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TABLE OF CONTENTS Features
20
Years
Departments and Growing
The MAC Celebrates Art in Milford
F
By Makayla Silva
From the annual sandcastle competition at Walnut Beach to the “homegrown” family musicals presented by Pantochino Productions, the Milford Arts Council (MAC) and the MAC Center for the Arts has served as a longtime haven for the arts in Milford. This year marks both the 45th anniversary of the
Milford Arts Council founding in 1971, and the 20th anniversary since the MAC Center for the Arts was established in the Civil War-era eastbound train station building listed on the National Historic Register that it calls home. Situated in the heart of downtown Milford only two
blocks from City Hall, the Parson’s Government Complex, downtown restaurants, shops, the Green and the harbor, the MAC Center for the Arts truly is at the center of it all, making it a perfect destination for both visitors and residents. COURTESY OF MILFORD ARTS COUNCIL
Programs presented by the MAC range from community theater to classes taught by internationally renowned classical guitarists, to children’s summer theatre camp and everything in between.
26 Milford Living • Spring
2016 • Milford Living 27
26 20 Years and Growing
The MAC Celebrates Art in Milford. By Makayla Silva
Milford’s
Hamlets Explored
From fishing ponds to farm land
F
BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER
rom the Oyster River to the Housatonic up to the Orange border, Milford’s neighborhoods are steeped in history and often remain that place known as “home” long after residents depart.
Anchor Beach
and director Griswold Special Home
A small neighborhood that is actually
Care. “I am privileged to live in one
a sub-section of Woodmont, Anchor
of the Borough’s most photographed
Beach garnered much media atten-
houses, which is the closest to Signal
tion last September when footage of
Rock.” From her window, Mills can
a rare waterspout (a type of nautical
not only keep an eye on the iconic
mini-tornado) occurred along the
flagpole to see which way the wind is
shoreline.
blowing, but says she is continuously amazed to “view the Rock’s beauty
multi-generational families co-exist-
that changes by the hour” and “the
ing with the ebb and flow of summer
steady procession of life that passes
visitors,” says Lesley Mills, owner
my garden in all seasons.”
TOM MACKIN
This is a “tightly knit community of
Bayview Beach
systems and improve storm
he recounts. “Great grandchil-
ing. “On hot, hot summer days,
Situated between Welch’s
preparedness.
dren still come from London
no one would use (or now
JJ RICHARDS (2)
Point and Calf Pen Meadow
When the Bayview’s commu-
every summer.” His childhood
uses) the inside shower,” she
Creek, Bayview weathered
nity holds their annual Fourth
memories include “many
shares. “My dad would leave
much damage inflicted by
of July parade, David Culhane’s
summers lifeguarding, the
work from Waterbury and
Hurricanes Irene and Sandy.
entire family gathers at their
vegetable truck, and the Great
sleep on our porch. The cottage
Thankfully, federal grant
circa 1911 family cottage to
Hurricane of ’55.” Culhane’s
continues to be a huge meeting
projects are underway to
celebrate. “We were a family
sister Maureen Morris waxes
place; an important part of our
redesign low-lying drainage
of nine brothers and sisters,”
nostalgic about her upbring-
lives.”
34 Milford Living • Spring
2016 • Milford Living 35
34 Milford’s Hamlets Explored From fishing ponds to farm land. By Cindy Papish Gerber
4 6 8 12 16 20 42 46 50 52 56 62 63 64
Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters This Season At Home Milford Morsels Family Time On the Water Milford Green Education Notebook Sunday Drive Historical Perspective Expressions Congratulations Where is it?
M i l f o r d L i v i n g Milford is for Living
About the cover: City Hall is refreshed and ready for its centennial celebration. Cover photo by Cathy Leite. Her
Spring
photography may be experienced at: www.cathyleitephotography.com
2016
2016 • Milford Living 1
We’re honored to be #1 in life insurance.
SPRING 2016 VOLUME 13 • ISSUE 1 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill Suzanne@milfordliving.com
Editorial Director Ann McGuire Ann@milfordliving.com
Art Director Ryan Swanson
Associate Publisher
Susan Carroll-Dwyer scarrolldwyer@milfordliving.com
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Contributing Writers
Joseph Barnes, Emily Carroll, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Christopher Carveth, Cindy Papish Gerber, Susan Glennon, Nancy Herman, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Gerry McGuire, Jo Montgomery, Makayla Silva
Production Manager Mario Recupido
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Milford Living Magazine (ISSN 1547-4429) is distributed quarterly by Red Mat Publishing. P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher. Subscription Rates: U.S. $23.96. Newsstand: $5.99. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460. Please allow six to eight weeks for subscription processing. Copyright 2003-2016 Red Mat Publishing.www.redmatpublishing.com Opinions expressed in Milford Living Magazine articles and advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, respectively, and should not be considered as expressions of management or official policies of Milford Living Magazine. www.redmatpublishing.com
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publisher’s letter Dear Friends & Neighbors, Together we welcome the warm breezes of the season and happily trade yesterday’s winter flu for today’s spring fever. On a beautiful day in Milford it’s hard to keep the memories of youth from flooding our thoughts as we take in the glorious scents of blossoms. Whether it is the flowering dogwood, the hyacinth, or even just that first recognition of fresh cut grass, your senses transport you back to carefree childhood days. And it’s more than just the smells that carry us into that hopeful place; it’s the simple warm puff of spring air blown about our faces—a refreshing testament to the warmth that surrounds us. To help celebrate spring’s return we invite you to join us at our 10th annual Milford Living Kite Fly, being held May 7 at beautiful Walnut Beach from 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. The Milford Living Kite Fly has become a rite of spring with friends and families looking skyward as their kites go aloft. As is tradition, the Connectikiters will be on hand to dazzle onlookers with their spectacular kites and to provide helpful hints for novice fliers. The Milford Living Kite Fly is a fun-filled event for people of all ages. Pack a picnic lunch and join us! We look forward to seeing everyone out and about this season, enjoying a good stretch of the legs after a season of icy walkways. As always we enjoy hearing from you, so drop us a line with story ideas or pictures you may want to share. We hope you enjoy this issue of Milford Living, we welcome your comments, suggestions, and questions and look forward to hearing from you.
Wishing you a very happy springtime—
Suzanne 4 Milford Living • Spring
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readers’ letters I enjoyed the articles in last summer’s issue
We moved back to Milford recently after
I love the photography in you magazine and
focused on Long Island Sound, and the
living out of state for years. A subscriber since
I’m a bit of a shutterbug myself. How do you
winter story on the Frostbiters. As a boater
you started the magazine, we loved seeing a
find photographers?
myself, it is certainly of interest to me.
little bit of home. Thank you for helping with
Will you be including more articles on the
our homesickness over the years! We are glad
subject?
to be home. —John Swan, Branford CT
—Yan Pen We agree that the photographers featured in
—Lillian Angus, Milford CT
Milford Living have so much talent. Many of them found their way into our pages by doing
Great minds think alike. We hope you will
Thank you so much Lillian! We have many
exactly what you have done…by reaching
enjoy the article in this issue about prepping
subscribers that have moved away and are
out. Please drop me a note at Suzanne@
your boat for the summer season. If you have
always happy to give them a little glimpse of
milfordliving.com or stop by our office in Devon
any ideas for articles about seafaring folk we
home. Welcome back!
for more information on how to share samples
would be glad to hear them.
and for information on submission guidelines.
Drop us a line…
Please send your comments, contributions, suggestions, and questions to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460 or email our publisher at: suzanne@milfordliving.com
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this season
COURTESY OF THE MILFORD GARDEN CLUB (6)
Still In Bloom at 90
L
ong before the snow began melting, the men and women of the Milford Garden Club began to get ready to celebrate a momentous occasion. “Ninety years and going strong…this club is really amazing,” says long time member and club officer Kathy Kobishyn.
(Left) Beautiful and colorful specimens on display during a meeting at the Stow Chapter House; (Above) Friendships grow and bloom in the Milford Garden Club. memorate the City’s the 375th anniversary. The beautiful pink flower, which is insect resistant,
to connect with the Milford community. Many
lasts several weeks and is a favorite with many
regular meetings held in the members’
The club began in the late 1920s, with
of the members donate perennials from their
of the club members. “Our hope is that down
homes. Since the early 1990s the Club has
gardens for sale, in addition to the baked goods,
the line, Milford will enjoy a wave of pink flow-
met on Prospect Street in the Chapter House
crafts, and a tag sale of gardening-related
ers throughout the city,” said club president
of the Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter of the
items. This year’s May Market will take place
Bunny Elmore. Elmore is also a fan of large
DAR.
on May 10th at the Fowler Pavillion beginning
tropical plants, insisting “Bigger is better!” But
at 8:30 a.m .
she always encourages native species for insect
Over the last two decades there have been as many as 85 members within the Milford
Two years ago the Garden Club was instru-
diversity and healthy plants.
Garden Club. Those members have taken part
mental in having Echinacea Purpurea Magnus,
in the annual May Market, the Club’s primary
also known as the Purple Coneflower, named
before), members are out and about town
fundraiser and a chance for the club members
the Official City Flower of Milford to com-
working on various projects, as well as their
8 Milford Living • Spring
As soon as the weather permits (and often
own gardens. They spend time maintaining
in Sleepy Hollow, NY, where members enjoyed
best way to get to understand how the club
the Historical Society garden and what is now
the artwork, gardens, and palatial home tour
functions and what we do,” she explains. She
called the Native Species Education Garden that
on a bright, sunny day.
shares how her favorite memories are of those
is located in front of the Milford Library. They
To join the Milford Garden Club you just
times when members are working on projects
provide pamphlets that detail information on
have to have an interest in planting. For many
and committees out of regular meeting days.
the types of plants and where they are best
members, planting is a year-long
She cites the Club’s work last year on their
suited so that Milford residents can start their
endeavor; many begin growing
own gardens.
seedlings indoors during the
Frequent trips to visit other gardens is some-
dark days of winter for planting
donation to the Milford Hospital Auxiliary’s annual Celebration of Trees and the three rooms they decorated at the Stockade
thing the members look forward to, venturing
once the weather begins to
House for the Milford’s Historical
to parks in Connecticut, New York, and other
warm. There are members
Society’s holiday event as such
states to admire different types of gardens.
who joined with no garden-
times. “It’s through these types of
These events are planned by Kobishyn who
ing experience, and members
committees and activities that fel-
has been the Club’s Trip Chairman for the past
who are considered master
several years. Elizabeth Park in Hartford is one
gardeners.
of their personal favorites. Another memorable trip was a visit to Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate,
For Bunny Elmore becoming an officer of the club was “the
lowships and friendships blossom,” she says. The club has received awards both for individual members and
2016 • Milford Living 9
this season as a group. A Certificate of Merit was awarded to the Club for their brochure on the official city flower. They have also been recognized with a Certificate of Achievement for all of the native trees planted since 2013. The Connecticut Tribute Award was given to member Letty Malone for her constant commitment to open
Club continues to grow, to create friendships,
space preservation within the city. And the club
and to share their deep appreciation of the
hands out its own Distinguished Service Award
beauty of Milford with its residents. They
to members who have contributed to the
invite you to join and contribute in making
outstanding work in the Milford community.
the city flourish.
