"The Most Auncient Towne in Connecticut"
In 1633 John Oldham, with a few friends from the Massachusetts Bay Colony, struck out overland to explore this territory, called Pyquaug (cleared land) by the Wongunk Indian tribe. Before their petition was approved by the Massachusetts General Court, ten "Adventurers" led by John Oldham settled here in 1634 on land they purchased from the Indians. In May, 1635 the Massachusetts Court approved the "new plantation", calling it Watertown. The Connecticut General Court in 1636 renamed the town Wythersfeild. By 1639 the town boundaries were extended to include Naubuc (Glastonbury), Stepney (Rocky Hill), & West Farms (Newington). These towns separated respectively in 1692, 1843, & 1871.
As Wethersfield celebrates its 375th Anniversary this year; several events and activities have been organized to mark the historic occasion. Wethersfield's 375th Anniversary celebrations are led by a list of community volunteers, organizations and the Town of Wethersfield. Become part of the celebration by attending one of the many events scheduled.
For further information contact the Parks & Recreation office at (860) 721-2890. If you wish to volunteer to assist with the celebration visit http://wethersfieldct.com/node/1894.
375th Anniversary Parade
A separate page provides information on the 375th Anniversary Parade, which took place October 4, 2009.
Other Events
In adittion to the items listed below, the Historic Wethersfield Tourism web site contains a comprehesive listing of events.
November
November 20th & 21st
Wethersfield Historical Society Antique Show
At the Pitkin Community Center, 30 Greenfield Street.
- Friday, November 20: Preview Party & Early Buying, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
- Saturday, November 21: Show open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
December
December 12th - January 3
Webb-Deane-Stevens Holiday House Tours
The three holiday-decorated homes of the Webb-Deane - Stevens Museum will open their doors to visitors 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Cost for guided tours is $10 per person, $8 per person for members or groups, $5 for children, and $25 per family (two adults and children). Preview Party December 11, 5 - 8 p.m. Visitors to the preview party will get a candlelight tour Of all three homes decked out in holiday décor. The candlelight preview party includes tours, elegant decorations, musical entertainment, wine and hors d'oeuvres. Cost for the holiday preview party is $15 per person. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged.
More information: www.wethhist.org
December 14
Holiday Carol Sing & Tree Lighting
6:30 p.m. at the Solomon Welles House, 220 Hartford Avenue.
The Town Council and Parks & Recreation Department invite the townspeople to join in this festive evening of caroling with Santa Claus.