Colonial Dancing At Next Historical Society Open House

Newtown Historical Society will host an open house at its headquarters, The Matthew Curtiss House, on Sunday, May 22.

The public is invited to visit and tour the building at 44 Main Street any time between noon and 4 pm. Admission is free, however, donations are welcomed and appreciated. Junior and senior docents will be available to answer questions about the house and its history and will provide guided tours by request.

During the open house, The Reel Nutmeg Country Dancers will be demonstrating Colonial dancing. The troupe was established in 1978 and is known for its unique and exciting choreography. It has danced at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C., and the 92nd Street Y in New York City, as well as various folk festivals.

Visitors to the Matthew Curtiss House will be invited to join the troupe and learn a few steps themselves. Sessions will begin at 1, 2 and 3 o’clock.

The Matthew Curtiss House is a fine example of Connecticut saltbox architecture. It was constructed circa 1750 and purchased by Matthew Curtiss, Jr, in 1781. Newtown Historical Society then purchased the house in 1970 and restored the house to its original condition.

For more information, visit NewtownHistory.org or call 203-426-5937.