June is Jumping at the Simsbury Free Library!

The Simsbury Free Library celebrates the start of summer with a special event in honor of Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 8. The library invites everyone for FREE refreshments and genealogy charts as part of the annual statewide celebration of art, tourism and history. Dig up details about the abandoned Farmington Canal, the birth of our transportation system and more in the library’s incredible collection of historical materials. Gain a personal perspective of World War I by reading 44 letters sent home to Simsbury by a young soldier.

Later in the month, plan a super staycation by exploring Connecticut’s historic architecture when Christopher Wigren, author, architectural historian, and Deputy Director of the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, introduces us to 100 places in our state on June 27. The Simsbury Free Library also offers the popular monthly Drop In Genealogy and Drop In Book Club events.

June events include:

Saturday, June 8: Connecticut Open House Day (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
Enjoy FREE refreshments and receive a FREE genealogy charts as part of the annual statewide celebration of art, tourism and history. Learn about your genealogy, the old Farmington Canal, transportation history and more! Genealogist Alison Watson Maston will be on hand offering free assistance to research your family tree, whether you are new to genealogy or are having trouble finding your ancestors. Check out the William Phelps Eno Memorial Center housed at the Free Library. Due to Eno’s efforts, things such as speed limits, right-of-way rules at intersections and rotaries, pavement markings, one way streets and turn signals have been codified to law. The replica of Eno’s office features original furniture and artworks and serves as an archive for his historic papers. Don’t miss our collection of 44 letters sent home to Simsbury by George L. Hall between August 11, 1917 and October 21, 1918. The letters are a great look at the life of a 20-21 year old soldier during World War I. Many of the letters have had words cut from by the censors.

Tuesday, June 11: Drop In Book Club: Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery (11:15 a.m.) This dark but redemptive novel set in Paris is an international best seller. New members in search of great book discussions and even better company are always welcome at the SFL’s Drop In Book Club any time they are interested in the monthly selection. For more information, call 860-408-1336 or email programs@simsburyfreelibrary.org.

Saturday, June 22: Drop In Genealogy (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
Researching your family tree and don't know where else to look to find missing ancestors? Bring any information you have and let genealogist Alison Watson Maston help. Alison has over 40 years of experience. She specializes in researching vital records, land records, immigration and naturalization records as well as probate records. She has particular expertise in New England, New York City and Ireland. Free for members; $5 for non-members. To make a reservation or for more information, call (860) 408-1336 or email programs@simsburyfreelibrary.org.

Thursday, June 27: Connecticut Architecture: Stories of 100 Places (6:30 p.m.)
Christopher Wigren, author, architectural historian, and Deputy Director of the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, will discuss his well-received new book "Connecticut Architecture: Stories of 100 Places." Connecticut boasts some of the oldest and most distinctive architecture in New England, from Colonial churches and Modernist houses to refurbished nineteenth-century factories. In his guide to this rich and diverse architectural heritage, Wigren introduces readers to 100 places across the state. Written for travelers and residents alike, the book features buildings visible from the road. Free to members. $5 for non-members. Books are available for sale for $40 each. To reserve a seat, call 860-408-1336, or email programs@simsburyfreelibrary.org.

About Simsbury Free Library
The Simsbury Free Library (the Simsbury Genealogical and Historical Research Library), located at 749 Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury, promotes interest in genealogy and history by providing access to research material and expertise, artifacts, and educational and cultural programs, to help visitors develop the skills required to create family trees, search local histories, look up census records, explore vital records, etc.

The Simsbury Free Library – the Gracious Yellow Lady – is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. as well as by appointment. To RSVP or for more information, visit www.simsburyfreelibrary.org or call (860) 408-1336.