N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 Nutmeg State
News
1
C o nnect i cut D aug h te r s o f t h e A me r i can Re v o l ut i o n
V o l ume X I
www . ctda r . o r g
National Theme
The Spirit of Hospitality Opens Doors of Opportunity
State Regent’s Project 2007-2009
A Makeover for Matthies Hall, Windsor, CT
State Theme 2007-2010
Honoring Our Hometown Heroes with
an Essential Piece Community Service Award
“Linking Our Past. Building Our Future.”
N um b e r 4
S p r i ng 2 0 0 9
The
Regent’s Remarks
D ea r C o nnect i cut D aug h te r s ,
Jennie May Rehnberg
State Regent
“The little
unremembered acts
of kindness and love
are the best parts of a
person’s life.”
William Wordsworth
Happy New Year! I sincerely hope that all of you had a wonderful holiday with family
and friends. We were thrilled to have our beloved son, Chris, home on a short leave
from Iraq. On a personal note, please accept my sincere thanks to each of you for your
many cards, prayers and genuine interest in the welfare of our son.
History was made on January 20, 2009 with the presidential inauguration of our
44th president, Barack Obama. The DAR was honored to play a small role in this
historic celebration when our
organization was asked again to
lend our beautiful eagle lectern
for the inaugural speech.
Mark your calendar for the
116th State Conference, which
will be held at the Courtyard
by Marriott in Cromwell.
Plans have been finalized
with exceptional speakers,
workshops, and programs
all designed to spark new
enthusiasm. Participants
and guests will have an
incredible opportunity to visit
Wethersfield historic house
CTDAR 115th Fall State Meeting Special Guests
museums. You will thoroughly
Front row, left to right: Merry Ann T. Wright, First Vice President
General; Jennie Rehnberg, Connecticut State Regent. Back row
enjoy learning about these
left to right: Jean Kelsey, CT Honorary State Regent; Caroline
beautifully preserved
Taylor, CT Honorary State Regent, Julie Stuhlmacher, Wisconsin
State Regent; Anita Sheard, Nevada State Regent; Sharon Hopkins,
buildings as the docents bring
Michigan State Regent
local history to life. Special
guests will include Michelle Mott Juehring, Curator General; Anne Urbaczewski,
Massachusetts State Regent; Sharon Withers, Kentucky State Regent; Donna Elin,
Constitution Week National Chairman; and Libby McKee, Vice President General.
continued on page 2
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N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
Regent’s Remarks
continued from page 1
Official Call –
116th spring State CONFERENCE
April 17 - 19, 2009
Spring CONFERENCE Schedule
Friday, April 17th
10:30 am Registrar Workshop –
Nancy Pexa, State Registrar
11:00 am Sales/Exhibit Tables set-up
11:30 am Lunch on your own
12:00 pm Registration opens
12:30 pm Membership/Revitalizing Workshop – Libby McKee, VPG and Jean Robinson
2:15 pm Processional & Music Prelude
2:30 pm Conference Opening Session
Chapter Regents and State Chairmen to Report
5:00 pm Hospitality Suite opens
6:15 pm Receiving Line
7:00 pm Awards Banquet
8:00 pm History Awards
8:30 pm Entertainment:
Nicole Zuraitis Jazz Quartet
Saturday, April 18th
7:30 am Breakfast Buffet Speaker: Donna Elin DAR 101
8:00 am Registration opens
8:00 am Sales/Exhibit Tables
9:15 am Processional line up
9:30 am General Session
11:00 am Memorial Service
11:30 am Break (one hour)
12:30 pm Luncheon
1:15 pm Resume Afternoon Session
3:00 pm Program – Survive the Drive Light refreshments served
6:00 pm Dinner – Baci Grill 7:00 pm Program – They Called Me Lizzy
Sunday, April 19th
Breakfast on your own
9:30 am Board bus for Old
Wethersfield tours
12:00pm Brunch at J. Michaels Tavern
3:30 pm Board bus for return trip to hotel
It was truly an honor for me to represent Connecticut Daughters during the annual
Veterans’ Day Parade in Hartford, dedicated to women who served. Riding high on the
CTDAR antique sleigh, I was accompanied by members of the Abigail Phelps Chapter,
braving the frigid temperatures and carrying the flags of our Armed Forces during the
hour-long parade. We can all be extremely proud of two of our own military veterans,
Barbara Crede and Maris Iverson, who displayed such poise and grace wearing their
military uniforms. My sincere thanks are extended to Joyce Cahill, State Vice Regent,
for ensuring that CTDAR participated in this annual event.
Presiding over the Annual Massing of the Colors, this officer was particularly delighted
to welcome Vrege Murray, State Regent of Maine, and Anne Urbaczewski, State Regent
of Massachusetts, who joined us in honoring the hereditary organizations.
In conjunction with the 375th Windsor Anniversary, the Ellsworth Board conducted a
Quilt Show under the exceptional leadership of Candy Desmarais and her committee.
Everyone who attended conveyed their appreciation of the craftsmanship that went
into making and designing these beautiful quilts.
I offer heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation to the Connecticut Daughters who
served as an essential piece bringing Wreaths Across America to Connecticut. Chapters
throughout the state joined forces with the Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs
to “honor, remember and teach”.
Sincere thanks and appreciation are extended to Nancy Pexa, State Registrar, and her
committee for organizing a fabulous two day Field Genealogist Workshop in October.
The State Regent’s Project, A Makeover for Matthies Hall, will continue this year adding
energy-efficient lighting, a sound system, and a much needed handicap ramp and
bathroom. This officer is extremely grateful for your generous support last year raising
funds to replace the roof. Every donation goes directly toward the renovations of our
beautiful hall built by Katherine Matthies.
I want to thank the many chapters who have extended invitations for me to join them
for an array of events and activities. It is a pleasure to witness your enthusiasm to God,
Home and Country. Thank you for the warm Spirit of Hospitality!
The Executive Board looks forward to learning about the achievements and
accomplishments of our chapters during the 116th State Conference.
I am truly humbled to have been given the opportunity to serve you as your State
Regent.
In DAR friendship and love,
Jennie May Rehnberg
State Regent
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 3
CTDAR 116th Spring State Conference
The Official Call to Conference is included in this issue of the Nutmeg State News.
N i n e T r e a s u r es , O n e H i sto r i c W et h e r sf i e l d
Join us on Sunday, April 19 for two very special tours of Wethersfield. Both tours
will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the Wethersfield Visitor’s Center, located in the front
of the Keeney Memorial at 200 Main Street. After brief introductions, we will be
divided into two groups to tour several historic sites.
For a reservation form, contact State Regent, Jennie Rehnberg at (860) 354-5521
or regentctdar@aol.com. The cost is $10 per person. A bus from the Courtyard by
Marriott in Cromwell will leave at 9:30 a.m.
Tour A: See the exhibits at the Wethersfield Museum at Keeney Memorial
featuring “Legendary People, Ordinary Lives”, the permanent exhibition on the
history of Wethersfield featuring over 100 artifacts from the Society’s collections.
Hurlbut-Dunham House, Wethersfield, CT
Hurlbut-Dunham House: This elegant home is rich in early 20th century features
including original Rococo Revival wallpapers, painted ceilings and cornices, furnishings and
accessories of Howard and Jane Dunham, a prominent Wethersfield and Hartford area couple.
Historic Cove Warehouse: Overlooking the Wethersfield Cove, this warehouse exhibit is the last
reminder of Wethersfield’s colorful maritime past that explores Wethersfield’s role in the busy trade of
the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Also featured is the role of privateers, privately owned and
armed vessels, which engaged British supply ships to capture critical commodities for the American
cause during the Revolutionary War.
