jr., local historian, at 6:30 p.m. March 24 to discuss Yesterday’s Headlines.

Novak has specialized in presenting local history in fun, interactive formats for general and specialized audiences for more than 20 years.

He is past director of the Derby Historical Society and City of Shelton’s Municipal Historian.
In addition, he has authored four books through Arcadia Publications, and has been a popular historical columnist.

Participants will be taken back to 1914, 1939, and 1964 to see what was happening locally 100, 75, and 50 years ago in the Valley.
Registration is requested.

For more information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482, or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.




This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Chamber of Commerce president to address Derby Historical Society

    DERBY - William Purcell, Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce president, will discuss the proposed Naugatuck River National Heritage Area at the Derby Historical Society’s annual meeting March 9.

    The meeting will be held at 2 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 137 Derby Ave.
    Purcell will show a short film and power point presentation on the sites of the proposed Heritage Area.
    The Society will elect officers and members of its Board of Directors, and the David Humphreys Service Award will be presented.

    Board member Elaine Brandon will present the Society with a copy of a new book, “Anson’s Glory: Ansonia and Phelps-Dodge,” written by her aunt, Elizabeth Crossland Matricaria.
    Refreshments will be served.
    Admission is free; donations are greatly appreciated.
    For information call the office, 203-735-1908, or email info@derbyhistorical.org.
   
    This is a press release from the Derby Historical Society, a regional historical society dedicated to preserving, maintaining and celebrating the rich and varied history of the Lower Naugatuck Valley.
    Staff offices are located at the Sarah Riggs Humphreys House, 37 Elm St., Ansonia. For more information, visit www.derbyhistorical.org.

Love history? Check out sessions at Derby Public Library

DERBY - The Derby Public Library continues its weekly Local History Information Sessions from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays.

The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the Library.

Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s progressively updated local history database.

Assistance will also be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.

For more information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.


This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.