Now 90 years young, the Milford Garden
—Emily Carroll
MEETINGS ARE HELD on the second Tuesday of each month (except July). For more information visit www.milfordgardenclub.org.
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at home wifi, and a lamp between 1000-3000 lumens with at least a 600-hour life. Once you have a projector, you just hook it up to your DVD, Blueray, or computer and you can display whatever kind of media strikes your fancy. A SCREEN—Once again, prices and options vary. You can buy a screen or construct a less expensive option using blackout cloth and PVC pipe. (Search YouTube for videos on
JASON GESSNER
“How to Build an Outdoor Theatre.”) Cheaper
Back to the Yard
“I
f I ever go looking for my heart’s desire again, I won’t look any further than my own backyard...” says Dorothy at the end of L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” She had a point.
Secluded and safe, the beloved backyard
still: hang a sheet or project directly onto a flat wall. SPEAKERS—The output of your speaker should match the size of your yard and your audience. If you’re having a big party or projecting across a large area, a decent PA system might be called for. If you’re just having a small gathering, a sound bar with a subwoofer (the type used with a flat screen TV) should do the trick. Remember, sound gets dispersed outside, so be sure to have
hardcore technophile doesn’t want to waste
enough amplification or you’ll be back in the
has been a staple of literature and cinema for
the beautiful spring and summer inside
silent era.
ages. Think Romeo climbing Juliet’s tree to
playing Grand Theft Auto.
pitch woo or the Brady Bunch having potato
Wanting the beauty of the outdoors with
Your awesome new theater system can be used for more than just movies. Add a
sack races on AstroTurf. The backyard has
an all-access pass to indoor luxuries and
microphone (and apologize to the neighbors)
always been a place where good times can be
entertainment has given birth to the outside
and you’ve got backyard karaoke!
found and memories made.
theatre. With a projector, a screen, and some
You can project sporting events for big
speakers you can watch a beloved movie or
crowd, stage a video game battle, produce
1950s were satisfied with a table, a few chairs,
binge-watch Netflix underneath the stars.
slideshows for a birthday party, or even
and a barbeque, today’s backyard trends give
With this type of project, as in all things, you
project cool background images during a
a nod to the past while being firmly planted
can either spend a lot, or cut a few corners,
midsummer party.
in the future.
save a little, and still have a great time.
And while the backyard pioneers of the
Techno Turf
Before the MGM Lion roars, however, here’s
Amped Up Old School
what you’ll need:
People aren’t just bringing their theatre
With so much technology at our fingertips
systems outside, they’re taking traditional
inside the home, the simple act of spending
A PROJECTOR—The cost of a home theatre
parlor games onto the lawn. Backyard classics
time in the backyard can feel like roughing
projector will depend on how bright and
like horseshoes, croquet, and whiffle ball
it in the backwoods. Hopelessly tethered to
vivid you want your picture. Specifications
have new rivals in the form of giant sized
our gizmos we may be, but even the most
to look for are keystone correction, 1080p,
versions of the board games we played when
12 Milford Living • Spring
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2016 • Milford Living 13
at home we were young: Kerplunk, Jenga, Connect
• Create an almost magical effect by hanging
Four, Scrabble, Dominoes, and Tic Tac Toe
candles in jars from fishing line of different
can all be found in supersized lawn editions!
lengths on low hanging branches. Once the
If you’re the cerebral type, 24-inch tall chess
sun goes down, the lit candles appear to
pieces can make you the Bobby Fischer of the
float and bob in midair.
Kentucky Blue Grass. Want to be creative and
• Like things shiny? Drill some holes in your
make your own game? A few colored cans of
fence and stuff them with marbles. When
yard marking paint applied in circles directly
the sun hits them, they sparkle. Boom! You
to the grass can make a fun Twister board
just bedazzled your fence.
that won’t move.
With entire channels dedicated to home improvements and the power of the Internet
Light the Candle
at our disposal, creating interesting and fun
Once the sun goes down and you’ve put
romantic, and beautiful space all your own.
spaces is easier than ever. Remember the
away the giant Jenga game, you’re gonna
• Make your backyard glow by spraying your
backyard is your place; you’re refuge. Don’t
want to brighten things up. While there’s no
planters with glow in the dark paint. As
shortage of places to buy outdoor lighting,
the sun charges them by day they look like
you might want to get your craft on and
regular pots. Once the sun sets they give off
try a few things to create a memorable,
a luminous glow.
be afraid to personalize it. Have fun, think big, and remember, there’s no place like home. —Gerry McGuire
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milford morsels
Pic(nic) a Spot
T
he word “picnic” is a ubiquitous one, heard and used by most of us since childhood. It conjures up images of families sitting around a red and white checked blanket or tablecloth on the grass in a lovely park, eating a meal from a basket lovingly packed. Children romp and play between bites and adults lounge on the blanket, sipping iced tea, fending off columns of ants attempting to steal the food before it can be consumed. Picnics have a long history. The word itself
when people would have hunting feasts
class had the opportunity to take some
comes from a French word pique-nique, that
consisting of bread, cheese, ale, and meats.
spare time to do the same, and the modern
was used for people in the 1600s who brought
Stories about Robin Hood describe this well.
picnicking tradition was born.
their own wine when they dined outside of
Over time, picnicking became a privilege of
Traditional American picnic food is simple,
their homes. The actual practice of picnicking,
the wealthy who had the leisure time to enjoy
eaten cold or room temperature, and delicious.
as in deliberately choosing to take a meal
a packed meal in beautiful parks and other
The first things that pop into many people’s
outdoors, harkens back to Medieval times,
outdoor settings. Eventually, even the working
minds are cold fried chicken, cheese and crackers, and fruit packed into a Red Riding Hood-type basket. Iced tea, lemonade, and wine are the traditional beverages of choice, sipped out of tumblers also carried in the basket. Other traditional foods are deviled eggs, sandwiches, coleslaw, green salad, and a pie or cookies for dessert. With the foodie movement in full swing, other foods have made their way into picnic baskets, which in and of themselves have also evolved. Soft-sided coolers that allow for ice packs to keep food cold are now frequently used. Some have retractable handles and wheels, and many come equipped with extra compartments for plates, napkins, and flatware. Some of the currently popular picnic foods are ethnic, like sushi, curried salads, tabbouleh, cold kebabs, and banh mi sandwiches. Others harness the simplicity of humble ingredients. Milford residents Meredith and Michael Munk describe their perfect picnic basket as including “salted butter baguette, cornichons, and rose champagne.”
16 Milford Living • Spring
Cheese and crackers are still a go-to
dried fruit, bean salad with artisan
choice for many picnickers, and even
vinegars, potato salads with bacon
those who choose to go gluten-free
and herbs, and Mediterranean-themed
can substitute with rice cakes or rice
tomato, onion, and cucumber salads
crackers. Bite-sized fruit like grapes,
have taken the place of the bland
strawberries, cherries, and apple slices
coleslaws, potato, and egg salads. Olive
along with olives, hard-boiled eggs, and
tapenade eaten on crackers or crusty
pepperoni are good healthy options
bread is a newly popular choice, and
and very tasty.
the old canned fruit salad has been
Salads remain popular as picnic food.
upgraded to include herbs and spices,
A new favorite of local accountant
as well as non-traditional fruit choices
Maureen Lucas is quinoa salad. She
such as persimmon, pomegranate,
makes it with black beans, corn, and
guava, and papaya. Pies and cookies,
tomatoes, and says it’s absolutely
along with the trendy dessert of
delicious. Chicken salad with nuts and
cupcakes, often finish off the meal.
Two Dinners for $29.00 Seven Days 3-6 PM
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milford morsels There are many places in Milford to have a picnic. With our miles of shoreline, as well as parks and designated open spaces, a person could have a picnic every weekend of the summer and not hit all of the spaces. Beaches and coastal areas are a favorite for many. The Coastal Center at Milford Point, located on an 8-acre barrier beach, has space for picnicking as well as offering the opportunity to observe wildlife and sea life during a visit. Walnut Beach is a popular local
Whatever the food packed—traditional, trendy, or outsidethe-box—a picnic is a fantastic, affordable way to get outdoors and spend time with friends and family.
destination, and picnickers can enjoy time on
other hot grillable foods at their gathering. Keeping with the beach theme, Gulf, Anchor, Walnut, and Woodmont beaches are also great places to picnic. Summer Nights by Harbor Lights, a Milford summer tradition of free Friday evening concerts behind the public library on New Haven Avenue is a perfect picnic venue and many people can be found sharing their picnic dinner with family and friends under the Rotary Pavilion while listening to the music. In the same vicinity, Lisman
the sand or even use one of the mini-pavilions
Landing and the public boat ramp have picnic
near the south side of the main parking lot for
picnicking at Silver Sands State Park on both
tables that are perfect to enjoy a nice packed
some shade.
the sand and in the grassy areas. There are
meal.
On every weekend from late spring
picnic tables and charcoal grills available for
through early fall, people can be found
those wanting to include burgers, dogs, and
For those wanting a more pastoral or wooded setting, Eisenhower Park on North
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Street is the place to go. There are acres of fields, woods, and even a playground to use for a picnic outing. There is plenty of room for a game of Whiffle Ball, Frisbee, or even catching fireflies as twilight approaches. Whatever the food packed—traditional, trendy, or outsidethe-box—a picnic is a fantastic, affordable way to get outdoors and spend time with friends and family. Milford is a city with many locations that are perfect for the impromptu or the planned picnic, for city residents as well as visitors. (Remember, alcoholic beverages are not allowed on public property, so plan accordingly.) The days and evenings of summer beg for picnic excursions, and Milford is the perfect place to take them! —Shaileen Kelly Landsberg
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family time
Festivals, Fairs, & Feasts T CHRISTOPHER CARVETH
he uptick in temperature has Milfordites emerging from their winter dens in search of some good old-fashioned family fun. Fortunately here in town there are a wide variety of festivals, fairs, and feasts for everyone. Be it art, culture, competition, history, or culinary goodness, nearly every weekend in Milford offers up an event with food, fun, and entertainment to keep your calendar full. All family-friendly, these events engage our community together to enjoy a well deserved good time.
time to let the kids run and romp towards
Spring Arts & Crafts Show
Saturday, May 7, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday, May 8, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. http://www.eastcoastcraftshows.com
nectikiters will be flying their amazing kites!
his crew will be sailing into Milford Harbor to
They are always willing to help the amateurs.
take over the town! Bring the kiddies to the
Free kites and bubbles for the kids while
biggest scavenger hunt in the state. Follow the
supplies last. Free and open to the public, this
map, solve the clues, and collect your booty.
event is held at Walnut Beach.