Tour B: Four Remarkable 18th Century Houses
The Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum, owned and managed by the National Society of the Colonial
Dames of America in the State of Connecticut, operates four remarkable 18th century houses, three of
which are National Historic Landmarks. The 1752 Joseph Webb House served as George Washington’s
headquarters in May 1781, and was later owned by Wallace Nutting. The Silas Deane House, circa
1770, was built for America’s Revolutionary War diplomat to France as both his residence and as a
power base for his political aspirations. The Isaac Stevens House, 1789, depicts the life of a middle
class family in the 1820s and 30s using many original family possessions. The newly opened second
floor features the Colonial Dames’ toy collection, a children’s bed chamber and interactive exhibits on
child life and play in the early 19th century.
Within easy walking distance is the Buttolph-Williams House. Owned by Connecticut Landmarks
and managed by the Museum, it captures the spirit of Puritan life in New England in the 17th
century. Built around 1715, the interiors are furnished with rare 17th and early 18th century antiques
assembled by renowned antiques collectors and dealers. The house was also the setting for Elizabeth
George Speare’s Newberry Award-winning novel, The Witch of Blackbird Pond (1958).
From 12:30 - 1:30 pm. we will enjoy a delicious brunch at the J. Michaels Tavern, 222 Main Street, in
the historic Standish House of Wethersfield, Connecticut. You’ll find old-fashioned Yankee hospitality
with colonial charm and comfort. Meals are individually priced.
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N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
CTDAR 116th Spring State Conference
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
continued from page 3
C o n fe r e n ce h i g h l i g h ts
f RIda y E v en i ng Ban q uet P r o g r am
Nicole Zuraitis along with her fellow musicians will surely delight and entertain all
of us. As a classical and Jazz vocal performer, Nicole is well respected as a musician
and as an artist. Nicole took the opportunity to attend the Florence Voice Seminar in
Italy, twice on scholarship (2005 and 2007), studying with Julian Rodescu and Benita
Valente. Nicole still studies with Mr. Rodescu today, and his motivational teaching
methods have become integral to her vocal growth. Nicole is currently putting together
an original collaboration of songs with great friend and songwriter, Alexandra Rulle.
S A tu r da y : S u r v i v e t h e D r i v e
Nicole Zuraitis
Bring your loved ones, young and old, to a special program presented by Survive
the Drive at the close of the 116th State Conference on Saturday, April 18th at 3:00
p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott. Survive the Drive provides a positive, active,
motivational presentation that explains the facts, conditions, situations, kinetics and
conscious control of driving safely…and the consequences of operator errors, however
unintentional or inadvertent.
The presentation uses descriptions, analogies, mnemonics and demonstrations and
PowerPoint graphics to illustrate what isn’t covered by the DMV Driver’s Test and what
isn’t commonly known by most licensed drivers.
satu r da y E v en i ng P r o g r am
They Called Me Lizzy…from Slavery to the White House
This is a moving tale of one woman’s life during the 19th Century, spanning more than
the entirety of the Victorian Era. Her name was Elizabeth Keckly. Born into slavery
in 1818, Lizzy eventually managed to purchase her freedom. She made her way to
Washington D.C., where her dressmaking skills and entrepreneurial savvy brought her
to the attention of many political families.
Once the Lincolns arrived in Washington, there was no turning back for Lizzy.
Mary Lincoln hired Madame Keckly, launching a relation unlike any Lizzy had ever
envisioned for herself. She was often there, in the room, with President and Mrs.
Abraham Lincoln during some of their most private and difficult moments.
While she is best known for her talents as Mary Todd Lincoln’s dressmaker and stylist,
the story before and beyond her connection to the White House is equally compelling.
Tammy Richardson
Performed in retrospect, this dramatic recounting of Lizzy’s experiences is much more
than a slave narrative, it is a human story, at times tragic, at times triumphant, always
fascinating. Come join us at the Baci Grill, 134 Berlin Road, Cromwell on Saturday,
April 18 at 7:00 p.m. to witness actress Tammy Richardson as she brings Elizabeth
Keckly to life.
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 Welcome, New Members!
Jean Robinson, Membership State Chairman
5
1 1 6 t h S tate C o n fe r e n ce
S p ec i a l G u ests
The CTDAR is proud to announce the following ladies have chosen to join
our organization! CONGRATULATIONS and WELCOME!
District I – Hill and Dale
District V – By The Sea
ABIGAIL PHELPS (1002 CT)
866304 Jessica Budde (Junior)
867779 Catherine Casper
867136 JoAnna Hamilton
864695 Pamela McDonald
866303 Sally Sinden
MARY CLAP WOOSTER (1033 CT)
865474 Abigail Armistead (Junior)
865401 Susanne Durno
864674 Carolyn Gould
865437 Martha Morrow
864280 Zohra Rawling (Junior)
864284 Susan Relihan
ABIGAIL WOLCOTT ELLSWORTH (1003 CT)
868253 Lynda Belanger
BROOKS-GREEN WOODS (1024 CT)
865513 Julie Brady (Junior)
865546 Stasia Motuzick
SALISBURY ARSENAL (1058 CT)
865029 Elisa MacKendree
Michelle Mott Juehring
Curator General
NSDAR
SARAH RIGGS HUMPHREYS (1048 CT)
865548 Rachel Hendrie (Junior)
865547 Rebekah Hendrie (Junior)
865173 Mary Thompson
SUSAN CARRINGTON CLARKE
(1055 CT)
864676 Elizabeth Hollman
864747 Edna Lange
Elizabeth Mary
(Libby) Moore McKee
Vice President
General
District II – Mountain Laurel
ORFORD PARISH-PITKIN (1032 CT)
864862 Lynda Jones
SARAH WHITMAN HOOKER (1050 CT)
864530 Margaret Bliss
District III – Lakes
KATHERINE GAYLORD (1028 CT)
864454 Nancy Dickens
865329 Joanne Jensen
MARY WOOSTER (1036 CT)
866051 Karen Pracella
866905 Ellen Seaman
ROGER SHERMAN (1044 CT)
864086 Cherise Hutchings (Junior)
District IV – Shore and Country
DRUM HILL (1010 CT)
866513 Diane LaSala
EUNICE DENNIE BURR (1016 CT)
868004 Allison Fay (Junior)
865621 Deborah Hogan
868002 Brooke Muratori
868005 Lena Paslov (Junior)
868001 Linda Paslov
868003 Jennifer Pompa (Junior)
868000 Lovina Ross
HANNAH BENEDICT CARTER (1025 CT)
865830 Sarah Goodman (Junior)
867751 Caroline White
NORWALK-VILLAGE GREEN (1039 CT)
867148 Emily Isaacs (Junior)
PUTNAM HILL (1043 CT)
865718 Laura Goldstein
865719 Rachel Goldstein (Junior)
867999 Judith Goss
864787 Evelyn Roberts
District VI – River
FAITH TRUMBULL (1018 CT)
867549 Amanda Curti (Junior)
866359 Cynthia Palazzo
GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
(1023 CT)
868060 Cheryl MacLachlan
Sharon Mayne Withers
State Regent
of Kentucky
LUCRETIA SHAW (1030 CT)
867379 Addison Delaney (Junior)
864341 Amy Fricke
867469 Cecelia Norwid
866579 Alyssa Smith (Junior)
Transfers into Connecticut in 2008
DRUM HILL (1010 CT)
778806 Sara Champion From NY
723511 Terrielle Fischer From PA
EUNICE COBB STOCKING (1015 CT)
775279 Carol Jozus From NY
Anne Lucas
Urbaczewski
Massachusetts
State Regent
EUNICE DENNIE BURR (1016 CT)
830886 Mary Clifton From TX
GOOD WIFE’S RIVER (1022 CT)
841229 Katherine Love From NY
HANNAH WOODRUFF (1026 CT)
821173 Roberta Bosco From FL
Reinstatements
JORDAN FREEMAN (1004 CT)
655958 Martha Fuller after 5 years inactive
MARY CLAP WOOSTER (1033 CT)
477677 Mary Bradshaw, after 29 years inactive
Donna Elin
National Chairman
of the Constitution
Week Committee
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N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
CTDAR Officer Updates
S tate Rec o r d i ng S ec r eta r y, S usan S m o k tun o w i c z
Reminder: Annual Reports for March 1, 2008 – February 28, 2009 from State Officers,
Chairmen of National and State Committees, Property Chairmen and Chapter Regents
are due no later than March 31, 2009. See www.ctdar.org/Members/ and select FORMS
from the left menu for detailed instructions. Email reports to State Recording Secretary,
Susan Smoktunowicz at RecSecCTDAR@snet.net.
