Fireboards At Historical Society Open House

Newtown Historical Society will host an open house at its headquarters, The Matthew Curtiss House, Sunday, October 18. The house museum, a fine example of Connecticut saltbox architecture, was constructed circa 1750 and purchased by Matthew Curtiss, Jr, in 1781. In 1970 the Newtown Historical Society purchased and restored the house to its original condition.

The public is invited to visit and tour the building at 44 Main Street any time between noon and 4 pm. Admission is free.

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, Kirkman Jackson of Westport will do a presentation on fireboards. He will explain the history of the fireboard and the process involved in making one, which takes about a month. On display will be several of Mr Jackson’s own handmade fireboards.

The historical society is a nonprofit, all volunteer organization. During the year it offers open houses with living history demonstrations, a lecture series, a summer history camp for kids, and many special events. All funding comes from private donations, membership dues, bequests, and fundraisers such as the antique show, house and garden tour, and publication sales. New members are always welcome and volunteers are needed to help organize and run our many events.

To join or for more information, visit NewtownHistory.org or call 426-5937.