Get stamps from each stop and be entered in a
The Mary Taylor Fair on the Green Friday June 3 Saturday June 4 www.mtm-umc.org/fair
drawing to win a Pirates Chest of Treasures. The DMBA has been welcoming pirates for almost a decade. Listen to music by the Elwoods at the Gazebo and tap your toes to Milford’s own Fife and Drum Corp on River Street. Fun activities will be
The Mary Taylor Methodist Church Fair on
available for children on the Green. Pirates will
Mother’s Day weekend is made all the more
the Green celebrates its 45th anniversary this
sail away at 5 bells for the Seven Seas.
special with the Downtown Milford Business
year. A favorite of locals, this church fair is
Association (DMBA) sponsored Spring Arts &
manned by hundreds of volunteers. Vendors
Crafts Show. Exhibitors from throughout New
abound with all manner of goods and
England will display a wide variety of hand-
goodies. A fantastic rummage sale held in the
Saturday July 23, 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. www.milfordrotary.org
crafted items for all to see…and purchase! It’s
church basement holds treasures to be found
Celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year
a great time to stroll along the Milford Green
and something for everyone; a golf club, a
this annual feast draws lobster lovers from all
with your Mom and enjoy a spring day. This
charming vase, or a well-loved toy. The food,
across New England. The setting right on the
is a juried show offering exceptional items for
cooked to perfection by parishioners, features
varying tastes. There will be music, food, and
cheeseburgers, black bean burritos, straw-
fun for all. Admission is free.
berry shortcake, funnel cake and more.
Milford Living Kite Fly
Captain Kidd Day
The 10th annual Milford Living Kite fly is fun
Put on your eye patch, get your parrot on your
for kids of all ages. Just a fun fly, it’s a great
shoulder, and say arrrgh! Captain Kidd and
Saturday, May 7 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. www.milfordliving.com
20 Milford Living • Spring
Sunday, June 12, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. www.downtownmilfordct.org
Milford Rotary Lobster Bake
COURTESY OF DMBA
COURTESY OF DMBA
getting their kites aloft. Once again the Con-
harbor can’t be beat as you dine on lobsters…
a.m. or race themselves. All levels are welcome
Milford Oyster Festival has become the coup
and steak if you aren’t a shellfish fan. Dinners
and the race concludes around 10:00 a.m. Held
des gras of events in town. This summer will
include, corn on the cob, coleslaw, bottomless
on the Corner Green across from the entrance
mark their 42nd year of dishing up oysters,
wine, beer, and soda. A live band keeps the
to Walnut Beach, craftsman and artisans will
rain or shine. The day kicks off with a canoe
afternoon lively. Tickets sell quickly so get
have all manner of their wares to browse
and kayak race to Charles Island and back.
them early. The event raises money for the
and buy. Woodworking, metalwork, pottery,
Hundreds of craft vendors will line the
Milford Rotary scholarship fund for students
ceramics, clothing, and jewelry. This is a
Green, classic cars will park at the Lisman
going off to college from Milford.
juried festival, so all arts and crafts are one of
Saturday, August 6, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. www.walnutbeachassociation.com
throughout the day. Food vendors will offer fest favorites for all to enjoy.
Milford Oyster Festival
hold its 18th Annual Art & Crafts Festival.
Saturday, August 20, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. www.milfordoysterfestival.com
Early birds can watch the 5K starting at 8:00
Since its humble beginnings in 1974, the
The arts colony of Milford, Walnut Beach will
JJ RICHARDS
Walnut Beach Association Arts & Crafts Festival
a kind. A wide range of musical acts will play
Walk with Exotic Butterflies On exhibit May 28 – Labor Day Getting close to our animals, brings you and yours closer together. MaritimeAquarium.org #1 in New England. A Top 25 U.S. Aquarium.
2016 • Milford Living 21
family time Landing, and thousands of attendees will
make for a fun afternoon watching teams
enjoy a spin on classic carnival rides. The
compete in a variety of events. Vendors offer
Main Stage offers up some local talent as well
nifty fire-related items. The event is sponsored
as a nationally renowned headliner. Over a
by Engine 260 and donates all proceeds to the
dozen varieties of 30,000 oysters consumed
Milford Recreation Department’s Camp Happi-
during this one day are available fresh off the
ness benefitting children with special needs.
boats. One of the largest Milford non-profit JJ RICHARDS
fundraisers, the Oyster Festival annually
Milford Irish Festival
us safe throughout the year. It’s one of the old-
Friday, September 16, 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Saturday, September 17, 11:00 am – 11:00 p.m. www.milfordirish.org
est and largest fire musters in New England,
In what has become an anticipated annual
beginning with a parade of fire apparatus
event, the Milford Irish Heritage Society has
The 45th annual Fire Muster is a fun fall event
through town on their way to Eisenhower
provided a bit of the Irish to everyone in
for the whole family. Drawing fire depart-
Park. Antique trucks, spicy chili, and cold beer
Milford one weekend in September. Great Irish
raises more than $150,000 each year for some 70 local civic and non-profit organizations.
Engine 260 Fire Muster Saturday, September, 10, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. www.engine260.org
ments from all over the state and beyond it is a great way to learn about the people who keep
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music, dancing, children’s activities, and food! Remember, corned beef and cabbage isn’t only for St. Patrick’s Day. Plenty of Irish themed vendors sell all things Claddagh at Fowler Field.
“
Remember, corned beef and cabbage isn’t only for St. Patrick’s Day.
”
COURTESY OF MAC
JJ RICHARDS
MAC Fest
Saturday, September 17, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. www.milfordarts.org The “Be a Part of Art” tagline of the Milford Arts Council comes to fruition with this
by sponsoring activities like the Milford Public
dynamic arts festival. Live music, dance,
Library’s green screen photo booth and Milford
and movement encourage festival goers to
Education Foundation’s giant lawn chess.
participate in this “arts engagement festival.”
This year Pantochino Productions will have a
Become part of a drum circle, a paint-in, do a
pop-up theater to enjoy. Great local foods will
bit of yoga, or learn the Tango. Local groups
include sweet treats from the Walnut Beach
and non-profit organizations get in on the fun
Creamery and B.R.Y.A.C. lobster rolls.
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Oktoberfest
toe-tapping tunes from the Bavarian Club
year marks the 6th annual event and benefits
of Meriden. Fowler Field will become a
the Boys & Girls Club of Milford. If you’re inter-
small piece of Germany for the day, so save
ested in flaunting your carving skills you can
your calories for brats, knockwurst, and
be a part of the exhibit on the pier. As the sun
sauerkraut. The Biergarten will be serving
sets the pier is illuminated and the fancifully
20 different brews from local brewers and
carved pumpkins reflect on the waves.
classics like Spatan. Raffles, souvenirs, and games will be available throughout the day for the Devon Rotary’s biggest fundraiser of the year.
Saturday, September 24, 12:00p.m. – 9:00 p.m. www.devonrotary.org
Pumpkins on the Pier
Hike up your lederhosen and lace up your
The perfect fall fair, Pumpkins on the Pier
dirndl, Oktoberfest will have you hopping
offers a pumpkin patch right at Walnut Beach.
about polka-ing the night away with
A fun-filled event for the whole family, this
24 Milford Living • Spring
—Susan Carroll Dwyer
Saturday, October 8th www.pumpkinsonthepier.org
COURTESY OF PUMPKINS ON THE PIER
COURTESY OF DEVON ROTARY
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usLiving On 25 2016 • Milford
20
Years
The MAC Celebrates Art in Milford
F
By Makayla Silva
From the annual sandcastle competition at Walnut Beach to the “homegrown” family musicals presented by Pantochino Productions, the Milford Arts Council (MAC) and the MAC Center for the Arts has served as a longtime haven for the arts in Milford. This year marks both the 45th anniversary of the
Milford Arts Council founding in 1971, and the 20th anniversary since the MAC Center for the Arts was established in the Civil War-era eastbound train station building listed on the National Historic Register that it calls home. Situated in the heart of downtown Milford only two
blocks from City Hall, the Parson’s Government Complex, downtown restaurants, shops, the Green and the harbor, the MAC Center for the Arts truly is at the center of it all, making it a perfect destination for both visitors and residents. Programs presented by the MAC range from community theater to classes taught by internationally renowned classical guitarists, to children’s summer theatre camp and everything in between.
26 Milford Living • Spring
COURTESY OF MILFORD ARTS COUNCIL
and Growing
2016 • Milford Living 27
A
The Legacy
According to MAC executive director Paige Miglio, the
permanent space to present
then-abandoned eastbound
living in the building; the roof
their art,” Miglio says.
train station and transform it
was gone. It needed a total
into the Milford Center for the
renovation.”
With the help of Milford
Milford Fine Arts Council
Transit District’s general
Arts. At the time, says Miglio,
was founded in 1971 by a
manager Henry Jadach, the
the building “was nothing but
ing by the MAC to gain the
It took years of campaign-
group of artists, musicians,
council looked to reclaim the
a shell. There were animals
federal, state, and city funding
and performers who were looking for a way to share ideas. Originally convening in the Taylor Library that is now home to the Milford
T
Chamber of Commerce, the council met regularly to plan the Connecticut Artist Show, a regional visual arts show that became one of the best shows of its kind in the northeast. The show was presented at the Milford Public Library, BIC headquarters, and various corporations throughout the city. In 1984, the decision was made to find a more permanent home for the performances, exhibitions, classes, and theater shows that were then scattered throughout the city of Milford. “After ten years, they decided to pool
COURTESY OF MILFORD ARTS COUNCIL
their resources and find a
28 Milford Living • Spring
needed to open the Milford
banjo, harmonica, and the
as Stamford and Greenwich.