Visit our
Members’ Web Site!
ctdar.org/members/index.html
S tate C o r r es p o nd i ng S ec r eta r y, L y nn M a r s h a l l
Chapter Officer changes? Additions or corrections to your board of directors? Send
them to me for the 2009-2010 Yearbook. Please check your listings in this year’s
printed yearbook to make sure that there are no typos! If you find an error or need to
make a change, email me at CTDAR@AOL.COM or call me at (860) 274-7472. Thank
you for your help!
S tate O r gan i z i ng S ec r eta r y, C a r o l Bau b y
D A R D a y at
h i l l s i de
sc h o o l b us
trip
On May 13, 2009
the CTDAR bus will
depart from the Manchester
commuter parking lot, located
off I-384 at Spencer Street (exit
1) at 7:00 a.m. A continental
breakfast will be provided
on the bus. Hillside School
Headmaster, David Z. Beecher,
invites you to join the children
for lunch. This is a wonderful
opportunity to learn about the
many achievements at Hillside
School. Please make your
reservations by May 1. Contact
Jennie Rehnberg, State Regent
at (860) 354-5521.
The cost is $30.
I am pleased to announce that on Oct 4, 2008, the National Board of Management
confirmed the merger of the Green Woods and Marana Norton Brooks Chapters. The
chapter name is now Brooks-Green Woods, located in Torrington. I applaud the efforts
of all members who helped bring this to fruition, especially Regent Luella Bartes. I was
honored to be asked to speak at their first meeting. CTDAR now has 44 chapters.
The duties of a state organizing secretary are to work to strengthen existing chapters,
discourage disbandment, and assist with mergers. I am here to help, so do not hesitate
to call upon me.
The Organizing Secretary General’s web site has been updated. Visit http://members.
dar.org/execs/orgsecg.cfm. The office is divided into two departments: Chapter Services
and Membership Services. It now includes step-by-step instructions for how to
organize a chapter, for merging chapters, and much more. This replaces the outdated
booklet Promoting, Conserving and Organizing Our Chapters, which is no longer
current or available in hard copy format.
S tate T r easu r e r , F r ances Int o
IRA Charitable Rollover Extended through 2009
If you are at least 70.5 years old, consider a distribution (up to $100,000) from
your IRA, directly to CTDAR for tax benefits. A charitable gift made directly from an
Individual Retirement Account (IRA) will not be taxed as income as long as:
• The gift is made in 2008 or 2009
• The IRA holder is age 70.5 or older
• The gift totals $100,000 or less
• The charity is eligible to receive tax deductible contributions (the CTDAR is)
• The withdrawal goes directly from the IRA to CTDAR.
Consult your tax advisor or attorney for further information.
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 7
I N r emem b r ance
July 2008 - December 2008
A complete listing of all CTDAR Members’
deaths will be included in the Memorial
Service at the Annual Spring Conference.
S tate Reg i st r a r , N anc y Pexa
State Registrar’s Workshop
All chapter registrars, assistant registrars and members are invited to the State
Registrar’s Workshop at the State Conference on Friday, April 17, 2009 from
10:30 -11:30 a.m. There will be a review of preparation of the application, a
discussion of the NSDAR members’ web site – genealogy research, how to link to a
previous application, sources, some important tips for preparing new member and
supplemental applications, plus time for questions/answers and audience participation
as we share our successes. Many of you attended the October 2008 Connecticut Field
Genealogist Workshop, but have some new questions or would like to review part of
the process. This workshop is for everyone.
Abigail Phelps Chapter
Marguerite Moseley
The link to the members’ web site, http://www.dar.org/library/Search.cfm, focuses
on how to order documentation for a specific DAR application. Many members are
confused as to how to order these pages. The web site details the process.
Faith Trumbull Chapter
Marilyn Cruthers
S tate L i b r a r i an , P h y l l i s P r o v o st M c N e i l
State Librarian’s Challenge for 2009
These past two years have been a delight serving as your State Librarian. We have
helped with computer upgrades to the State Library and launched a CTDAR Book
Club. I am very proud of the Book Club and the positive feedback from our chapters
and members. Our eclectic reading list covered George & Martha Washington’s
personal relationship (A Mount Vernon Love Story), Dolley Madison’s personal
struggle during the White House (Dolley), and our current selection educates us
on the generation of women who came after Rosie the Riveter in WWII (Rosie’s
Daughters). Our intention was not to focus on women in history, but to learn more
about historical periods of time and enjoy sharing what we learned.
We can use our enthusiasm for literature and extend it to students in our local towns.
These books and others like them would be wonderful additions to high school
libraries. It is unlikely that these school libraries contain such books that add color
and life to various historical periods. There are many excellent books on the past and
present best seller lists that teach about history and the struggle of our country.
We have a unique mission as members of the DAR to promote education, patriotism
and historic preservation. This is a year we can be proactive in our education mission.
I challenge each DAR chapter in Connecticut to actively pursue this mission by
donating at least one historical book of your choosing to your local high school
library. Perhaps we can help spark students’ interest in history by providing them the
opportunity to choose historical literature for reading enjoyment, as well as education.
This might be a positive boost to the future preservation of U.S. history and historical
places in our country.
Abigail Wolcott Ellsworth Chapter
Lillian Gudzunas
Anne Wood Elderkin Chapter
Esther Fabian
Drum Hill Chapter
Flora Yule
Eunice Dennie Burr Chapter
Virginia Southouse
Elizabeth Jacobs
Freelove Baldwin Stow
Thelma Edwards
Judea Chapter
Ethel Mildren
Mary Floyd Tallmadge Chapter
Barbara Gowen
Mary Silliman Chapter
Elma Reynolds
Nathan Hale Memorial Chapter
Jayne Girdwood
Norwalk-Village Green Chapter
Grace Ameden
Annie Albin
Penelope Terry Abbey Chapter
Marsha Ann Yerdon Stillwell
Putnam Hill Chapter
Florence Bonacorda
Roger Sherman Chapter
Arline Mosby
Josephine Roffy Enck
Charity Shattuck Ruland Reimer
Sarah Whitman Hooker Chapter
Beulah Jarvis
Sarah Williams Danielson Chapter
Patricia Renaud
Sibbil Dwight Kent Chapter
Edith Gibson
Stamford Chapter
Mary Stewart
Trumbull-Porter Chapter
Ruth Upson
Historic Preservation ~ Education
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N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
Committee Information
PAGES NEEDED
A me r i can He r i tage , Ida Rans o m , S tate C h a i r man
Younger members of the DAR
are needed to serve as Pages
for the State Meetings and
Conferences. This is wonderful
way to become involved in
DAR, make new friends and
provide a much needed service.
