East Haddam Today

Hundreds celebrate historic Swing Bridge centennial

Brenda Sullivan | HTNP.com Editor — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:45:45 +0000

A parade of antique cars began a day of events celebration the centennial of the historic Swing Bridge in East Haddam, CT. Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

By Roger Straub | HTNP Contributor

The weather could not have been better for the 100th anniversary Swing Bridge celebration on Saturday, June 15.

The majestic bridge, and its bonds of steel, unite the towns of Haddam and East Haddam.

Ceremonies began with a bridge crossing led by the Moodus Drum and Fife Corps followed by a parade of antique automobiles.

Riding in many of the vehicles were several state officials and other dignitaries from the area.

As the parade portion of the celebration concluded, East Haddam First Selectman Mark Walter and Haddam First Selectman Paul DeStefano shared the podium and welcomed their audience to the celebratory event.

Several key phrases emerged during ensuing speeches such as “A Bridge to the Future,” “The Haddams Stand Together” and “A Steel Ribbon of Unity.”

A variety of displays and events at the festival and throughout the two host towns provided the crowds at the event with lots to see, taste, listen to and enjoy.

The Haddam Historical Society had a wonderful display that featured several early photographs depicting the history of the bridge and its construction. On hand to fill in the facts behind these photos were the museum’s Educational Director Sarah Neal and Historical Society Executive Director Elizabeth Malloy.

The East Haddam Historical Society Museum, whose Director is Charles Farrow, also showcased a Swing Bridge-themed art show boasting a variety of works by several area artists.

Both the Haddam Historical Society and the East Haddam Historical Society Museum help promote education, and a look back into the rich history of the towns. Both are a huge asset to their communities.

Other activities at the event included tours of the Nathan Hale Schoolhouse, ringing of the historic bell at St.Stephen’s Church, an art show by members of the East Haddam Art League at the Rathbun Library, a family lawn party hosted by Goodspeed, a children’s petting zoo, tours of the Goodspeed Opera House, historic games and live theater.

Rides on the historic Essex Steam Train, the Becky Thatcher Riverboat and River Quest’s craft also were available.

The famous Gelston House provided free coffee and egg sandwiches.

In all, it was a grand celebration befitting of a famous New England landmark.

Here are some snapshots from the day:

Enjoying a beautiful morning full of activities celebrating the Swing Bridge’s 100th birthday are Lou Ann Heft, Laura Magaraci and “Arrow.” Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

Lenore McLean and her tiny guest enjoy the Swing Bridge Centennial celebration in East Haddam, CT. Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

Several dignitaries made a ceremonial crossing of the Swing Bridge in antique cars, including the First Selectmen of Haddam and East Haddam. Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

Haddam First Selectman Paul DeStefano and East Haddam First Selectman Mark Walter enjoying the Swing Bridge Centennial celebration on June 15, 2013. The bridge connects the two towns. Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

Members of the American Legion prepare to enter the Swing Bridge Centennial parade in East Haddam, CT. Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

Haddam Historical Society member Sarah Neal at a display about the history of the Swing Bridge, which connects Haddam and East Haddam, at the centennial celebration June 15, 2013. Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

Several participants in the 2013 Swing Bridge Centennial dressed in clothing of that era. Photo by Roger Straub for HTNP.com

Posted June 16, 2013

Editor’s note: East Haddam Swing Bridge also has a Facebook page where you will find more fun photos. https://www.facebook.com/EastHaddamSwingBridge?fref=ts

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Attention model train lovers – look what’s in East Haddam

Charles Farrow | HTNP.com Contributor — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:00:27 +0000

The East Haddam Historical Society Museum at 264 Town St. has a new, massive, Lionel O-scale train display. Photo by Charles Farrow of HTNP.com

By Charles Farrow

The East Haddam Historical Society Museum at 264 Town St. has a new, massive, Lionel O-scale train display.

Tracks, bridges, engines, cars, interactive buildings – and it’s all in the Museum’s Great Hall.

Designed by Mike Miller, aka “Dr. ChooChoo,” who is the train master at Amato’s Toy Store in New Britain, with assistance from artist Roger Straub, this layout has something for everyone.

Watch for future notices about events where train buffs can learn how to operate the complex system.

The Museum opened on Memorial Day and is now open every Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Questions? Please call 860-873-3944, or “like” the East Haddam Historical Society Museum Facebook page or visit www.easthaddamhistory.org

Posted June 13, 2013

There’s room at the East Haddam Historical Society Writers table

Charles Farrow | HTNP.com Contributor — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:00:45 +0000

Members of the East Haddam Historical Society Writers help each other revise and improve their writing. From left to right, Mary Lee Abkemeier, Winnie Austin, Margi Butler and Deb Farrow. Photo by Charles Farrow for HTNP.com

By Charles Farrow

An exciting writing group meets from noon to 2 p.m. every Friday at the East Haddam Historical Society Museum at 264 Town St., year-round.

