The Matthew Curtiss House, home of Newtown Historical Society at 44 Main Street, is one of the oldest buildings on Main Street. It was constructed about 1750, and purchased by Matthew Curtiss in 1781; Curtiss continued to live there until his death in 1824.

Maintained by the historical society as a house museum, the society's collections on display are intended to represent the house throughout its life, not just the period of Curtiss ownership.

The artifacts range from a tall case clock made in Newtown in the 1780s by Ebenezer Smith, to a 19th Century weathervane that swung round the barn of Scrabble developer James Brunot in the 20th Century, to 20th Century graphics and needlework. All the items in the house reflect either a direct Newtown connection or are examples of things that might well have been used in the town.

The historical society will offer a chance to view these treasures in their context within the Curtiss House on Sunday, April 15, conducting an open house at the historic building from noon to 4 pm. Costumed docents will be available to lead tours, or guests will be free to walk through the house on their own.

A special demonstration of making potpourri using colonial herbs and recipes will be offered, with visitors welcome to make a sachet of their own to take home. The sachet program was scheduled for the historical society's March open house, but was postponed. A donation of $2 is requested to cover materials.

For further information visit newtownhistory.org or call 203-426-5937.

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