MAC will constantly be
Center for the Arts in 1995.
fiddle. According to Garrity,
“We’re not like other places
seeking out those new
Once open, however, the MAC
“The Coffeehouse is great for
where it’s located deep within
opportunities to develop
immediately got to work
both the people attending
the city and hard to get to,”
and showcase the next
creating some of the programs
who are able to listen to
he says. “It’s right on the train
great wave of performers
that would become an integral
music they might not have
line. People know exactly
and artists of all kinds.”
part of their 20 year legacy,
heard otherwise and also for
including the Eastbound
the bands who are playing for
Theatre, Performance Cof-
a crowd that really wants to
feehouses, and member and
listen to them play.”
T
Longstanding Programs
Another exceedingly popular regular feature at the MAC Center for the Arts is live theatre. Now in its 22nd season, the Eastbound
Throughout the last two
Theatre (the first two seasons
decades, the MAC Center for
were performed at the
the Arts has served as an
Parson’s Center) mounts three
outlet for artists across all
annual performances with a
genres offering a stage for
focus on comedies, dramas,
performances, the acoustics
and mysteries.
for concerts, and the gallery
Eastbound chairman Tom
space for hanging a multitude
Rushen says he became
of artistic shows.
involved in 1998 working
Performance Coffeehouse is
COURTESY OF MILFORD ARTS COUNCIL
resident visual arts shows.
W The Firehouse Gallery
backstage with set changes
where we are and the traffic
a longstanding program run
and eventually moved to the
spills from here onto the local
at the Center offering evening
front of as both a performer
businesses and restaurants.”
coffeehouse-style entertain-
and a director. “I found the
ment ranging from mellow
MAC and Eastbound Theatre
the Center has continually
several Devon stations into
folk music to rollicking soul.
at a time when my life needed
changed throughout the past
a new centralized facility
On Friday nights throughout
a change,” Rushen says.
two decades, the support from
on Naugatuck Avenue and
the year, the MAC brings in
“The dynamic environment
the city and the community
vacated the Walnut Beach
local performers like Cece
constantly challenges me
has remained the same. “We
Fire Company, the MAC
Borjeson and Ruth George, The
to see things in new ways.
are growing by leaps and
Center for the Arts decided
Kerry Boys, and Washboard
Through our productions and
bounds, particularly since
to create the Firehouse Art
Slim & The Bluelights.
events like East-West PlayFest,
Paige has taken over with
Gallery as an extension of its
I’ve been blessed working
all of the new programs that
downtown hub.
resident and chair of Per-
with some incredible people,
I don’t think anyone would
formance Coffeehouse, says
talented and giving. I’m in a
have thought to bring in here
Milford came to an agree-
the 2016 series will include
position where I’m constantly
prior,” he says. “There is such
ment in 2000 to develop
six shows that range from
making new friends.”
an abundance of talent and
the former fire station into
creativity in here, everyone
a community facility to
Laura Garrity, a Derby
singer-songwriters to jug
Rushen, of Stratford, says
Rushen says that while
When the Milford Fire
Department consolidated
The MAC and the City of
bands that incorporate pure
the Milford Center for the
has so many good ideas and
both promote the arts and
Americana instruments like
Arts’ trackside location
so much they want to bring
improve the neighborhood.
tub bass, washboard, jug,
brings in actors from as far
to the table. It’s my hope that
Milford resident Valerie
2016 • Milford Living 29
Intelisano, the liaison for the
herself, Intelisano joined
Firehouse Art Gallery, says
the arts council 18 years
the 1,000 square foot gallery
ago and began working on
has continued to grow since
various committees from
opening its doors in 2003.
the jazz program to the coffee house to the holiday
gallery,” she says. “The
boutique. “The Milford Arts
arts should be available to
Council does so much for
everyone in every way. If you
the community and they
don’t have art and culture in
probably don’t even know it.
a society then what do you
It’s like the unspoken word,”
have?”
she says.
E
COURTESY OF MILFORD ARTS COUNCIL
“I am most proud of this
Firehouse Gallery puts on eight themed shows annually with two- and three-
dimensional pieces. Shows
What’s New?
Executive director Paige
can accommodate up to 96
Miglio joined the MAC in 2013
pieces with artists coming
following a short term by
from as far as New York and
Van Parker, who had replaced
New Jersey to submit their
longtime executive director
work. Run entirely by a core
Bill Meddick who served on
group of about ten volunteers,
the council for more than
the Gallery is open to the
three decades. Since her
“The arts should be available to everyone in every way. If you don’t have art and culture in a society then what do you have?”
public Friday-Sunday from
arrival, Miglio has been the
12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
driving force behind new
Miglio was at the helm
programming, events, and
when the Milford Fine Arts
Chair-ity Auction fundraiser
Council dropped the “Fine”
to support MEF’s Teacher
from its moniker in 2014
Mini-Grant program; and
and became the Milford Arts
introduced an array of new
Council, or MAC, to appeal
class offerings.
As a watercolor artist
community partnerships.
Foundation (MEF) in its
to a more broad range of
In the fall of 2015, in col-
artists in the community.
laboration with Pantochino
“The word ‘fine’ seemed to
Productions, the MAC debuted
be a hindrance to the artist
its new entertainment series,
community,” Miglio says.
Nite Spot Nights, offering
“Milford Arts Council is now
six nightclub-style evenings
more inclusive and empower-
of entertainment, likening
ing for everyone.”
the feeling of New York City
In addition to changing its
30 Milford Living • Spring
with the Milford Education
cabaret rooms.
name, the MAC has intro-
The MAC Center invites the
duced Pantochino Produc-
local community to “be a part
tions, an independent theatre
of art” with the addition of
company specializing in
several new classes including
theatre for the whole family,
a BYOB paint night, NIA
to its repertoire; partnered
Dance and Movement Classes
with Nancy Hammett, and
added pop-up workshops, a
renaissance of sorts, with
leaders, the MAC center will
Tango classes with instructor
sidewalk chalk contest, mini-
newly granted state funding
be installing informational
Gem Duras.
family theater experience
and business partnerships,”
kiosks in downtown Milford
with Pantochino, plein air
that will enable the MAC
with walking maps of the
the community with art , the
And, to continue to connect
painting, teen flash mob, and
to grow for another 20
area, local restaurant menus,
MAC has created The MAC
live music to create a more
years. The MAC Center was
and community events.
Fest, a single-day festival on
interactive arts festival.
a recent recipient of a pilot
D
“It is unprecedented that
the Milford Green inviting
program award by the state
this grant funding has
the community to “Be a Part
Department of Economic and
become available to a site
Community Development
of our size. Typically, the
called “Good to Great,” which
money would go to a much
of Art.” In Miglio’s words,
“The Center invites you to
put down your phone, your
The Evolution Continues
During the last 20 years,
funds 20 cultural and historic
larger site of historic and
iPad, and computer and enjoy
the Milford Arts Council has
organizations that enhance
cultural value,” says Miglio.
opening up your mind to new
moved its headquarters,
cultural and historic sites in
“This positions the MAC
ideas.”
changed its logo and its
local communities through-
center to be pivotal for the
name, and along the way
out Connecticut.
success of the downtown
While the event will
continue to include juried
exposed tens of thousands of
handcrafted, original fine
people to the arts. According
Great funds and $15,000 in
art, artisans, and local
to Miglio, “In our 20th year
matching funding from area
is, indeed, at the center of the
we are in the middle of a
business and community
heart of Milford.
food vendors, the MAC has
With the $60,000 Good to
community.” The MAC Center for the Arts
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Milford’s
Hamlets Explored
From fishing ponds to farm land
F
rom the Oyster River to the Housatonic up to the Orange border, Milford’s neighborhoods are steeped in history and often remain that place known as “home” long after residents depart.
Anchor Beach
and director Griswold Special Home
A small neighborhood that is actually
Care. “I am privileged to live in one
a sub-section of Woodmont, Anchor
of the Borough’s most photographed
Beach garnered much media atten-
houses, which is the closest to Signal
tion last September when footage of
Rock.” From her window, Mills can
a rare waterspout (a type of nautical
not only keep an eye on the iconic
mini-tornado) occurred along the
flagpole to see which way the wind is
shoreline.
blowing, but says she is continuously amazed to “view the Rock’s beauty that changes by the hour” and “the
ing with the ebb and flow of summer
steady procession of life that passes
visitors,” says Lesley Mills, owner
my garden in all seasons.”
JJ RICHARDS (2)
multi-generational families co-exist-
34 Milford Living • Spring
TOM MACKIN
This is a “tightly knit community of
BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER
Bayview Beach
systems and improve storm
he recounts. “Great grandchil-
ing. “On hot, hot summer days,
Situated between Welch’s
preparedness.
dren still come from London
no one would use (or now
Point and Calf Pen Meadow
every summer.” His childhood
uses) the inside shower,” she
Creek, Bayview weathered
nity holds their annual Fourth
When the Bayview’s commu-
memories include “many
shares. “My dad would leave
much damage inflicted by
of July parade, David Culhane’s
summers lifeguarding, the
work from Waterbury and
Hurricanes Irene and Sandy.
entire family gathers at their
vegetable truck, and the Great
sleep on our porch. The cottage
Thankfully, federal grant
circa 1911 family cottage to
Hurricane of ’55.” Culhane’s
continues to be a huge meeting
projects are underway to
celebrate. “We were a family
sister Maureen Morris waxes
place; an important part of our
redesign low-lying drainage
of nine brothers and sisters,”
nostalgic about her upbring-
lives.”
2016 • Milford Living 35
TOM MACKIN
Cedar Beach
necticut, while the remainder
to be Myers Convenience Store
borhood of roughly 150 homes,”
In a 2002 report for the Milford
of the narrow beach is privately
on Seaview Ave. Now, he says,
he looks forward to the annual
Open Space and Conservation
owned.”
“after raising three kids here in
Fourth of July block party. “It’s
this peninsula-shaped neigh-
like Christmas in the summer.”
Commission, Bartley C. Block
“I’ve been here my whole
described Cedar Beach as,
life,” says Chis Saley. In fact, his
“The eastern portion of the
parents are lifetime residents.
sand spit” (comprising Milford
“Cedar Beach was once a differ-
Point) at the western end of the
ent world in the summertime…
shoreline. About 3000 feet in
a bustling place. We had The
extent, 800 feet of Cedar Beach
Adams Apple Bar right around
is owned by the state of Con-
110 Milford Point Rd. There used
Devon Both geographically and historically, the Village Of Devon is the true gateway to Milford. During the American Revolution, Liberty Rock was used as a lookout point by Minutemen watching for British invaders. More than 200 years later, many thousands of cars make their way across another landmark spanning the same section of the Housatonic River: The Washington (a.k.a. Devon) Bridge. Once known as Naugatuck Junction, Devon is now recognized for its decades-long revitalization project. The Devon Revitalization Committee successfully administrated close to $5 million in grants that went towards renovating brick sidewalks, lampposts, landscaping, lighting, traffic flow, and signage. This effort injected new verve into says Marty Hardiman. “What makes Devon unique is the small town atmosphere and that everyone knows everyone. We get involved to help make it nicer for all neighborhood residents. That’s the way it should be.”
