The Connecticut State Museum of Natural History and Connecticut Archaeology Center, part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at UConn, presents “Exploring Connecticut’s Towns”, a new series that will look at natural and cultural history from a local perspective. The first town to be explored is Manchester, CT on Saturday, April 12, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.
The natural and cultural history of Connecticut, in each of its 169 towns, has a unique story to tell. From the indigenous peoples arriving after the glaciers receded, and the European explorers and settlers establishing colonies in the “New World,” to the innovators of the industrial revolution leading to the present day, Connecticut is steeped in history. Join us as we explore Connecticut’s towns and learn about the people and places that have shaped and continue to shape the Constitution State.
The first town to be explored in the series is Manchester, “A City of Village Charm.” From its farming community beginnings as part of Hartford and then East Hartford, Manchester was incorporated in 1823 and became an important industrial center that included the E.E. Hilliard Company Woolen Mills, Union Cotton Mills, and the Cheney Brothers silk manufacturing company. The Case Brothers left their mark on Manchester, operating successful paper mills and establishing the Tonica Springs water-bottling plant, with international distribution of “Highland Rock Water.” The Case Family was also known for sharing their wilderness land with the public for numerous outdoor activities, with the hiking trails of Case Mountain still popular to this day.
Join Susan Barlow from the Manchester Historical Society, along with a few special guest speakers, and explore the grounds of A. Wells Case’s mansion. A. Wells Case was the Case brother who established the carriage paths, stairs, and bridges in the Case Mountain area. Learn how the Case family rebuilt after fires and floods. Then climb to the summit of Case Mountain for remarkable views of Manchester and Hartford, and learn about the Eastern Border Fault that cuts through the state.
This hike may be challenging for some, and will include a 2.5-mile walk, a steep hill, and some rocky and bumpy terrain.
The program fee is $15, $10 for Museum members. Advance registration is required. This program is for adults and children ages 8 and above. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For further information visit http://www.cac.uconn.edu/mnhcurrentcalendar.html or call 860.486.4460.
The Connecticut State Museum of Natural History and Connecticut Archaeology Center are part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at UConn.
For more information, contact: Natural History Museum at 860.486.4460