2 Upcoming Events Celebrate Madison's Bicentennial

MADISON, CT — A pair of upcoming events this month are part of Madison's ongoing celebration of the town's bicentennial.

At 4 p.m. on May 16, the Deacon John Grave Foundation will host Tavern Toasts at its house museum at 581 Boston Post Road.

"An all-ages event will begin at 4:00PM with singing, old-fashioned games, and other entertainment," wrote First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons in a recent community update.

She added, "During the festivities, a post rider, played by Madison resident Tom Hopkins, will arrive in town on his horse Patch. At about 5:45PM he will reach the Deacon John Grave House bearing wonderful news for the people of East Guilford: a message that the General Assembly has allowed the incorporation of a new town; the date for the incorporation is set for June 19.

"Curtis Wilcox, played by Henry Griggs, will read the message aloud then lead some cheers and a patriotic song or two. At 6:00PM, those over 21 will be invited indoors for a toast! The party will continue inside and out until 7:00PM."

The second event, called Escape Room, is scheduled for 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on May 19-21.

Attendees will be encouraged to utilize "your quick wits, friends and popular artifacts from the last 200 years to solve. Right before the big Madison 200 anniversary, you and your friends are sent back in time and need to use artifacts from Madison's 200 years to solve puzzles and get back to 2026!"

The event is geared toward groups of two to five people in grade 6 and up. Registration is required. Each day has its own sign-up page.