If you are a member of the
DAR under 40 years of age, you
are eligible to serve as a Page.
The registration fee and cost
of meals are complimentary
for those willing to Page at our
meetings. To learn more about
becoming a Page, contact the
State Regent, Jennie Rehnberg,
(860) 354-5521 or regentctdar@
aol.com or the Connecticut
Chairman of Pages, Catherine
Bue at Catherine.A.Bue@
Dartmouth.EDU
After March 1, it is too late for you to enter this year’s American Heritage Contests in the
Fiber Arts and Cultural Events and Tradition categories. However, you still have time
to enter in the other categories – Art and Sculpture, Crafts, Literature and Drama, and
Music. These entries are due by April 1, 2009 to the respective National Vice Chairman
as listed on the members’ web site.
Please make sure you submit the completed Contest Entry Form with your entry. This
form and other American Heritage contest details are on the web at http://members.dar.
org/committees/amerher/crafts.htm.
D A R S e r v i ce f o r Vete r ans ,
Ba r b a r a C r ede , S tate C h a i r man
The DAR Stained Glass Window has been installed
in the Levitow Health Care Facility Chapel at
Rocky Hill. It was beautifully created by Elizabeth
Gardner of SGO Designer Glass in Simsbury,
CT. Elizabeth is a member of the Abigail Phelps
Chapter. All members will be proud to know that
the window will give comfort to the veterans and
their families for years to come. Thank you to
all the chapters and members for your generous
donations to this project. According to the CTVA
there will be a dedication ceremony for the
windows once all are installed.
W R E A T H S A C RO S S A M E RI C A
Spring Grove Veterans Cemetery, Darien
Medal of Honor’s gravestone
Good Wife’s River Chapter
Thank you to all the chapters and individuals who
organized and participated in Wreaths Across America ceremonies around the state on
December 13, 2008. The following Chapters held ceremonies at their local cemeteries
and monuments: Faith Trumbull, Freelove Baldwin Stow, Good Wife’s River, Judea,
Norwalk-Village Green, Orford Parish-Pitkin, Penelope Terry Abbey, Putnam Hill,
Sarah Whitman Hooker, Roger Sherman, Ruth Wyllys, Trumbull-Porter, Wadsworth,
Willard-Welles-Stanley, and the Jonathan Trumbull Homestead. Additional thanks go
to individuals from other chapters who showed up in the bitter cold to support one of
the ceremonies that took place around the state, including Abigail Phelps, Mary Clap
Wooster, Stamford, Susan Carrington Clarke, and any others that we may have missed.
On behalf of CTDAR, many chapters were able to partner with numerous Veteran and
local organizations to pay tribute to those who have served our country.
~ Patriotism
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 9
T h e S p i r i t o f H o s p i ta l i t y O p ens t h e D o o r s o f O p p o r tun i t y
CTDAR opens the doors of opportunity through your generous contributions in support of the operations of the
Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution. Your donation reaches out to women who share
your love of country, and furthers the objectives of historic preservation, education and patriotism.
You are an Essential Piece of Linking our Past, Building our Future.
Donations to the Annual Appeal should be sent to:
Fran Into, Annual Appeal Treasurer, 16 Highland Green, Cromwell, CT 06416.
Credit cards (Master Card or Visa) are accepted, or checks should be made payable to CTDAR, Inc.
Constitution
Pfizer Foundation
Metta Delmore
Jennie Rehnberg
Patriot
Aetna Foundation, Inc.
Ruth Blodgett
Ella Williams
Independence
Martha Anderson
Luella Bartes
Marian Brusberg
Joyce Cahill
Gertrude Chandler
Joyce Cropsey
Karen Elmasry
Barbara Francis
Virginia James
Alida Jewett
Carolyn Krenz
Margaret Leonard
Maria Nied
Nancy Pexa
Lucy Stuyniski
Susan Vincent
Lois Warner
Liberty
Charlotte Armstrong
Elizabeth Booth
Louise Brundage
Sally Stone Clemence
Kimberly Coleman
Martha Cotiaux
Dale Delfino
Elaine Deysenroth
Nancy Elderbaum
Mary Fox
Babs Gardner
Mary Giffin
Sue Gress
Polly Gunther
Rodean Gyokeri
Sylvia Hawes
Joan Ingersoll
Fran Into
Jean Kelsey
Beverly Manning
Mary Elizabeth Mannweiler
Jean Manter
Susan McClen
Susan Mirabito
Dawn Murphy
Karen Polett
Janet Purinton
Genevieve Robb
Virginia Sundius
Caroline Taylor
Harriette Thorne
Roberta White
Ann Wuielfing
Janice Zwicker
Donors
Virginia Alvord
Joan Anderson
Ruth Baron
Kristin Binder
Sheila Bonenberger
Marian Briggs
Marian Bronson
Lucinda Buttrick
Charlotte Chapman
Ellie Corazzini
Letitia Cossette
Barbara Crede
Joan Crossman
Lucinda Cutler
Kelly Davis
Marilyn Davis
Priscilla Deacon
Candy Desmarais
Janet Dickinson
Susanne Doolittle
Sylvia Dunn
Alice Edman
Marion Emmons
Justine Goebel
Abby Griffin
Barbara Hambach
Barbara Hoffman
Natalia Holland
Doris Johnson
Lois Johnson
Jean Kocsis
Mary Beth Lee
Marguerite Lyons
Elinor Maloy
Donors (cont.)
Maxine Mangiafico
Sandra Marschat
Shirley Martin
Doris McCleary
Virginia McGuire
Cecelia Messier
Dorothy Miller
Frances Miller
Joanne Moyler
Lydia Petersen
Marilyn Petrinin
Lynne Poulos
Ruth Purdy
June Roncarti
Melba Rose
Antoninette Russell
Jeannette Schermerhorn
Helen Shupik
Nancy Skilton
Barbara Smith
Geraldine Strong
Diana Szatkowski
Paula Timmerman
Lucille Towle
Jean Van Sickles
Marianne Vandenbout
Sally Vaun
Barbara Voskowsky
Dorothy Watkins
Faith Ann Weider
Diane Wells
Shirley Wilson
Linda Yorton
Historic Preservation ~ Education
10
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
Committee Information
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
continued from page 9
N o m i nat i ng C o mm i ttee , A l i ce R i dgwa y, S tate C h a i r man
M eet i ngs / C o n f e r ence
Credentials
Lynn Marshall, State Chairman
ATTENTION CHAPTER
REGENTS: The Spring Conference
Credentials forms have been
mailed. If you did not receive one,
please email me at CTDAR@aol.
com or call (860) 274-7472 and I
will send you another one!
RESOLUTIONS
Joyce Cropsey, State Chairman
Resolutions and/or suggestions
should be submitted to Resolutions
Chairman, Joyce Cropsey (860)
567-9633. These need to be sent
in by March 30, 2009 in order
to be considered for action at the
Spring Conference.
The following candidates for State Councilor are being proposed by the 2008-2009
nominating committee: Alice E. Ridgway, chair (Mary Floyd Tallmadge Chapter),
Kimberly Borden (Good Wife’s River Chapter), Jolene Mullen (Judea Chapter) and
Betty Oderwald (Eunice Dennie Burr Chapter).
