Newtown Historical Society will host an open house at its headquarters, The Matthew Curtiss House, on Sunday May 17, from noon to 4 pm.

Norman Cote of Norwalk will be this month’s special guest. He will compare colonial methods of beekeeping to modern methods, and will have samples of honey, beeswax, and pollen.

Mr Cote and his son, Andrew, have traveled around the world conducting educational programs, as well as assisting with the development of beekeeping programs in Africa and South America. They also run a successful honey beekeeping business.

The public is also invited to visit and tour the building at 44 Main Street.

The house/museum, a fine example of Connecticut saltbox architecture, was constructed circa 1750 and purchased by Matthew Curtiss Jr. in 1781. Newtown Historical Society purchased the property in 1971 and restored the house to its original condition.

Admission is free; however, a $2 suggested donation per person is welcomed and appreciated. Junior and senior docents will be available to answer questions about the house and its history, as well as provide guided tours by request.

The historical society is a non-profit, all volunteer organization. During the year it offers open houses with living history demonstrations, a lecture series, and a summer history camp for children, among other special events. All funding comes from private donations, membership dues, bequests and fundraisers such as an annual antiques show, house and garden tour, and publication sales.

New members are always welcome and volunteers are needed to help organize and run events.

To join or for more information, visit newtownhistory.org or call 203-426-5937.