Newtown Historical Society will host an open house at its headquarters, The Matthew Curtiss House, 44 Main Street, on Sunday, December 8. The public is invited to visit between noon and 4 pm.

During the event, when the building will be traditionally decorated for the holidays, the sounds of historic and holiday tunes will fill the air. Rebecca and John Arkenberg and Bruce Larkin of Stratford will be performing from 1 to 3 pm. Guests will be invited to enjoy hot cider by the fire.

Junior and senior docents will be available to answer questions about the house and its history, as well as provide guided tours by request.

Admission is free; however, donations for the historical society will be welcomed and appreciated. A collection box will also be set up ready to receive donations to FAITH Food Pantry.

The Matthew Curtiss House, a fine example of Connecticut saltbox architecture, was constructed circa 1750 and purchased by Matthew Curtiss, Jr, in 1781. The historical society purchased the building in 1970 and restored the house to its original condition.

The historical society is a nonprofit, all volunteer organization. New members are always welcome.

For additional information about the open house or the historical society, visit www.newtownhistory.org or call 203-426-5937.