Branford's Rich History, As Brought To Life Via Artifacts From Library

BRANFORD, CT — The Branford Historical Society has gratefully received a permanent donation of a collection of historic items from the James Blackstone Memorial Library and its Board of Trustees.

Since 1986, approximately 60 items have been on long-term loan from the Blackstone Library and are currently on display at the Harrison House Museum. For nearly a century, the Blackstone had been building a collection of historic, artistic, or sentimental items that were donated by Branford residents.

“Over time, the collection grew too large for the library to display,” Blackstone Board of Trustees, President Beth Law wrote in a letter to the Society’s Board.

The Branford Historical Society "enthusiastically agreed to care for and display them at the
Harrison House Museum," its publicity chair Robin Comey said.

A few items have provenance from the Blackstone Family itself, such as the highchair belonging to Betsey Jane Blackstone and a spinning wheel that was owned by Sarah (Beach) Blackstone, wife of James for whom the library is named. Local resident and weaver Bob Aiudi put it in working order, and it’s shown to Branford’s third-graders on their field trips to the Harrison House.

Branford Town Historian Jane Bouley shared one of her favorite items, a Revolutionary war
Canteen. The vessel was used by Branford soldier Samuel Baldwin, according to Bouley. On it, “he roughly carved into it SB Pray send me home.”

All of these items and many more are on display at the Harrison House Museum.

“For nearly 40 years, the Society has been a custodian of the collection, maintaining and displaying these artifacts and antiques. We thank the Blackstone Board of Trustees and are humbled to be charged with stewardship of this now permanent collection,” said Branford Historical Society president Matt Radulski. “The Branford Historical Society is committed to showcasing the stories of the people and places that shaped who we are today, and with these accessions, we can preserve them for generations to come.”

The Branford Historical Society, a non-profit, has as its mission of the Branford Historical Society is to discover and preserve the history of Branford, by the acquisition and preservation of artifacts, documents, and records of Branford provenance, and to actively promote Branford’s history to the community.

Become a member, get involved and visit the Harrison House Museum, Barn and Gardens at 124 Main St. from June through September on Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment.

Learn more about the Branford Historical Society by visiting the Harrison House Museum, Barn and Gardens, 124 Main St., or by calling (203) 488-4828 or via its website here.