Proposed Councilors for the class of 2009-2012:
Alice Ayers – Drum Hill Chapter – Regent until May 2009
Katherine (Katie) Sumner Bacon – Putnam Hill Chapter – Regent until 2010
Karen Elmasry – Hannah Benedict Carter Chapter – Treasurer until 2010
Mary E. Johnson – Susan Carrington Clarke Chapter – Regent until 2010
Mary Anne Magnuson – Willard-Wells Stanley Chapter – Registrar until 2010
Stephanie Pruitt – Jordan Freeman Chapter – Vice-Regent until 2011
T r ans p o r tat i o n and S a f et y, M a r y J o h ns o n
It’s not too early to be thinking about Continental Congress next July in Washington
D.C. (July 7 - July 12, 2009). Plan now to join DAR members of New England on
this all-encompassing bus trip. You will enjoy deluxe accommodations at the Capital
Hilton, only blocks away from the White House and our own NSDAR buildings.
Transportation will be provided by Ritchie Bus Lines. The Capital Hilton offers
Tower Rooms, which includes breakfast buffet, afternoon buffet and late night milk
& cookies. Join the fun! Send your $100 deposit to reserve your room as soon as
possible. Full payment is due by May 15, 2009.
COST PER PERSON: (tentative, depending on gas prices)
REGULAR: SINGLE $1735 DOUBLE $1015 TRIPLE $825 QUAD $730
TOWER: SINGLE $1905 DOUBLE $1105 TRIPLE $885 QUAD $775
Send your check (made out to CTDAR, Inc) to: Mary Beth Johnson, PO Box 286,
Middlefield CT 06455. For more information, contact Mary at (860) 349-2279 or
mejohnson16@comcast.net
D A R G o o d C i t i z ens , Ba r b a r a U l r i c h , S tate C h a i r man
Congratulations to Nancy Weidner, Connecticut’s 2008-2009 DAR Good Citizens
Award Winner! Nancy is a senior at Simsbury High School and her application was
submitted by the Abigail Phelps Chapter. Nancy has served as Class President for three
years and as a student representative to the Board of Education. Next fall she plans to
attend Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. Thanks to all chapters who participated in
this contest.
Nancy Weidner, Connecticut’s 2008-2009
DAR Good Citizens Award Winner
~ Patriotism
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 11
S tate Regent ’ s P r o ject: a M a k eO v e r F o r M att h i es Ha l l
D o n o r L i st ( 3 / 0 8 - 1 / 0 9 )
My sincere thanks to our members who have contributed to the State
Regent’s Project. Your donations will ensure that Matthies Hall continues
to serve as an Essential Piece to Connecticut Daughters.
Jennie Rehnberg, State Regent
Old Glory
Jennie Rehnberg
Carlson Family Foundation
Freedom
Jean Hemstreet
Constitution
Phyllis Provost McNeil
Patriot
Aetna Foundation, Inc.
Pfizer Foundation
Abigail Phelps Chapter
Sarah Whitman Hooker Chapter
Independence
Joyce Cahill
Gertrude Chandler
Metta Delmore
Gladys Haynes
Marcelyn Karagosian
Ruth Olsen
Caroline Taylor
Harriett Thorne
Lois Warner
Abigail Wolcott Ellsworth Chapter
Eunice Dennie Burr Chapter
Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter
Hannah Benedict Carter Chapter
Lady Fenwick Chapter
Mary Floyd Tallmadge Chapter
Mary Wooster Chapter
Left to right: Jennie Rehnberg, Jean Hemstreet
and Caroline Taylor
Independence (cont.)
Penelope Terry Abbey Chapter
Roger Sherman Chapter
Stamford Chapter
Trumbull-Porter Chapter
Willard-Welles Stanley Chapter
Liberty
Jean Bartlett
Carol Bauby
Kimberly Borden
Barbara Crede
Claudette Johnson
Susan McClen
Nancy Merwin
Anna Warner Bailey Chapter
Anna Wood Elderkin Chapter
Eunice Cobb Stocking Chapter
Mary Silliman Chapter
Norwalk Village Green Chapter
Putnam Hill Chapter
Roger Sherman Chapter
Sarah Riggs Humphreys Chapter
Charles Merriman Society, C.A.R.
Donors
Carla Bue
Ginger Carter
Mary Jane Fast
LuJan Fenton
Catherine Fisher
Katherine Francis
Janet Gillis
Donors (cont.)
Phyllis Graf
Claudine Harding
Fran Into
Mary Johnson
Dee Jones
Jean Kelsey
Lynn Marshall
Judy Messer
Susan Mouchantat
Jolene Mullen
Vrege Murray
Anne Penrose
Janet Purinton
Ida Ransom
Celia Roberts
Mary Roberts
Barbara Rosseland
Joan Scungio
Florence Selleck
Caroline Taylor
Janice Zwicker
Abigail Wolcott Ellsworth Chapter
Captain Noah Grant Chapter
Faith Trumbull Chapter
Governor Jonathan Trumbull Chapter
Hannah Woodruff Chapter
Judea Chapter
Mary Floyd Tallmadge Chapter
Phoebe Humphrey Chapter
Salisbury Arsenal Chapter
Sarah Williams Danielson Chapter
Willard-Welles-Stanley Chapter
12
C T D A R G OL D E N G IRL S
Calling all former Pages to join in the
fun of reliving the year(s) you were a
Page. Are you a Golden Girl? Come
Friday afternoon to the business
session and offer your expertise.
Anyone interested in forming a State
Page Club is encouraged to contact
the State Regent, Jennie Rehnberg.
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
CTDAR Events
C o nnect i cut H i st o r i ca l S o c i et y
Return to Ford’s Theatre: Authenticating the Lincoln Assassination Flag
Dr. Susan Schoelwer
Tuesday, April 14, 2009 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
On July 5, 2001 the Connecticut Historical Society held a press conference to
announce the discovery of an important flag in its collection – one of five flags used
to decorate the Presidential box at Ford’s Theatre on the night of Abraham Lincoln’s
assassination. On April 14, the anniversary of Lincoln’s assassination, CHS’s Director of
Collections Development, Dr. Susan P. Schoelwer will trace the history sleuthing that
led to the rediscovery and authentication of this flag, its painstaking conservation, and
its international celebrity culminating with a feature article on the front page of the
New York Times and an appearance on the Today show!
$3 members, seniors and students; $6 adults
Reservations recommended: (860) 236-5621, ext. 238
S u p p o r t o u r H i st o r i c P r o p e r t i es
S PRI N G FLI N G
Mark your calendar to attend the
Annual Spring Fling on
May 5, 2009 at the Aqua Turf Club
on Mulberry Street in Plantsville
(Southington), CT. Bring friends and
family to this fun event that provides
funding for the Nutmeg State
News. Opportunities for beautifully
decorated baskets will be available
during this luncheon.
11:30 a.m. Social Hour
12:30 p.m. Luncheon
1:00 p.m. Program
1:30 p.m. Basket Auction
Luncheon Tickets are $35.00. For
more information, contact Mary Anne
Magnuson at maryam144@hotmail.
com or (860) 667-2879.
The Travelers Championship Golf Tournament takes place
June 22 – 28, 2009 (formerly the GHO & CT’s only professional sporting
event) and donates 100% of their profits to charity. The public pledges in the name of
their favorite charity (CTDAR) 1¢, 2¢, 3¢ or more for each birdie (a birdie is a score
that is under par on a golf hole) that all of the professional golfers make during the
duration of the tournament. One-time donations can also be made. All money pledged
on behalf of CTDAR will be donated to CTDAR and divided up among our four
properties. Charities that receive the most in pledges will also get bonus money from
the Travelers.
DAR members who collect the most pledges will receive gas cards. Any one-time
donations should make their checks payable to: “Travelers Championship”
(a 501(c) 3 charity). Pledges will be billed in July from the accounting firm: Haggett
Longobardi; A Division of J.H. Cohn LLP on behalf of the Travelers Championship.
Pledge cards will be available at our Spring Conference, or may be found online at:
www.travelerschampionship.com. Click on “Fundraisers” at the bottom of the page.
