While Newtown Historical Society cannot promise silver bells for the holidays, there will be an Open House at The Matthew Curtiss House, 44 Main Street, on Sunday, December 8, from noon until 4 pm.

The following evening, the society will host its monthly presentation at C.H. Booth Library. This month’s program will look at this historic Allied invasion of Normandy.

Sunday afternoon, The Matthew Curtiss House will be decorated in keeping with the long history of the circa 1750 dwelling.

Entertainment will be provided by tenor Tim McKee, who will be singing holiday and other songs. Mr McKee has serenaded audiences worldwide, provides “Singing Telephone grams,” serves as master of ceremonies, and is a special event soloist.

The Ridgefield resident also offers classes, workshops, and master classes in acting, vocal coaching, improvisation, and other subjects as well as hosts at home improv parties.

Refreshments will be served throughout the open house, which is free and open to the public.

Costumed docents will be available to lead tours and answer questions about the house’s history and the items in the society’s collection.

The open house is the same day as the Holiday Festival being presented by Newtown Youth & Family Services, with many events happening along Main Street, so the historical society is hoping many people will enjoy both offerings.

Following the open house, the historical society will hold its annual potluck holiday party, beginning at 5 pm. All members are invited, including those who would like to join in time for the party; call 203-426-5937 or visit newtownhistory.org for additional information.

‘Allied Invasion’ Rescheduled

On Monday, December 9, John Cilio hopes to again present “The Allied Invasion of Normandy,” a program that was postponed from November due to weather. His program at the library, 25 Main Street, will begin at 7:30 pm.

The war in Europe had gone on for five long years. Just as the English Channel had protected Britain from Nazi invasion, now the Channel protected occupied Europe from liberation.

On June 6, 1944, D-Day, that protection was breached, and the massive Allied force began a ten-month process of ending the Third Reich.

The mammoth undertaking was to become one of the most pivotal events of the 20th Century. Its complexity, ingenuity, and decisive effect on the war make it unique.

John Cilio lives in Sherman and has been a historian and storyteller for 20 years, authoring six books and more than 200 articles on a broad range of topics. He believes that the consequences of a historical event are often hidden from those who experience it, and only by looking back can one sense the full impact of the moment in time.

His goal is to make history relevant, engaging, and enlightening. He has prepared a 30-minute educational and entertaining video he will begin screening at 7 pm for those who wish to arrive early.

All Newtown Historical Society programs are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the program.

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