36 Milford Living • Spring
SHERRY JOHNSON
village life. “I’ve been here a long time and watched this area grow,”
Milford’s Hamlets Explored Downtown: The Green
Historical Society and historic
Huffman say this section of
buildings, the Milford Fine Arts
Milford captures “the best of
The Downtown Milford
Center, and the tallest flagpole
both worlds. We walk our dog
Business Association’s website
in the State!”
down to Trumbull beach a few
With the harbor, library,
times a week, rain, snow, or
town: “Walk the second longest
Metro-North, shopping,
shine! And it’s so easy to walk
town Green in Connecticut,
services, and dining within a
to the Green for festivals and
alongside the harbor, Lisman
stone’s throw, it’s no wonder
for catching the train into NYC.
Landing, monuments, the
that homeowners like Kristin
When I was on Broadway, it was a safe walk home late at night and an easy commute to the city.” Another summertime benefit? “Being close to the JJ RICHARDS
Green for the Oyster Festival.”
Gulf Beach This beautiful sandy beach has an access pier for fishing, picnic areas, and restrooms. Visitors have a view
JJ RICHARDS
BILL CANFIELD
of Charles Island; there are parking lots for residents and non-residents. The Gulf Pond/Gulf Beach walk is popular with hikers and birders, with viewing platforms on both Gulf St. and Buckingham Ave. When Susan Patrick first moved here 18 years ago, she remembers, “The view really did take my breath away. My oldest child was five and we later raised four children here. We fell in love with the house first; then the neighborhood and community, which is very warm and welcoming.” Although the area seems “unchanged … almost caught in time,” she’s quite pleased with the sidewalk renewal project, spearheaded by the Mayor, which “really opened up the neighborhood.” Meanwhile, the view continues to inspire her. “Over the JJ RICHARDS
touts the benefits of this part of
years,” she states,” the sunsets off Gulf Beach never get old.”
2016 • Milford Living 37
BILL CANFIELD
BILL CANFIELD
Fort Trumbull Beach
nons that guarded the Fort now
Richard Smith, owner of
Fort Trumbull was built
sits on the grounds of Milford’s
the 7 Seas Restaurant & Pub,
and tea room on East Broadway,
overlooking Milford Harbor in
Chamber of Commerce.
has a family history with Fort
a gardener’s market, and
there was an ice cream parlor
1716. Subsequently, the site of
“As far as I’m concerned,
Trumbull Beach that goes back
at the end of our street was
the fort became home to the
this area offers the best of all
to the late 1800s. His ancestors
Houseman’s Pharmacy. The
Clapp House, a stately mansion
worlds because of its proxim-
“owned the Willard Hotel,” he
neighborhood once attracted
which overlooked the Harbor
ity to theater, harbor, and
explains, “and my grandparents
mostly New York City area
for 170 years. Although that
downtown,” says longtime Ft.
also owned Pilgrim Restaurant
renters; now the community is
structure was razed, one of can-
Trumbull resident Nell Moll.
on Seaside Ave. At one point
year-round.”
Laurel Beach Rich Smith is well-versed in Laurel Beach’s lore. “Designed by the famous architect Stanford White, it was planned in such a way as to provide water views from every street...and arranged around the center of our neighborhood, 5th Avenue Park. We also enjoy a bricked, ocean-side boardwalk that runs the length of the nine streets.” The Laurel Beach Association was chartered by the state in 1899 and is still going strong. Members are a close-knit group, many of whom—like Smith—possess multigenerational ties to the area. “My grandparents, like many New York families, would come to Laurel Beach to summer,” he says. “My parents moved us here in 1960 to live year-round. Many of my current neighbors are people I grew up with who, like me, moved back to Laurel Beach to raise their own families.” While most residents live here throughout the year, Smith points out that the Laurel Beach Community Center—known as The Casino—becomes the hub of social life during summer months. David J. DuRubeis, managing partner of Cody-White Funeral Service, fell in love with Laurel Beach upon moving here 15 years TOM MACKIN
ago. His favorite spot is the view from his balcony, “overlooking the
38 Milford Living • Spring
Wheeler Marsh, with its many species of birds, including Bald Eagles. It’s like watching a Natural Geographic special!” (Editor’s Note: this view graced the cover Milford Living’s 2010 Spring issue.)
Milford’s Hamlets Explored Morningside
Industrialist Henry G. Thompson named his sprawling summer estate “Morningside” due to its enviable location—perched high on a bluff overlooking the Sound facing the rising sun. Although the property was sold in the 1900s, eventually subdivided, and later developed into a yearBILL CANFIELD
round community for more than 200 families, today’s members of The Morningside Association are quick to tout the benefits of living near an elevated,
protects us from most storms,”
old and the new.” Examples of
gated stone entrance pillars
protected seawall. “When there’s
says Gary Johnson.
Victorian Morningside, such as
(former trolley stops) still flank
the carriage house and dairy
both entrances, and a recreation
flooding elsewhere in Milford
Johnson refers to his neigh-
we might have a few downed
borhood as, “a combination
barns, have been repurposed
area is maintained by the
trees, but our high elevation
tale of two cities; a blend of the
into residences. The previously
Association.
Naugatuck Gardens Woods and wetlands coexist here with the sprawling corporate complexes of Bic and Subway. The Mondo Ponds and the Beaver Brook Reservoir was used as part of the public water supply during the 1970s. Nowadays, nature lovers visit the 149 acre Mondo Park Nature Preserve and Education Center, which supplements the science curriculum at the adjacent JFK Elementary School. Barbara Morin has lived in the same Naugatuck Gardens two-story Colonial on a half-acre lot for 52 years. “I moved here before the school or Subway was built or Bic was in operation,” she says. “Those businesses have added a lot more traffic and many homes. Yet, it’s safe, convenient, and absolutely was a great place for my three children to grow up in, with the Milford Ice JJ RICHARDS
Pavilion up the street and fishing in Mondo Pond. People generally don’t move out of this neighborhood. They stay here for life.”
2016 • Milford Living 39
Walnut Beach Officially dedicated in 2011, the beautiful $1.5 million Boardwalk connecting Walnut Beach to Silver Sands State Park has become one the most popular attractions in the region. Featuring plenty of sand, a fishing pier, handicapped accessible walkways, stone jetties, and large parking lots, there is also plenty of shade and picnic tables at the Devon Rotary Pavilion. The Pavilion’s “Famous Summer Concert Series” and numerous arts events, festivals, parades, and JJ RICHARDS
celebrations (including this magazine’s Spring Kite Fly) are largely due to the coordinated efforts of the Walnut Beach Association. Members maintain a website and Facebook page and all events are “designed to beautify,
Point Beach
a lifetime of sweeping sand out of
Historic documents reveal the Pond
our living room,” says Tessa Marquis.
Point house of Miles Merwin was
“Point Beach is an old-fashioned
on the OTHER side,” states Brian Smith, referring to the
plundered by the British in 1776.
neighborhood, with individual
next beach over. “My family owned a grocery store,
Fast forward to the 1920s when
streets as sub-neighborhoods. It is
Smith Brothers Market.” Currently, Smith acts as DJ at
many new cottages were built along
the perfect spot to see all the Milford
the Thursday night summer parties on Broadway and
Point Beach Drive. In 2011 and 2012,
fireworks at once and every sunrise
Naugatuck Avenue. “I wonder how many realize they
Hurricanes Irene and Sandy caused
of the year. People are so friendly
are dancing where the floor of the old Pier III Pub used
major flooding, prompting residents
that they help take out and put away
to be?” he muses. “Every square foot of the neighbor-
to raise their homes, reinforce
your garbage cans if you forget or are
hood has a history as rich as any spot on the Jersey
foundations, or rebuild.
out of town. We have house parties,
Shore...hotels and hot dog stands and gin joints and
“I chose this neighborhood
enhance, and promote” this revitalized neighborhood. “I grew up in the Wildermere Beach neighborhood
beach parties, and the Point Beach
candy stores...now coming back as an artsy neighbor-
because of the great Long Island
Association keeps the Shoreline and
hood with pizza and ice cream, surf boards, and the
Sound view without dooming me to
Access points clean and safe.”
beach itself—just waiting for the next new generation
JJ RICHARDS
to discover it again.”
40 Milford Living • Spring
Milford’s Hamlets Explored Wheelers Farms
When Joseph Wheeler settled the area north of the Post Road in 1705, like other early Milford settlers, he came specifically to farm the land. “This was all farm country at one time,” says Anthony Allen of Filanowski & Sons. “My father-in-law, Mark Filanowki’s parents, came from Poland in the late 1800s, met, married, and started the farm. Mark later acquired the farm, built the greenhouse, and expanded the business.” Up until the 1950s, agriculture was the predominant SHERRY JOHNSON
livelihood in the neighborhood. Now, Filanowski’s is “one of the last remaining farms.” The area stretches to the Orange border and includes Glendale
ground covers, and seasonal
boarding, training, lessons, day
campus of Boys & Girls Village,
Farms, which does a thriving
ornaments, and Spring Mead-
camp, therapeutic riding, and
founded in1942, is also located
business in annuals, vegetables,
ows Horse Farm which offers
leasing programs. The main
on Wheelers Farms Rd.
governors, prominent business-
and landmarks include Anchor
summer beach cottages are now
ing tours with Michael Krauss
men, newspaper publishers, and
and Crescent beaches, Merwin’s
gone, or changed so much that
that are based upon her 2007
others flocked to Woodmont,
Point, Signal and Potato Rocks,
you wouldn’t recognize them,”
book, Woodmont On the Sound.
including Albert Einstein who
the Umbrella Tree, Robert Treat
says Woodmonter Ardienne
“From the 1880s until World
stayed at the Woodmont Lodge.”
