Colchester Historical Society Events
Throughout the year the Colchester Historical Society offers programs that explore Colchester’s rich past, introduce you to community members with similar interests, and allow you to unwind, relax, and learn something new about your town!
All events and programs take place at the Colchester History Museum unless otherwise noted. For more information, email us at: mail@colchesterhistory.org.
Storied History: World War I
Location: Cragin Memorial Library
Book discussions start at 6:30 pm, Free
Thursday, September 28:
–Book: One of Ours (1922) by Willa Cather
Thursday, October 26:
–Book: Maisie Dobbs (2003) by Jacqueline Winespear
Monday, November 6: (start time: 6 pm, Free)
–talk presented by Phil Devlin
Join the Colchester Historical Society and the Cragin Memorial Library for a new collaborative book discussion program, Storied History, which looks at history through the lens of literature! To commemorate the Centennial of World War I, two books related to the war have been selected for discussion, one classic and one contemporary. The last month will feature Phil Devlin, retired history teacher, sharing his research on WWI, and the Connecticut connections to the war. No reservations necessary, and all are welcome to attend. Haven’t finished the book? Join us anyway! For more information, email: mail@colchesterhistory.org.
Ghoulchester: A Graveyard Tour into the Past
Location: tour begins at Hayward Fire Company Museum on South Main Street
Friday, October 13, 6 pm to 7:30 pm
*(Rain Date: Sunday, October 15, 4 pm to 5:30 pm)*
Cost: $10 CHS members / $15 non-members / $25 families
Fortune-teller cost: $10 for 10-minute reading (optional; pay at Colchester History Museum)
Formerly known s the “Spooky Cemetery Tour,” the Colchester Historical Society’s newly-named Ghoulchester is still the same great popular program! During this tour of the Colchester Burying Ground, visitors will meet notable characters from Colchester’s past–as if they’ve just risen from their graves to share their stories!
Tours are guided and recommended for both adults and families with children. All children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear comfortable footwear, dress for the weather, and bring a flashlight to enhance your experience. Tour space is limited and advanced reservations are strongly recommended.
After your tour, meet a fortuneteller (extra cost; purchase tickets in advance of your tour, as tickets are limited) and enjoy free baked goods and apple cider refreshments at the nearby Colchester History Museum.
*If rain date is necessary, decision will be made by 12 noon on 10/13. Check the Colchester Historical Society Facebook page and CHS E-Blast for notification (join our on-line mailing list for the most up-to-date information on CHS activities). Event will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain; light precipitation will not cause event to be cancelled; dress appropriately.*
The historic Colchester Burying Ground, located behind the Old Bacon Academy, is one of the finest graveyards in eastern Connecticut housing the remains of many prominent citizens, and featuring exquisitely carved historic headstones. For more information, email: mail@colchesterhistory.org.