This is a great way for you, your family and friends to support our Historic Properties:
Ellsworth Homestead, Matthies Hall, Jonathan Trumbull House and Wadsworth Stable.
Have fun guessing how many birdies will be made during the Travelers Championship
Golf Tournament. You do not need to watch the tournament to find out the score –
they will bill you in July for your pledge. So we know which DAR members collect
the most pledges from their friends and family, cards should be mailed to Fran Into,
CTDAR Treasurer, 16 Highland Green, Cromwell, CT 06416.
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 13
D E B U T A N T E PR E S E N T A T IO N
Very special plans are underway for a Debutante Presentation
at the Fall State Meeting, Friday evening, October 16, 2009
at the Marriott in Rocky Hill, CT. Metta Delmore of the Roger
Sherman Chapter, has offered to assist in the planning this event.
A Debutante Presentation is traditionally a means of presenting a
young lady of 16-21 years of age to society. Each girl is formally
presented with her partner to the audience. Once the girls have
been presented, the group will join in the Grande March or a
couple of formal dances. The dance will be followed by a dinner
and a special event. If you are interested in helping Metta, and/or in having a daughter,
niece, granddaughter, or dear friend presented at the CTDAR Debutante Presentation,
please contact Metta at mettadel@hotmail.com or (860) 868-1819.
C at h ed r a l o f t h e P i nes & Yan k ee C and l e T o u r
Our Debutantes for 2006
From left to right: Sarah Ruh, Kelly Romans,
Christine Martin, Honorary President
General Presley Merritt Wagoner, Honorary
CTDAR State Regent Caroline Taylor,
Kathleen Karnes, Winter Desmarais and
Charlotte Beckwith
The 62nd Cathedral of the Pines Service takes place on August 7 – 8, 2009. Cathedral
of the Pines is an ecumenical place of worship and natural sanctuary. The Altar
of the Nation within the Cathedral was unanimously recognized by the United
States Congress and dedicated as a memorial for all American war dead. Overnight
accommodations for Friday, August 7 are available at the Best Western in Keene, NH
by calling (800) 533-6364.
Arrangements have been made for a one-day bus trip for members and guests who
wish to attend the service on August 8. The bus will pickup passengers on the grounds
of Ellsworth/Matthies Hall, 778 Palisado Ave.,Windsor at 8:30 a.m. A light continental
breakfast will be available before departure. After the 11 a.m. service, members and guests
will enjoy a deli lunch at the VFW Post. On the return trip home, the bus will make a
stop at the Yankee Candle Flagship Store in South Deerfield, MA. The total cost is $45,
including lunch and transportation. The reservation deadline is July 25. Contact State
Regent, Jennie Rehnberg for reservations at (860) 354-5521 or regentctdar@aol.com.
Ice C r eam S o c i a l
Start making plans now to join the fun at the Annual Ice Cream Social and Arts & Craft
Sale at the Ellsworth Homestead on July 25, 2009. This is our biggest event to benefit
the Ellsworth Memorial Association. Chapters may rent space for their tag sale items or
their arts and crafts. The cost for chapters is only $15 per 10' x 10' space with a table
provided. Those chapters that have participated in the past have made several hundred
dollars on this day and have lots of fun doing it!
Also, if you have friends or relatives who are professional artists or craftsmen, please make
them aware of our event. Rental space for non-DAR members is $25 per space (no table).
Last year was our first year to include artists and craftsmen and it was a huge success! We
hope to add and improve on it each year. Please have them contact Joyce Cahill at joyce.
cahill@comcast.net. More information will be provided at the Spring State Conference.
Jennie Rehnberg
(left) and Ginger
Carter (right) lend
a helping hand at the
2008 Ice Cream Social
14
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
CTDAR News
E nc l o sed S l e i g h A r r i v es at W adsw o r t h S ta b l e
On a cold and blustery night in November, this gorgeous c.1740 Enclosed Sleigh,
fully restored to its original beauty, arrived on a flat bed trailer pulled by our State
Regent, Jennie Rehnberg and her brother, Bruce Morsey. Assisting in this special
delivery were nephew Devon Morsey, John Sniffen and his sons, Matthew and Mark,
along with one of Bruce’s employees.
Many thanks and much appreciation to the Ellsworth Homestead for relinquishing
this treasure, and to our State Regent for this new arrival.
State Regent Jennie Rehnberg rode atop the sleigh in
the 2008 CT Veterans’ Day Parade in Hartford
C T D A R B y l aws U p date
Chapter delegates who attend the State Conference will have the opportunity to vote
on several proposed changes to the CTDAR Bylaws. The main change is to create
the office of State Curator. There are also several changes dealing with the Governor
Jonathan Trumbull House and Wadsworth Stable. A copy of all the proposed changes
will be sent to each Chapter Regent well in advance of the meeting, as stipulated
in the Bylaws. The changes are being proposed by the Bylaws committee. Members
include: Barbara Ulrich, Hon. State Regent; Jean Kelsey, Hon. State Regent; Marolyn
Paulis, Hon. State Regent; Caroline Taylor, Hon. State Regent and Chairman Long Term
Planning, Gov. Jonathan Trumbull House; Phyllis Provost McNeil, State Librarian; Joyce
Cahill, State Vice Regent; Jennie Rehnberg, State Regent; and Karen Elmasry, Chairman.
D A R / S A R L i a i s o n C o mm i ttee
The President of the Connecticut Society, Sons of the American Revolution (CSSAR)
has appointed Chris Nichols as the DAR Liaison State Chairman. As chairman, he
will work closely with CTDAR’s SAR Liaison and/or State Regent to accomplish this
harmony. He will seek ways for the two organizations to work together (i.e. grave
markings, historic celebrations, genealogy workshops, dinners, etc.). Currently, the
focus is on increasing SAR membership by signing up the male relatives of dar
members. This is accomplished with the DAR Finder form, which will be distributed
to all chapters. It can also be found on the SAR web site, www.sar.org, under the “For
Members” drop down menu. Go to “National Committees with Web Sites”, then “DAR
Liaison Committee”.
Chris Nichols, DAR Liaison State Chairman for CSSAR
Chris contacted our State Regent and now CTDAR has a new state committee – the
SAR/DAR Liaison Committee. Jennie has appointed Carol Bauby as chairman. We felt it
was important for us to mirror the SAR program to better foster a relationship between
the two organizations in Connecticut, and to work together for the betterment of both
organizations.
Chris will speak about this new committee at the Friday dinner during our Spring
Conference, and forms and letters will be distributed in chapter mail boxes and by
email. He can be reached at ctdarliaison@gmail.com or cell phone (203) 889-1447.
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 E l l sw o r t h Qu i l t S h o w
15
S a r a h W i l l i ams D an i e l s o n c h a p te r
The Ellsworth Memorial Association held the Ellsworth Quilt
Show Saturday, September 13 and Sunday, September 14,
2008 in Matthies Hall on the grounds of the Oliver Ellsworth
Homestead in Windsor, CT as part of the town of Windsor’s
375th anniversary celebration. The Ellsworth Quilt Show
included over 60 antique and contemporary quilts, quilting
related vendors, lectures by noted quilt experts, opportunities
to have antique quilts evaluated, and more. The Abigail Phelps
Chapter sold food and beverages throughout the show.
Local quilt experts gave free lectures each day. Kris Driessen, the
“Quilt Bus Lady”, quilt historian and teacher, gave Saturday’s
lecture on dating quilts made from 1800 until World War II. Sue
Reich, a local quilt historian and teacher, gave Sunday’s lecture on
The History of Quilts in Connecticut with an emphasis on DAR
Quilts. For $5 per quilt, attendees were invited to bring their
antique quilts to be evaluated by these experts.