Farm, and Scribners Restaurant,
Damicis, she’s ceaselessly
War II, it was a popular summer
Theatre magnate Sylvester Poli
located in the former Peterson’s
enthusiastic about the simple
vacation spot with many large,
hosted many famous actors and
Market and Clark-Hall hardware
pleasures, including “Wood-
fashionable hotels and inns,”
actresses in his Italianate Villa
store.
mont Day, swimming, and the
she says. “Well-known mayors,
Rosa Poli Mansion. Other sights
Woodmont Woodmont was incorporated as a borough of Milford in 1903. A trolley once provided direct
popularity as a bustling beach resort for residents of New Haven, Bridgeport, and beyond. Katie Murphy leads area walk-
KATIE MURPHY
This helped foster this area’s
KATIE MURPHY
service to and from New Haven.
“Although most of the
ever-beautiful beach.”
2016 • Milford Living 41
on the water wreak havoc with all of the materials on your boat,” says Buda. “Check all thru-hull fittings; they get brittle over time and can fail, but they are easily replaced. If you have a stern drive or inboard/outboard, check the bellows that separates the water from the transom. When the rubber isn’t being used, the natural oils in the rubber aren’t distributed throughout and it will dry out and crack. The same with the tires on your trailer.” As Buda warns, “Failure of any thru-hull fitting can sink you.”
Top it Off Fluid checks can be done by anyone says Buda. “Check the oil and antifreeze if applicable. SUSAN CARROLL DWYER
Hopefully you added fuel stabilizer when you
Ship Shape
W
arm spring breezes wake us from our winter slumber, kids play in yards, and gardeners clear their beds for planting. To all the Milford mariners, the boating season is here and the Sound beckons. The freezing temps of the past few months effectively put the kybosh on water activities (with the exception of the hardy souls working the local shell fishing vessels and the ardent sailors of the Frostbiters Club.) Most seafaring folk spent their winter days dreaming of the salty air and the ocean spray. Though tempting as that first favorable day is to dip your boat into the water, there is work to be done to ensure a seaworthy summer.
winterized your boat. Marine engines weren’t designed for gas with Ethanol and at different temps it can cause moisture to build up in your tank causing corrosion. Change your fuel filter and oil filter regularly.”
Get into “the Works” Pumps and gauges may seem ambitious for some, but a glance at your manual can help you through specifics. “Water pumps generally last about two years,” says Buda. “Thermostats last longer, but when they go, they go. Both parts are cheap and usually easy to access, and definitely worth doing. A water pump or thermostat failure can be catastrophic for your engine…and your wallet.” So it makes sense to learn how to master them. “Most manuals are available online and are worth purchasing.
Milford native Paul Buda acquired his first
a seasoned boater or a naïve novice, these
boat at the age of 13 and has owned more
helpful hints will serve you well for the
than 30 boats over the years. He has attained
summer season to come.
the U.S. Coast Guard’s Master Captain’s
Keeping one on board may save you a tow in.”
Say No to Bargain Electric Electrical issues are very common in boats since
license to operate vessels of 100 tons. Buda
First Things First
has encountered all variety of boating
“Pull the cover off and inspect the boat overall
use off-the-shelf connectors from home stores,”
breakdowns and mishaps, so whether you’re
for any obvious damage. Cold temperatures can
insists Buda. “The few extra bucks on marine-
42 Milford Living • Spring
salt water can corrode any connection. “Never
“
Zincs absorb electrical current in the water which is destructive to steel and aluminum. It is a ‘less noble’ metal, which means it’s softer and degrades rather than the key components, becoming pitted and pocked. Change them every season.
”
grade electrical parts is money well spent not to
Grease is the Word!
the difference on the water. Sacrificial zinc
get stuck halfway to Port Jeff,” he laughs. While
“Grease everything! All fittings; steering,
anodes help tremendously. “Zincs absorb
you’re at it, “Check the spark plugs and wires as
shift cables, throttle cables, anything that
electrical current in the water which is
well.” Also, have your battery tested; any auto
moves—grease it!”
destructive to steel and aluminum,” explains
store will do it. “Even though they may work,
Buda. “It is a ‘less noble’ metal, which means
a simple test can give you an idea how many
Check your Zincs
more hours it has left. Clean corrosion off all
Not just mechanics and electronics, boats
components, becoming pitted and pocked.
connections when installing.”
also rely on chemistry. Metals can make all
Change them every season.”
Milford Yacht Club
it’s softer and degrades rather than the key
“Not your grandfather’s club”
The Milford YachT club where friendship and memories are made “The waTer awaiTs”
The Milford Yacht Club offers exclusive access to the most spectacular spot in the area. Membership benefits include:
• Uninterrupted vistas of both the vibrant Milford Harbor and the serene Long Island Sound from every part of the club. • Use of our marina located right at the mouth of the harbor, which means immediate access to open water. • Our pool pavilion with Olympic-sized and kiddie pools, lounge chairs, snack bar and views of the marina • Harborside decks for dining, socializing and 131relaxing. Trumbull Avenue 203-783-0060 www.milfordyachtclub.com • Sailing programs for adults and children, and children’s swimming programs. • Memories for a lifetime with the MYC family.
Join now to take advantage of our special initiation fee discount for the spring. Please contact office@milfordyachtclub.com or (203)783-0060
131 Trumbull Avenue 230-783-0060 www.milfordyachtclub.com 2016 • Milford Living 43
on the water Milford native and long-time boater Paul Buda gladly offers advice
Paint Your Bottom
on staying seaworthy.
“Keep up on your bottom paint,” advises Buda. “It may not need a full coat every year, but touchup where it’s needed. The paint contains copper and sloughs off as algae and ?
barnacles attach to the hull. Outdrive paint is different and contains a biocide to reduce adhesions. Drag is reduced when the hull and outdrive are kept free of hitchhikers.”
Exhaust-ing Risers and manifolds are parts of the exhaust
testing can save you a blown motor. “Failure
system that need to be replaced every
of the risers and manifolds allow water to
6-7 years according to Buda. An annual
leak into the engine, more often than not
inspection by a mechanic for compression
cause a catastrophic failure.”
Odds & Ends • Boats that have water tanks require flushing, their filters replaced and refilled. • If you trailer your boat, grease the wheel
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“
around 50-100 hours per season. Hours are akin
Keep up on your bottom paint. It may not need a full coat every year, but touchup where it’s needed.
to mileage in cars. The more hours, the more attention is needed. It’s imperative that you
”
know your vessel inside and out to avoid peril. A bit of preventative maintenance can help you enjoy a season without calling for a tow in. It may seem like a lot of work, but any boater
bearings. Dipping them into salt water
sure you comply with Coast Guard safety
will tell you that watching the sunset while
corrodes them quickly. “Test your signal
equipment requirements. The Coast Guard
anchored by Charles Island is well worth it.
lights, winch, and rollers regularly during
Auxiliary offers free safety checks.”
—Susan Carroll Dwyer
the season,” says Buda. “Also, make sure
• Be sure to check the dates on your flares.
your tire pressure is correct.”
• “It isn’t required, but keep a first aid kit
• Buda recommends having a checklist before heading out. “Test all the systems
onboard—it just makes sense.” • Last but not least, the most important
before you head out of the harbor: lights,
advice: “Make sure the drain plug is in!”
navigation electronics, marine radio. Be
Typically active boaters will use their boats
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203 878-2619 2016 • Milford Living 45
milford green whole community.” And it seems that some of Mackenzie’s efforts are taking hold; last year Mackenzie’s Beach Clean Up had its highest number of volunteers but ironically found the least amount of garbage—especially large discarded items like old tires and appliances. “And that’s a good thing!” Mackenzie says. According to her dad, John, the boardwalk from Silver Sands to Walnut Beach seems to
Hands In for Mother Earth: Our Mess to Clean
W
hen she was four years old Mackenzie Powers saw a commercial on her favorite television channel, Nick, Jr. that showed a young girl cleaning up the beach, throwing away garbage, and separating recyclables. The next time Mackenzie and her family went to their favorite summer spot, Walnut Beach, she told her parents that she wanted to clean the beach, too. “It took a few tries to convince my parents I was serious,” Mackenzie says, “but eventually they listened.” That spunky initiative led to what is now known as “Mackenzie’s Beach Clean Up,” currently in its eighth year and going strong.
have helped. “People are using the boardwalk and I think they are seeing the area in a new way, with more respect for it as a natural resource we need to take care of.”
Environmental Exercise Mackenzie’s Beach Clean Up is just one of Milford’s many environmental projects that invite community participation. According to Steven Johnson, Milford’s Open Space and Natural Resource agent, the city is working on a number of different fronts to preserve and care for Milford’s natural resources. The city’s beloved coastline is one important area of concern, so coastal resiliency is at the heart of a number of grants and revitalization projects, both new and ongoing. Using a grant from the Connecticut Institute for Resilience
saying, “We have one goal; to clean
and Climate Adaption (CIRCA), one
Association and focused solely on Walnut Beach,
all the beaches of Milford on the
project will restore a portion of a
Mackenzie’s Beach Clean Up has expanded to
same day! So far we have three!
include the beaches at Silver Sands State Park
I hope it gets bigger and better
and Gulf Beach, and has the support of the
every year!”
Walnut Beach Creamery, Spectrum, Home Depot
Now 12-years old,
dune near the fishing pier at Walnut Beach. The plan is to kill invasive vegetation with herbicides and then replant the dune
of Stratford, and Dunkin’ Donuts. The event is
Mackenzie says, “Even
held annually from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
though the beach is special
on the first Saturday in May in order to take
to me, I don’t want to
advantage of the city’s bulk pick-up. Volunteers
be known just as the
come out to help with this
can check-in and pick up supplies at stations set
beach clean-up girl,”
replanting,” Johnson
up at Silver Sands and Walnut Beach. Last year
she says. “I want to be
more than 150 participants came out to help.
known as a person who
Mackenzie is thrilled at the continued response,
is doing good for the
46 Milford Living • Spring
with native beach grass. “Hopefully in March or early April the community will
says. Mayor Ben Blake also cited a number of
COURESY OF MACKENZIE’S BEACH CLEAN UP (3)
Initially sponsored by the Walnut Beach
Though only 12-years old, other city projects related to coastal resiliency,
MacKenzie Powers began
including grants focused on analyzing and
cleaning Milford beaches
mitigating the shoreline’s erosion, developing
eight years ago.
initiatives for dealing with climate change, repairing and reconstructing essential seawalls, dealing with invasive phragmite, managing water flow, and mosquito reduction. In addition to its lengthy and enviable coastline, Milford is also home to considerable inland open space. A 100-acre parcel off of West River Street known as the Solomon Woods Property is, according to
and the city is currently working to demolish
rebuilt with funds from a state grant. At
Johnson, “a beautiful natural woodland and
old buildings there.
