Picture Tolland: The Gavel Turns 200

TOLLAND, CT — The latest installment of the Picture Tolland series takes us inside the Old Tolland County Courthouse on the Tolland Green.

There, it's a walk back in time to what it was like in the old days.

That translates to a couple of centuries.

Speaking of the history, the 200th anniversary of the Old Tolland County Court House falls on Oct. 22. That day, the public is invited to join the Tolland Historical Society in celebrating the bicentennial anniversary of the museum at 53 Tolland Green from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, with festivities and a chance to view depicting the Court House over its 200 years.

Society volunteer Perne Maynard has provided photos of the courthouse for the exhibit and has photographed many images and artifacts in the Historical Society's collection.

Cupcakes will be prepared by LuAnn’s Bakery. For a $1 donation, people can take photos of friends and relatives in the wooden pillory. No advance registration is required. Dressing in 1822-period costumes is optional.

At the event, the name of a ticket-holder will be drawn to win a handmade quilt by Tolland Historical Society volunteer Sandy Gallup. The quilt, following a pattern called Sister’s Choice, is 70 inches x 82 inches. Tickets are $2 each and can be obtained by sending a check for the number of tickets desired and a stamped self-addressed envelope to Cathy Wilcox, 535 Old Stafford Rd., Tolland, CT 06084. Checks should be made out to Tolland Historical Society and include the word "quilt" on the memo line.

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Picture Tolland is a periodic series featuring images of the town, past and present.