The focus is on fiction, non-fiction, memoir, poetry and timed writing.

Regular feedback, sharing, support and occasional publishing are the hallmarks.

Questions? Please call Deb at 860-873-9885.

Posted June 12, 2013

Two Wrasslin’ Cats – a cool new place to gather in East Haddam

Brenda Sullivan | HTNP.com Editor — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 16:00:58 +0000

By Roger Straub | HTNP Reviews

I recently visited with Mark Thiede at his newly opened coffee shop, Two Wrasslin’ Cats, located at the meeting of Routes 82 and 151 in East Haddam.

This quaint shop has been a dream of Mark’s for years. Back in the 90′s, he explored the possibility of becoming involved in a franchise with Starbucks Coffee, however that idea never solidified. Instead, Mark began to explore the option of opening his own shop.

Originally from the Torrington area, he knew that he wanted to develop his coffee shop in a smaller town. A friend suggested the Moodus /East Haddam area, and Mark began to look for an appropriate building here.

At first, he planned to open a shop in the village section of historic East Haddam but in the summer of 2012, he discovered a 1784 house for sale on Route 82. The location – with a beautiful back yard feel and good traffic flow – was perfect.

The next step was to get the necessary approvals from local zoning and after that, there was some renovation work to be done.

Once these tasks were complete, the vision Mark had pursued for years became a reality – as Two Wrasslin’ Cats.

Last week, the coffee shop opened and from all indications looks to be a wonderful and successful gathering place for its patrons.

Mark’s goal for his shop is that it becomes a venue for the East Haddam /Moodus area that supports the art, entertainment and cultural community.

“Being open to a diversity of talents and interests is critical,” he said. “I want the coffee shop to become a popular meeting place, where no suggestion of purpose or entertainment/learning environment is ignored.”

The shop’s name, Two Wrasslin’ Cats, was inspired by his wrasslin’ playful pet cats Bruno and Larry, who got their names from former pro wrestlers Bruno Sammartino and Larry Zbyszko.

The coffee shop boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and features a variety of specialty coffees, smoothies, iced coffees and teas, sandwiches, wraps, soups and great baked goods and breads.

Two Wrasslin’ Cats is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with extended hours for weekend entertainment and special events.

I can’t help feeling that Two Wrasslin’ Cats will become a wonderful destination, as well as an asset to the area.

Posted June11, 2013

Related link: Two Wrasslin’ Cats on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TwoWrasslinCats

In East Haddam – Strawberry Fest is June 11

Brenda Sullivan | HTNP.com Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 21:00:02 +0000

St. Bridget’s Strawberry Festival will be held on Tuesday, June 11th from 6-8 p.m. in the church hall, located at 75 Moodus-Leesville Road, Moodus, CT. Photo source: eclecticrecipes.com

Press Release

St. Bridget’s Strawberry Festival will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11 in the church hall, located at 75 Moodus-Leesville Road, Moodus, CT.

Tickets are $5 each for a generous serving of strawberry shortcake, and take-out is available.

Raffle tickets also will be sold for the Ladies Guild themed gift baskets. The winning tickets will be drawn that evening.

Questions? Please Call Patricia O’Brien at 860-873-3613 or Mary Ventres at 860-873-8581.

Posted June 10, 2013

East Haddam Farmers Market now open

Brenda Sullivan | HTNP.com Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 10:00:05 +0000

The weekly East Haddam Farmers’ Market is now open on Wednesdays, from 4-7 p.m. at the Grange Hall, 488 Town Street (Route 151). The market runs through the first Wednesday of October.

Press Release

The weekly 2013 East Haddam Farmers’ Market is now open on Wednesdays, from 4-7 p.m. at the Grange Hall, 488 Town Street (Route 151). The market runs through the first Wednesday of October.

A dozen or more unique booths are expected each week. You can check for an updated list of vendors on the market’s website at www.easthaddammarket.org

If you’re interested in being a vendor, there may still be openings in some categories. Booth space is available for the season for $100, $60 for half season or $10 a week. You must have business liability insurance.

Those receiving various forms of assistance can shop for fresh, local and delicious foods because The East Haddam Farmers’ Market is a Certified Connecticut farmers’ market, WIC and +SNAP/EBT Food Stamp Certified and Senior FMNP Authorized.