Viewer’s Choice ribbons were awarded to the following
individuals:
• Best Piecing – Pat Blair of East Hartford, CT
• Best Quilting – Edwin W. Strickland II of New Britain, CT
• Best Applique/Embroidery – Pauline M. Shaw of Simsbury, CT
• Best DAR Made Quilt – Geraldine Strong of Vernon, CT
• Best in Show – Edwin W. Strickland II of New Britain, CT
Over $3,000.00 was raised by the event which benefits the
Ellsworth Memorial Association.
Members of the Sarah Williams Danielson Chapter, Mary Brown
(left) and Chapter Regent Mary Ellen Tomeo (right) flank Dr.
Lavius Robinson attired in his authentic Pilgrim garb. Dr. Robinson
spoke at the Chapter’s Good Citizens Program in November on
“Why the Pilgrims Left England”.
D A R Rea l D aug h te r s
Help is needed to promote the Real Daughters project and
encourage chapters and/or members to consider marking the
graves of those Real Daughters that do not already have DAR
markers.
Did you know there are 106 Real Daughters in Connecticut? Of
those Real Daughters, only 24 have DAR grave markers. Shirley
Wagers and her assistant Kati Grulke are working diligently
gathering vital information not previously published in Chapter
Sketches: Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution;
Patriots’ Daughters edited by Mary Philotheta Root, c. 1904.
Photographs of the tombstones are needed because most
of them are over 100 years old, and many are in a state of
deterioration due to weather, pollution, and vandalism. The
tombstone photographs are vital for the Historian General’s
Office and will be placed in the Real Daughters file.
Chapters/members are strongly encouraged to make copies of
their information, including photographs for the CTDAR Library.
This information will be placed in an archival file for future use.
Those chapters wishing to mark or rededicate graves of Real
Daughters should contact the Historian General’s Office for
information.
Left to right: Natalie Weise and Patricia Rockwell
16
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
Chapter Happenings
C a p ta i n N o a h G r ant C h a p te r ce l e b r ates G e o r g i anna’ s 1 0 0 t h !
M a r y C l a p W o o ste r C h a p te r
With the persistence of Vice Regent Jean Van Sickles,
the Mary Clap Wooster original charter was located
at the New Haven Museum and Historical Society.
Bill Hosley (right) of the NHM & Historical Society
displayed the charter at our October meeting, joined
by Jean Van Sickles (center) and Regent Joyce
Saraceni (left).
Left to right: Nancy Strong, Geraldine Strong, Doris Farr, Georgianna Prescott (seated), Shirley Knofla, April Staley
Georgianna joined DAR on April 17, 1937. That makes her a 71 year member! She
joined as a junior and has fond memories of paging at Continental Congress. She was
a member of the former Sabra Trumbull Chapter as was her mother and grandmother.
Sabra Trumbull Chapter disbanded in the 1950s with Georgianna taking her
membership to Orford Parish. When Captain Noah Grant began in 1975, Georgianna
became an organizing member and has served as our chaplain and corresponding
secretary for many years. We are proud to have her as a member of our chapter!
N atu r a l i z at i o n
R o ge r S h e r man C h a p te r
C e r em o n y i n Fa i r f i e l d
During the holidays, State Regent
Jennie Rehnberg visited with Ethel
Readyoff, member of the Roger Sherman
Chapter, to give her a puzzle piece. This
symbolized her many years as an essential
piece of CTDAR.
Luc r et i a S h aw C h a p te r
M em o r i a l G r a v e D ed i cat i o n
In 2007, the Executive Director of the International
Institute of Connecticut spoke to the Eunice Dennie
Burr Chapter about immigration. Pamela Huth
(above) attended the Naturalization Ceremony
on September 25, 2008 at the Quick Center at
Fairfield University. DAR was permitted to have
a small display.
At Ye Antientist Burial Ground in New
London, the chapter places American Flags
on all of the 35 Revolutionary War Patriots
who are buried there on Memorial Day and
Veterans’ Day. On October 11, 2008, the
chapter dedicated a plaque in memory of
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., and his wife, Lucretia
for their contributions toward American
Independence.
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9 17
Putnam C o ttage ,
f o r me r l y Kna p p ’ s T a v e r n
This bright red house on the Boston Post Road has had
a long and colorful history. It was originally built in the
early 17th century in what was then known as “Horse
Neck” and has grown over the years into its current
size and shape. During this time, a number of elements
have both been added and removed from the structure.
The result is the current building that reflects the
changing attitudes of the various owners who have
lived and worked there, rather than just those of the
original owners and builders. It is not a static object
from the late 1600s, but a dynamic building that
reflects the whole period of its existence.
Situated just east of “Put’s Hill” in Greenwich, Connecticut, the house has long
been associated with General Israel Putnam and his heroic escape from the British
during the Revolutionary War. By the middle of the 19th century, the link was firmly
established in the community. The house was opened to the public on the centennial
of Putnam’s ride and filled with relics from the colonial era. The DAR formalized this
tradition when it opened it as a museum in 1906, and later a tea house under the name
Putnam Cottage. Generations of visitors have come to know the building by this name.
In actuality, the name is misleading.
Putnam’s association with the building highlights just a brief moment in its history and
the term cottage would not have been used to describe such a substantial building in
the 18th century.
The original house is thought to have been built by the family of Timothy Knapp in
the first quarter of the 1700s. He and his wife, Martha Weeks, shared it with their son
Isaac Knapp, Sr. and his family, including his first two children. Later in the century
it was used as a tavern and the meeting place for the local Freemasons. It is intimately
connected to the Revolutionary War, having housed General Putnam and hosted
General Washington for lunch. Yes, George Washington ate there and a framed copy of
the receipt is hanging inside!
Soon after the DAR chapter was organized, the Regent and some citizens of Greenwich
purchased Putnam Cottage. Several years later an agreement was reached between
the Israel Putnam House Association, Inc. (who holds the deed to the property as a
nonprofit private museum) and the Putnam Hill Chapter DAR. The PHCDAR has the
use and benefit of the property for as long as they exist and thereafter for the citizens of
Greenwich.
Today, the cottage is used for an annual historic reenactment of a Revolutionary War
battle and Putnam’s Ride, in addition to Chapter meetings, social gatherings and an
annual Candlelight Open House in December. Putnam Cottage is open to the public on
Sundays from spring to fall with tours given by member docents.
Chelsea Bacon, CT C.A.R. President; Mary Bush
C.A.R. President; Janet Rossman, Vice Regent
Putnam Hill; Christine Varner, Docent Putnam
Hill DAR; Kathleen Saxon, Putnam Hill Recording
Secretary; and Victoria Slater, Mary Bush C.A.R.
Librarian
18
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
Chapter Happenings
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
continued from page 17
H o n o r i ng Ou r H o met o wn He r o es
Carol Bauby, Regent of the Trumbull-Porter Chapter, (center) presents
CTDAR Essential Piece Awards to Helen Totz and Mae Flynn, members
of Project Hometown Support on November 13, 2008
The Trumbull-Porter Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution
of the Greater Watertown-Waterbury area, invited the members of
Project Hometown Support to their November 13th meeting, held at
the Thomaston Savings Bank Community Room in Waterbury. Two
members of this group spoke about its founding and what they have
accomplished. This award, created by CTDAR State Regent Jennie
Rehnberg, is given to “honor those in the community who exemplify
extraordinary courage, strength of character, admirable qualities or
achievements, for the betterment of the community”. In the photo,
Carol Bauby, center, Regent of the Trumbull-Porter Chapter presents
the awards and a $100.00 check from the chapter to Mae Flynn, right,
and Helen Totz, left. Chapter members also made personal donations
to buy goods to be sent to the troops.