Wilcox Park there are a number of on-going
wetland area good for passive walking and
Other inland areas under management by
hiking and good for wildlife.” The property is
the city include the Beaver Brook boardwalk,
important from a conservation standpoint,
which was destroyed in a fire and is being
improvement projects underway. Last May, Milford was awarded a state grant through DEEP to fund an electric vehicle (EV)
We’re Extra-Sensitive With Our Young Patients • Pediatric Dentistry • Routine Cleanings • Tooth Brushing & Flossing Lessons • Emergency Oral Care • Infants, Toddlers & Tweens
55 Old Gate Lane, Milford, CT • 203-878-6699 • SensitiveCare.net 2016 • Milford Living 47
milford green charging station, which is now up and running behind the Milford Public Library. And this past September, Mayor Blake announced the formation of a Recycling Task Force charged with educating the public about recycling. renegotiated so that now, instead of paying for recycling, we actually receive $20 per ton for our recyclables,” he explained at the time. In order for this to work, though, “We have to recycle appropriately,” said Blake. “This important effort
Girl Scout Troop 38305 has adopted an area of Wilcox Park
starts with the individual knowing what we can
where they replace invasive plants with native vegetation
and cannot put in the recycle bin.”
and pollinator-friendly flowers.
A Day for Plants and Parks
community involvement. The Earth Day
pillars at Wilcox Park, and Johnson says they
Earth Day this spring will be Friday, April
Committee hopes to complete the plantings
will be looking for private and corporate
22, and a number of initiatives will call for
that were begun last year near the stone
donors as well as hands-on volunteers. Also,
“IF yOU Need IT qUICK CALL RiCk”
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Rick Jurzyk
1050 Bridgeport Ave., Milford
CT Lic # P1-204379 Fax: 203-877-0818
www.RAinMAkeRCT.CoM
203-876-2700
COURTESY OF GIRL SCOUT TROUP 38305
“Two years ago our recycling contract was
teams of volunteers led by student interns from the Academy High School will continue removing invasive shrubs and plants that are taking over some of the park and reducing biodiversity. The hope is to restore that biodiversity by planting native trees and shrubs such as dogwoods and winterberries. A number of organizations have joined the call to participate in Earth Day events. For example, Girl Scout Troop 38305, led by Mary
“
We have to recycle appropriately. This important effort starts with the individual knowing what we can and cannot put in the recycle bin.
”
Tesla and Diana Robert, has adopted an area of Wilcox Park where they’ve been replacing invasive plants with native vegetation and pollinator-friendly flowers. Also, the Milford National Lou Gehrig Little League has expressed an interest in having league members pitch in to remove litter from Fowler Field.
Earth Day Committee’s Vin Piselli said, “For the past 10 years, Milford Earth Day has educated volunteers on conservation and inspired them to make a difference in their own yards. In recent years volunteers learned by restoring habitats with native plant communities at Eisenhower Park and Wilcox Park. Earth Day begins at home and we are grateful for all the past financial support, committee members, volunteers, and the chance to make a difference in Milford.” —Nancy Herman
MACKENZIE’S BEACH CLEAN UP will be held this year on Saturday, May 7. Interested
volunteers for Milford’s Recycling Task Force should call Jenna Lessons in Milford’s Community Development office at 203-783-3230. To volunteer for Earth Day events, call the Mayor’s office at 203-783-3201, or the office of Steven Johnson at 201-878-7812.
Celebrating our 30 th Anniversary!
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2016 • Milford Living 49
education notebook
Water Works T
he Milford shoreline, being the longest of any town in Connecticut, offers many opportunities for youth and families to engage in an array of activities that are both educational and fun. Whether it’s a spur of the moment walk along the Silver Sands Boardwalk, a bike ride along Gulf Beach, or enrolling in any number of organized programs offered throughout town, there is something to satisfy many different interests. Start with a visit to Milford’s Recreation Department website (www. milfordrecreation.com). There you will find activities ranging from a Bird Identification Camp along the trails and saltmarshes surrounding the Gulf Pond PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOOT & PADDLE AND MILFORD YACHT CLUB
area, to exploration at Anchor Beach with Little Scientists, to the Marine Biology or Long Island Sound Science Camps that focus on identification of local marine life and habitats, the history of Charles Island, pirate lore, and more. If exercise is more your thing, look for the Beach Volleyball Clinic for Children or the Zumba and Hatha Yoga programs, all of which meet along the shore. Look towards the bottom of the Recreation Department home page for another hidden gem—a link to the Milford Favorite Walks booklet compiled by the Environmental Concerns Coalition. The booklet includes
one-hour group or private paddleboard
21 favorite walks around town as well as
lessons are offered featuring on-shore and
places to launch a kayak or canoe along our
in-the-water instruction on how to paddle,
beautiful waterways. Many of the walking
shop tucked into the corner of Walnut Beach
how to stand, how to re-board, and more.
routes are bicycle friendly. You can also map
at the intersection of Naugatuck Avenue
Watch for the 2nd Annual Charles Island
out your own scenic route along the shore
and Broadway. Here, owner Tina Pritchard
SUP Cup Race on June 19, billed as a family-
using the East Coast Greenway Trip Planner
offers rentals of bicycles, scooters, single and
friendly, full day beach party event for all
at www.map.greenway.org. The planner will
tandem kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards,
ages! Scoot and Paddle will re-open for the
generate turn-by-turn directions that can be
including basic instructions on their
season on May 1st and is open seven days
printed or saved as a PDF or GPX file.
use. “Our kayaks and paddleboards are
a week during the summer. Find them at
versatile, easy to get back on, self-bailing,
www.scootandpaddle.com.
If you don’t own your own equipment, make a stop at Scoot and Paddle, a small
50 Milford Living • Spring
and unsinkable,” she explains. In addition,
For more intense boating instruction,
the Milford Yacht Club offers a seven-week
teach a love for the sport and to make the
through the 840-acre Charles E. Wheeler
Junior Sailing Program for both members
participants sailors for life. Younger children
Salt Marsh on a guided canoe or kayak tour.
and non-members, ages 6-18. While an
are acclimated to the water on an OPTIMUS
The Center’s full or half-day state certified
additional fee applies to non-members, Bruce
sailboat with its single sail and simple
camp boasts low staff-to-camper ratios and
Scull, volunteer coordinator of the program,
design—one of the easiest boats on which
provides numerous programs with hands-on
compares the total cost to that paid for
to teach children to sail. Children transition
activities taught by professional educators
summer camps and other activities children
to a larger boat with age and experience.
and naturalists. For details visit the center at
often participate in. The program begins
You can find more information at www.
www.ctaudubon.org; click on “Locations” to
in mid-to-late June and culminates with
milfordyachtclub.com.
find “Coastal Center at Milford Point.”
the Milford OPTI Regatta, which includes
Another option for organized activities
So, as the warmer weather of spring and
participation by 120-140 children from
is the Coastal Center at Milford Point and
summer arrives, make a plan to get outside
various yacht clubs along Long Island Sound.
its adjacent Smith-Hubbell Wildlife Refuge
with the family, enjoy the area’s greenways,
The full day event runs up to seven races and
and Bird Sanctuary, part of the Connecticut
beautiful landscapes, and nature habitats,
includes lunch, donated by Subway, delivered
Audubon Society. Here you can choose
and take advantage of all the Milford
right to the participants on the water. The
from a variety of camps for children ages
shoreline has to offer.
goal of the Junior Sailing Program is to
3-15, or plan a day with the family winding
—Susan Glennon
ENTRANCE EXAM Open to all 7th grade girls For 9th Grade Admission
n
Saturday, May 7 8:00 am
Lauralton Hall founded by the sisters of mercy
Register online at www.LauraltonHall.org or call 203.877.2786 scholarships & financial aid available 200 High Street Milford, CT
2016 • Milford Living 51
sunday drive
The Lyman Allyn Art Museum W
CHRISTOPHER CARVETH
haling in the 19th century posed risks to all who ventured beyond the safety of sheltered New England harbors. One such 21-year old captain could be forgiven if he did not imagine at the time that his perilous voyages would spawn a successful business career in banking, insurance, transportation, and, indirectly, the establishment of a beautiful New London museum bearing his name. Such is the case at the Lyman Allyn Art Museum in picturesque New London, an easy one hour drive from Milford, conveniently off I-95.
A Lady of the Twenties, Anna Coleman Ladd, 20th century, bronze
The museum offers a wide range of paint-
neo-classical structure housing over 15,000
familiarity with eastern Connecticut coastal
ings, prints, photographs, sculpture, nautical
items with a particular focus on American art
area attractions such as Mystic Seaport and
models, furniture, and decorative arts.
from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Miss
Aquarium, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and
From its founding in 1926 as a bequest from
Allyn’s testamentary intention was to create
the USSN Nautilus at the U.S. Navy Submarine
Miss Harriett Upson Allyn, Captain Allyn’s
a park-like setting as well as the museum
Base in Groton. But visitors should take the
youngest daughter (1840-1926), the museum
structure, and in this sense her foresight has
time to explore this gem of a tranquil reposi-
has grown from no land or building and a
paid handsome dividends.
tory of beautiful portraiture, impressionism,
modest collection of 19 pieces to a beautiful
52 Milford Living • Spring
Milford area visitors may have more
and modern art. The professional staff
THE LYMAN ALLYN ART MUSEUM members are welcoming to first time and repeat visitors and are always available to answer a question, assist in a research project, or share the love of art that makes a piece come alive. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum offers a wide variety of seasonal special exhibitions ranging from one-artist retrospectives
625 Williams Street, New London CT 06320 860.443.2545 www.lymanallyn.org Open Tues-Sat 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Closed Monday and major holidays Admission (sliding scale) charged except on monthly first Saturdays and active duty military personnel. Free parking.