Questions? Please contact the Market Manager Jeff Savitsky at 860-786-8866 or at easthaddamfarmersmarket@gmail.com

You can also find the market on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/EastHaddamFarmersMarket?fref=ts

Posted June 9, 2013

Public hearing on reduced East Haddam budget June 10

Brenda Sullivan | HTNP.com Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 01:03:36 +0000

The East Haddam Board of Finance will hold a public hearing to review the proposed 2013-14 budget beginning at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 10 at the Nathan Hale-Ray High School auditorium.

The previously proposed budget of $28,700,076 failed when put to a referendum on May 21, by a 241 “no” to 198 “yes” vote.

The new proposed budget approved by the Board of Finance last week is $28,351,214.

The Board of Finance approved cuts of $342,529 to the Board of Selectman’s budget and $6,333 from the Board of Education budget.

If this reduced budget is approved by voters, this would result in a 4.49 mill increase, or a 3.1 percent increase in taxes.

According to the town, a copy of the budget will be posted on the East Haddam town website at www.easthaddam.org and copies will be available in the Town Clerk’s office during office hours. For more information, call 860-873-5022.

Posted June 9, 2013

In East Haddam, Mark your calendars for June 15 Swing Bridge Centennial

Brenda Sullivan | HTNP.com Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 00:28:52 +0000

By Brenda Sullivan | HTNP News Editor

You are invited to join the towns of East Haddam and Haddam in celebrating the Swing Bridge Centennial from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 15.

The celebration begins at 9 a.m. with antique automobiles transporting local and state officials across the historic bridge over the Connecticut River from Haddam to East Haddam.

A commemoration ceremony will follow, overlooking the bridge on the grounds of the East Haddam River House and Town Office property.

Parking for both events will be available at the Goodspeed Musicals parking lot in East Haddam Village.

After the ceremony, businesses and community groups on both sides of the Connecticut River will offer free activities to celebrate the 100^th birthday of the famous Swing Bridge.

A free shuttle, courtesy of Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, will run between Haddam’s Eagle Landing State Park and East Haddam Village.

Community activities celebrating “History, Art and Natural Beauty” along the river include:

Swing Bridge exhibits by the Haddam and East Haddam Historical Societies,

free tours of the Goodspeed Opera House and Nathan Hale Schoolhouse,

a history of the St. Stephen’s Church bell,

a Family Lawn Party celebrating 50 years of Goodspeed Musicals,

a free Children’s Carnival,

free boat rides and bridge viewings on board the RiverQuest and Becky Thatcher,

an Antique Car Show

See the Swing Bridge Centennial program for times and locations and more event details will be posted on the June 15 community calendar (in PDF format) at www.easthaddam.org or www.haddam.org

Editor’s note: According to the town website, in case of rain, the commemoration ceremony will be held at 9:30 a.m. at the East Haddam River House as planned. The car show and most other activities will be canceled.

Parking info

Parking from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in East Haddam courtesy of Goodspeed Musicals for viewing Historic Crossing & Commemoration Ceremony, Goodspeed Musicals

Family Lawn Party, Children’s Carnival and other activities. Free shuttle to Haddam side for additional activities. Follow signs for Event Parking – drive past Goodspeed theater at 6 Main St., turn right after Gelston House and right into lot.

Shuttle Service

Across the Swing Bridge from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Two school buses running between Haddam’s Eagle Landing State Park and East Haddam Village courtesy of Essex Steam Train and Riverboat with three stops in East Haddam Village: Gelston House, St. Stephen’s Church,

Front of Town Office, then on to Haddam stop. (NOTE: No pedestrian crossing or access onto the Swing Bridge.)

Eagle’s Landing

Essex Steam Train – free train ride, riverboat connection and shuttle service to the Swing Bridge

Commemoration Ceremony boarding at Essex, Deep River and Chester BY RESERVATION ONLY… Call 860-767-0137 and specify boarding location… Train departs southbound at noon for return trip.

Becky Thatcher Riverboat – 10:15 a.m. Free bridge viewing/photo op ride departing Eagle Landing State Park – One time, approximately 30-min trip. No reservations, standby walk on.

Riverquest – Free “under the bridge” tours by boat with a local historian. Departing approximately every 20 minutes from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. from Eagle Landing State Park. No reservations, standby walk on.

Posted June 9, 2013 based on a press release, as edited and added to by Brenda Sullivan, HTNP News Editor

Related links:

“Happy 99th Birthday – East Haddam Swing Bridge,” East Haddam Today, June 14, 2012

“In East Haddam – Swing Bridge Centennial planned,” East Haddam Today, Feb. 15, 2013