The Matthew Curtiss House, home of Newtown Historical Society, 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. He is sometimes called Junior, in deference to his father, the first of the family to live in Newtown, though the elder apparently lived in the Berkshire section of town.

Newtown Historical Society invites the public to visit the house, which serves as its headquarters, during an open house event this weekend. The building, at 44 Main Street, will be open Sunday, May 19, from noon to 4 pm.

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.

Artifacts range from a tall case clock made in Newtown in the 1780s by Ebenezer Smith and a 19th Century weathervane that swung round the barn of Scrabble developer James Brunot the following 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, whether for work, play, or to celebrate an occasion.

Costumed docents will be available to lead tours on Sunday. For those who would like to explore on their own, that option will also be welcomed.

In addition, Lisa Ronalter will also offer a paper quilling demonstration. Quilling involves using rolled and shaped strips of paper that are glued together to form decorative designs, which can be added to other objects such as greeting cards or left on their own as pieces of art.

Quilling, or paper filigree, is an ancient technique dating to at least the Renaissance. Guests will learn the history of the craft and then be invited to learn how to arrange, curl, and bend small strips of paper to create beautiful and detailed artwork to take home with them. All supplies will be provided.

Reservations are not needed, but additional information is available by calling 203-426-5937 or online at [naviga:u]newtownhistory.org[/naviga:u].