CTDAR Calendar of 2009
2009
JULY
APRIL
4Black Powder Reenactor’s Tag Sale
at Gov. Jonathan Trumbull House
17-19116th Annual State Conference
The Courtyard by Marriott, Cromwell
MAY
5Spring Fling, Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville
13Hillside DAR Day, Hillside School, Marlborough, MA Note new date
20SORC – Manchester Country Club
23Memorial Day Parade at Gov. Jonathan Trumbull House
JUNE
6EMA Board Meeting, Abigail’s Kitchen
9:30 am
Note new day Saturday
6EMA Annual Meeting, Matthies Hall
11:00 am
13Second Saturday at Gov. Jonathan Trumbull House
20State Council Meeting, Abigail’s Kitchen, 9:15 am
Note new day Saturday
20State Board of Management Meeting, Matthies Hall 11:00 am
7-12118th NSDAR Continental Congress, Washington, DC
11Second Saturday at Gov. Jonathan Trumbull House
25Ice Cream Social, Ellsworth Homestead 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
AUGUST
7-8Cathedral of the Pines, Rindge, NH 11:00 am
8Second Saturday at Gov. Jonathan Trumbull House
SEPTEMBER 9State Council Meeting, Abigail’s Kitchen 9:15 am
9State Board of Management Meeting, Matthies Hall 11:00 am
12Second Saturday at Gov. Jonathan Trumbull House
12Ham & Bean Supper, Matthies Hall 4:30 - 7:00 pm
OCTOBER
3NSDAR National Board Meeting, Washington, DC
3-11NSDAR National Tour - Northeast Revolutionary War Sites
16-18
116th Fall State Meeting, Rocky Hill Marriott
N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
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OFFICIAL CALL – 116th State Conference
Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution
April 17 – 19, 2009
State Conference Theme:
“Preserving History and Traditions”
Courtyard by Marriott
4 Sebethe Drive, Cromwell, CT 06416
Hotel Reservations: 1-800-627-7468
Group Code: Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution
Room Rate $89.00 + taxes single/double – parking is complimentary
Hotel & Tour Reservation Deadline: Monday, March 30, 2009
Conference Chairman: Joyce Cahill, Connecticut State Vice Regent, 9 Whitman Pond Rd., Simsbury, CT 06070 (860) 651-1329 viceregentctdar@comcast.net
Meal Reservation Deadline is Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Hostess – Shore & Country District
PR E - R E GI S T RAT I O N : All members of CTDAR attending this meeting MUST pre-register. Please return your completed pre-registration form,
including check payable to CTDAR, Inc. (Master Card or Visa accepted). Mail to: Mary Anne Magnuson, Reservation Chairman.
M E NU S
Friday Banquet
Saturday Breakfast All That Jazz
Sponsored by the Cameo Club – DAR 101 Minestrone Soup Sunrise Buffet
Pan Seared Cod /lemon herb crust
Fresh juice, scrambled eggs, bacon, Chicken Milanese/white wine sauce
home fries, fresh bakery basket Vegetables, starch, rolls, cheesecake
Tea/coffee
Tea/coffee
Saturday CTDAR Awards Luncheon
Pesto Rubbed Chicken/herb cream sauce
Baked Tilapia/pineapple salsa
garden salad, vegetable, starch
rolls, Chef’s choice dessert
Tea/coffee
DIR E C T I O N S : From 1-91 North or South exit 21. Turn right on Berlin Road. Turn right on Sebethe Drive. Hotel on right.
1 1 6 t h S ta te C o n fe r e n ce O ff i c i a l P r e - Re g i st r at i o n F o r m REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 7, 2009
Mail to: Mary Anne Magnuson, 127 Southwood Rd., Newington, CT 06111
(860) 667-2879 maryam144@hotmail.com
Please fill out one REGISTRATION form for EACH person attending the State Conference, even if you only attend ONE event.
There is no registration fee for guests, but guests should check in at the Registration Table.
NAME____________________________________________________________________________________
CHAPTER_________________________________
ADDRESS_________________________________________________________________________________
PHONE___________________________________
C h ec k t h e a p p r o p r i ate b o x :
State Officer o Honorary State Regent o State Councilor o State Chairman o Chapter Regent o Page o Member o Guest
Will you be staying at the hotel? Check if yes o
First time attending State Conference? Check if yes o
Cost Amount
R E g i st r at i o n fee : DAR Member (Required)
(Pages - no charge)
$5.00
$ _____________
o
s p ec i a l e v e n ts
Old Wethersfield Tour/Brunch (use separate form)
Friday, Registrar Workshop 10:30 – 11:30 am
Check if yes o
Friday, Membership Workshop 12:30 – 2:00 pm Check if yes o
P l e a se c h ec k m e n u c h o i ce :
Friday Banquet: Pan Seared Cod o Chicken Milanese o
Breakfast Buffet: o
Saturday Luncheon: Baked Tilapia o Pesto Rubbed Chicken o
Saturday Afternoon Break: Tea, coffee, soda, cookies Saturday Buffet Dinner at Baci Grill, 134 Berlin Rd, Cromwell: o
(Includes four entree choices, salad, dessert, rolls, soft drinks)
(Pages - no charge)
(Pages - no charge)
(Pages - no charge) $32.00
$17.00
$25.00
No charge
$ _____________
$ _____________
$ _____________
$30.00
$ _____________
Adopt a Page: Help purchase new CTDAR Page Sashes and Conference expenses
P a t r o n s : Essential Piece - $50.00 Red - $25.00 White - $15.00 Blue - $10.00
$ _____________
$ _____________
Thank you for your donation, which will help offset costs for our State Conference.
Total Payable to: CTDAR, Inc.
$ _____________
Please charge my (circle one) Master Card or VISA Card Permission to charge the above amount.
Card Number: ___________________________________________________ Expiration Date: ____________________ 3-digit Security code: _______________
Name on Card: __________________________________________________ Address on Card: ______________________________________________________
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N U T M E G S TAT E N E W S
s p r i ng 2 0 0 9
C . A . R . N ews
The CT Society Children of the American Revolution invites the members of the
CTDAR to join them on Saturday, March 28, 2009 for their annual state conference.
This year the meeting is being held at the Liberty Hall in Ansonia, CT. Look for the
registration form that will be posted on the CTDAR members’ web site soon! This is a
great way to find out what C.A.R. is all about, and find out how you can get involved
with training our future membership!
Our State Theme this year has been Ensuring American Patriotism with Hometown Pride.
Chelsea Bacon has worked hard with all the societies this year to create calendars that
were sold to support her project. Each calendar features historical places
and people throughout Connecticut, with photo drawings which may
be colored. The cost of each calendar is $10 including shipping, with a
minimum order of 5 calendars for $50. Please make your checks payable
to “C.S.C.A.R.” for the amount of your order, and mail to: Chelsea Bacon,
C.S.C.A.R. State President,10 Eggleston Lane, Old Greenwich, CT 068702002. The CTDAR owned Wadsworth Stable is to be the recipient of the
profits of her efforts. You will be among the first to find out how much
money was raised if you attend the conference! Cece Messier will be giving a
presentation on the Wadsworth Stable that day as part of this celebration.
For more information on the C.S.C.A.R. State Conference, please contact Sr. State
President, Tricia Chapman-Herel at (860) 227-8214 or tricia@thefeedbag.net.
The Nutmeg State News
Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution
State Registrar
Nancy Pexa
8 Monroe Lane
Avon, CT 06001
F o r w a r d i n g S e r v i ce Re q u este d
n o n - p r of i t M a i l