View of the permanent American Stories exhibit in the Palmer Galleries
to programs dedicated to a style or movement. Cognizant of its role in the community and recognizing that a love of art needs nurturing
CHRISTOPHER CARVETH
from a young age, tours are made available to
offered to organized student tours coming
small and large school groups and a “Yellow
from all over the state of Connecticut. There is
Bus Fund” of subsidized transportation is
a personal connection to this effort: Captain
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HAmBuRGERs & HOTDOGs • 5oz.Angus Burgers, Veggie & Hummel Hot Dogs $16.95 Per Person G/F ROLLS • Add BBQ Chicken $2/Person Add Boneless Breast $3/Person Add Pulled Smoked Pork $3.00 /Person • Grilled Boneless Texicali Chicken & Ribs $23.95 Per Person • Grilled Surf & Turf Swordfish & Sirloin Steaks $32.95 Per Person With Filet Mignon $35.95 Per Person
A detailed listing of additional hor’s d’oeurves, and other entrées, sides, stations available on our full catering menu. 2016 • Milford Living 53
sunday drive ings. Whether photographs and paintings from
led to his founding a New London school for
the oceanographic explorer Dr. Robert Ballard’s
boys in 1817. Adult and special interest group
collection (displayed publicly for the first time
tours are welcomed. The museum offers many
at the museum), to a photographic tribute to
special programs, participates with scouting
the great jazz artists of the 20th century, to the
groups, and offers participation opportunities
May-September 2016 tribute to the naturalist
to interns and docents. The museum’s library
artist J. Alden Weir, the offerings at the Lyman
and auditorium may be rented for private
Allyn reflect the diversity of art that appeals to
personal and corporate events, adding an
so many people. With reasonable daily admis-
elegant touch to a celebration among the gal-
sion, membership opportunities for patrons
leries. The building features a full professional
and frequent visitors, a museum café, and
kitchen making the outside caterer’s job much
many “hands on” participation opportunities
easier in presentation.
for young and old, this is one venue not to miss
Nantucket Sleigh Ride, Thomas F. Peterson,
in the New London area.
1924, Oil on Canvas, long term loan from Mystic
Upcoming exhibitions and “Sunday Salons” reflect the breadth of the Lyman Allyn’s offer-
—Christopher Carveth
CHRISTOPHER CARVETH
Allyn knew the value of education, which
Seaport Museum
MILFORD CEMETERY ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 227 / 35 Gulf Street
Milford, Ct. 06460
203-874-8998
Milford Cemetery
With entrances located on both Gulf Street & Cherry Street, Milford Cemetery offers interment space for traditional full and cremation interments. This historic location is enriched by burials of governors, frontiersmen, clergy, industrialists, soldiers, pioneers and local citizenry.
King’s Highway Cemetery
With two entrances on Cherry Street, King’s Highway Cemetery offers traditional full and companion interments, cremation in-ground burials and inurnments at our Columbarium Wall. In addition to grave sales and interments Milford Cemetery Association’s services include: Monument and Marker Sales and Inscriptions • Power Washing ~ Grave Beautification Services
Please contact us at 203-874-8998 / E-MAIL milfordcemetery@AOL.COM 54 Milford Living • Spring
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203-799-3937
10 Annual th
KITE FLY
May 7th • 12 - 3pm At Beautiful Walnut Beach
The Milford Living Kite Fly has become a rite of spring with friends and families looking skyward as their kites go aloft. The Connectikiters will be there flying their spectacular kites. Pack a picnic lunch and join us!! The Milford Living annual Kite Fly is a FREE fun filled event for people of all ages.
We hope to see you there!
milfordliving.com
203.283.5290 2016 • Milford Living 55
historical perspective had no bell. The old Common House became a guard quarters and eventually a warehouse. In time, the First Meetinghouse site (a replacement building built in 1734 was burned down due to drunken British soldiers during the winter of 1757-58, and again in 1760—at a cost of 50 pounds) was turned over to the Methodist Church when town duties were moved to the site of the
A Town Hall for the Ages A
town hall is more than a building; it’s the center and foundation for a community. Such was the case for Milford’s first meetinghouse, which was located on a shallow hill near the corner of Broad and River Streets at approximately the site of today’s Bistro Basque. On November 24, 1640 the original town settlers directed the five judges of Milford “to set out a meeting house thirty feet square, after such manner as they should judge most convenient for the public good.”
CATHY LEITE
current Town Hall triangle flanked by the Wepawaug and the two River Streets. Prior to the relocation, a small schoolhouse to the west and the old Baptist Church on the east occupied the site. About 1832 these two small buildings were joined together by a grand, two-story colonnaded structure. City business was carried out on the first floor; the school occupied the west end and the second floor, the town clerk and the records vault was in the old Baptist Church, while the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) rooms were on the second floor center. On February 18, 1915 it was all lost when a fire broke out. As the town’s first fire truck—a 1910 model—pulled up, gentlemen of the Milford Club meeting above the drug store on River Street were prying open the fire The original post-and-beam “common house” was prefabricated in New Haven,
lever broke and they fell into a mud puddle.
circa 1641, and shipped to Milford where it
They survived but the building didn’t.
was assembled. It was soon too small for
56 Milford Living • Spring
hydrant. Pushing the wrong way, their
Shortly after the fire, a design was
all its duties. Town and church services
called for to replace the heart of Milford.
moved nearby in 1645 to a square “East
A Federal-style single floor structure was
Towne House” two stories high with a
chosen and its cornerstone laid in June
sharp roof and, on the top, a turret where
1916 and completed in the fall of 1917.
a sentry could stand and look out for
The beauty of the location was enhanced
Indians and where a drum was beat to call
as the mills and stables situated on the
people together for Sabbaths and town
Wepawaug River had in recent years been
meeting days. Though serving both sacred
torn down. It was, upon completion, one of
and secular duty the first meetinghouse
the most scenic town halls anywhere.
Built of red brick with
similar gun stands in East Haven
contrasting white decorative
today; Milford’s was lost to a
moldings and large columns
WWII scrap drive).
in front and an impressive
Upon completion, the town
gold-leafed dome on its spire,
clerk offices occupied the west
it had the innate balance of
side of the building as the
Federalist design without the
school was moved to the new
heaviness of Georgian or baroque
“Yellow Brick Building” on
touches often found in other civic buildings of the day. During construction, the Giant Rodman
(Top) Before Milford was a city, the
Gun that stood before the hall
Town Hall was an elegant collonaded
(approximately where the WWI
structure that grew from humble be-
memorial stands now) was
ginnings. (Bottom) City Hall, shortly
moved to the Milford Green. (A
after completion in 1917.
2016 • Milford Living 57
historical perspective the hill to the west (today the River Park Apartments). The administration took
force was also located here for a time. People still came to the town hall to pay
the east side though no mayor occupied
their taxes until June 1982 when a massive
the building until 1959. The central
storm dumped over 12 inches of rain in just
meeting hall had plenty of room for the
a few hours (the storm was the worst since
earlier representative town government
the late 1800s.) Tax records were lifted up
to meet with a semi-circular balcony for
and bills were plastered to the iron fencing
the overflow. A stage was available for
in front of St. Peter’s Church. Taxpayer
displays of civic acting, musical talent, and
joy was, unfortunately, short-lived. After
oratory. A clock tower of equally elegant
the flood most of the municipal activity
design capped the building with a gold
was moved from the Town Hall to the
dome. Underneath, the tax collector held
re-purposed Milford High School, now the
sway on the west side and public works
Parson Complex, named for city treasurer
operated out of the east where a basement
Thomas Parson. Only the mayor’s offices
level entrance still stands. The small police
and city attorney remain in City Hall.
The location underwent a serious upgrade and rehabilitation during the 1980s. Intricate carvings were restored to natural
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wood finishes. Paintings and photos adorn
the 911 memorial for Americans from
the walls highlighting Milford scenes
Milford who lost their lives to terrorism.
and past “worthy citizens.” The grounds
In 2013-15 the roofing and clock tower
around the City Hall house some poignant
were extensively refit although the battle
messages as well; a small garden in the
to keep the clock running on time has
back overlooking the river memorializes
been fought for many, many years (at its
people whose contributions made them
worst, it was still always right at least
“Milford’s treasures.” Memories too are
twice a day.)
kept by the WWI soldier who will forever
This year’s celebration of the building’s
stride across the City Hall front lawn and
100th anniversary began in February with a bonfire that paid homage to the blaze that destroyed the previous building. Additional
Much of Milford’s historical records were
family-friendly events are planned for the
lost in the fire of February 18, 1915 that
big anniversary on June 17, 2016.
destroyed the Milford Town Hall.
—Joseph B. Barnes, Esq.
“Show me the manner in which a nation cares for its dead and I will measure with mathematical exactness the tender mercies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land and their loyalty to high ideals.” – William Ewart Gladstonr, Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
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2016 • Milford Living 59
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Hands On Science Summer Camps since 1983 • Bird Identification Camp June 20-24
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expressions
Ever Blooming When I pass by Daniel & River Streets, this large beautiful piece of art reminds me that’s it’s always spring in Milford. Every time I see it, it makes me smile. It’s especially beautiful when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom! Photographer: Sherry Johnson Location: Café Atlantique Artist: Loren Costantini
62 Milford Living • Spring
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2015 • Milford Living 63
?
where is it?
Answer to last issue’s quiz:
The three-span stone arch bridge that spans over the Wepawaug River is known as the Jefferson Bridge.
Do you know the answer to this issue’s Where is It?
Send us your answer at: suzanne@milfordliving.com
Want your very own Milford Living t-shirt?
ANN MCGUIRE
Send your answer to this issue’s Where is It? (along with your name and address) to: suzanne@milfordliving.com Two lucky winners will be chosen at random.
Law Offices of Christopher B. Carveth, LLC Christopher B. Carveth & Kristin Dorney Foley Attorneys & Counselors at Law
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Carveth & Foley
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Attorneys at Law
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Tel. 203-882-7244 | Fax. 203-877-3970 |P.O. Box 152 | 26 Cherry Street Milford CT 06460
Christopher B. Carveth & Kristin D. Foley Law Offices Of Christopher B. Carveth, LLC We offer extended hours, home consultations and weekend appointments to best serve you.
• personal injury • workers compensation • FACEBOOK AT CARVETH LAW
• family, probate & criminal • real estate and zoning law • WWW.CARVETH LAW.COM
Tel. 203-882-7244 | Fax. 203-877-3970 |P.O. Box 152 | 26 Cherry Street Milford CT 06460 64 Milford Living • Spring
PHYSICAL THERAPY & SPORTS MEDICINE OF MILFORD
IT’S ALL ABOUT RESULTS Prolete Physical Therapy specializes in: • • • •
Orthopaedic injuries • Sports injuries Orthodic fabrication • Arthritis pain Neck and back injuries • Neurological pain Functional movement and mobility assessments
Dr. Steigbigel specializes in orthopaedic manual medicine. Known throughout the region as the practitioner who can solve complicated cases from the acute to chronic, as well as those previously unresolved. His physician colleagues refer to him as the Doctor’s, Doctor. Dr. Steigbigel and his staff focus on identifying the root problem causing the symptoms. This method results in long term pain relief for the patient.
PROLETEPT.cOm Prolete Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine of Milford 247 Broad Street, Suite 3 - milford, cT
(203)-693-3754