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What exactly is a Barn Raising? Leslie Nolan, director of the Wilton Historical Society, says “Back when Wilton was a farming town, a barn raising brought the community together for a building project, and it was a social event as well. our Barn Raising Day is like that. You can learn about all kinds of historical activities, from barn raising to blacksmithing to colonial militia. And our Great Letterboxing History Hunt kicks off! There will be demonstrations, crafts, and even a talk on the Battle of Ridgefield. It’s a great family day.”
Barn Raising Day activities includes:
• march and drill with the 5th Connecticut Regiment • learn about the cannon • raise a child-size barn • try your hand at spoke shaving (barn pegs) • see a blacksmith at his forge • learn about embroidery (cross stitch, knotwork, blackwork, smocking and fine hand sewing) • have a taste and vote! Second Annual Heritage Baking Contest • play with colonial toys on the lawn • hear a talk at noon and 3 p.m. on the 1777 Danbury Raid and Battle of Ridgefield • search for the hidden letterbox
The 5th Connecticut Regiment’s Wilton Militia, is dedicated to educating the public on the role the State of Connecticut and its citizens played in the creation of the United States.
Edward Hynes will speak at noon and 3 p.m. on “The 1777 Danbury Raid and the Battle of Ridgefield”. His presentation follows the British on their four-day raid and the Patriots’ attempt to deny them safe return to their ships.
Eight Fairfield County historical organizations have banded together to create the First Annual Great Letterboxing History Hunt. The event begins on Barn Raising Day, and ends on May 18 with a party at the Wilton Historical Society from 4 to 5 p.m.
Exhibitions open in the Burt Barn and the Sloan House Gallery: Changing Times: Hand Tools Before the Industrial Revolution, Connecticut Tools of the Trades from the Walter R.T. Smith Collection and Tavern Signs & Paintings: Heidi Howard, Maker & Painter.
The Wilton Historical Society is located at 224 Danbury Road. Call 203.762.7257 or visit its website for more information.
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