Summer 2020 Vol. 17 Issue 2 $5.99
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Vivennie Blackwood
Lydia Lucas
Karla Franzman
The Talmadge Wall Group
Dave Brewster Dorothy and Elizabeth Schildgen
Yadira McLaughlin
Alicia Hale
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Robert Lamparski Aurelia Michelson
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Feature
26
34
Grown in Milford
A trio of family farms continue to bloom and grow. By Makayla Silva
Milford Beach Names
Can you name every beach in Milford? By Cindy Papish Gerber
Departments 4 6 8 12 16 20 22 40 42 44 46 48 52 54 56
Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters Milford Spotlight Around Town At Home At your Service Milford Morsels This Season Education Notebook Historical Perspective Milford Attic Congratulations Greetings From Milford Expressions Where is It?
About the cover: A summer view of the Milford Harbor. Photo by Cathy Leite. View more of Cathy’s work by visiting: cathyleitephotography.com
2020 • Milford Living 1
SUMMER 2020 VOLUME 17 • ISSUE 2 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill Suzanne@milfordliving.com
Editorial Director Ann McGuire
Art Director Ryan Swanson
Associate Publisher Susan Carroll-Dwyer
Advertising Director Joy Haines
Account Executive Mary Jo Downs
Contributing Photographers
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Contributing Editors
Tracy Farricker, McKenzie Granata
Contributing Writers
Angela Arpino, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Bryan Creevy, Susan Glennon, Judy Goldwyn,Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Marilyn May, Cindy Papish Gerber, Makayla Silva
Production Manager
It takes a local business owner to protect one.
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Production Assistance Kevin Maher, Todd Manning, Tamara Simpson
Web Design Mario Recupido
Interns
What we write gets read.
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Milford Living Magazine 162 Bridgeport Avenue Milford CT 06460 203-283-5290 http://www.milfordliving.com
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 2003-2020 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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2 Milford Living • Summer
Printed in the USA. www.redmatpublishing.com
Charlene Allen
Kathy Anderson
Eileen Barrett
Danielle Blumner
Sandy Burnell
Leila Chaucer
Peter Chapman
Noreen Daniells
Judie DiFranco
Sue DuBrow
Kelly Durrschmidt
Lisa English
Sarah Ferrante
Sonia Grant
Robin Helburn
Kelly Hill
Marilyn Hurteau
Ruth Korpita
Janet Lengel
Beth Lopez
Lorraine Luzietti
Debi McGinley
Len Nicoletti
Lorna Nichols
Barbara Oliver
Pete Peterson
Luke Porto
Christine Shaw
Jill Shaw
Phyllis Sochrin
Victoria Stillings
Donna Tartagni
Linda Wilson
Colleen Zacarelli
Barbara Zink
(203) 878-7424 • www.coldwellbankerhomes.com • 171 N. Broad Street *Based on SmartMLS data for single family/condo listing closed in Milford 2001-2019
publisher’s letter Dear Friends and Neighbors,
COMMITTED TO James E. Pucci, D.M.D. ted Top Dentist - Fairfield Living EXCELLENCE Periodontics & Dental Implants
Welcome to the summer issue of Milford Living; we are so glad to be here with you.
ni P. Edirisinghe, D.M.D.
The last few months have been challenging for all of us, but
we’re part of an incredibly kind community who came together by
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53 Cherry St. (Harmony Milford CT 06460 Growing in FaithPlace), & Knowledge
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E Pre Nurturing the in K - 8 education ahearts safe, spiritual, and minds and academically of little learners for challenging over 32 years. environment.
Growing in Faith & Knowledge
for a while as if things would never return to the way they were. But slowly the new normal is emerging, as our community—our beaches, parks, and businesses—reopen. Now more than ever it’s
important to exercise kindness with one another. It may be
difficult: the emotions we feel as cities around the country
give voice to decades of racial injustice are complex.
We are outraged one minute and inspired the next. Here in Milford, we have a long tradition of uplifting one
another, continually working to build a stronger, more inclusive community. July is the new
January. Time to begin anew. In this issue we look to
nature as our companion as we
importance of our topography and community. We celebrate our rich
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www.saintmaryschoolmilford.org 203-878-6539
Readers’Choice Best 72 Gulf Street Milford, CT Preschool 2012
www.saintmaryschoolmilford.org 72welcome Gulf Street Milford, CT E 203-878-6539 All faiths are and
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4 Milford Living • Summer
ones, and for that we offer you are deepest sympathies. It seemed
focus on the history and the
challenging All faiths welcome Offering many and E environment. Pre K -are 8 education in tuition assistance is available. a safe, spiritual, enrollment options Milford Patch E and for 3academically & 4 yearBest olds. Readers’Choice challenging Preschool 2012 GulftourStreet Milford, CT E 203-878-6539 Take virtual E environment. Pre K -a872 education in AllaMilford faiths welcome and safe, spiritual, on ourare website. Patch Etuition assistance is available. and academically Readers’Choice Best challenging Preschool Allenvironment. faiths are2012 welcome
tuition assistance is available.
of Covid-19. Some of us experienced the unexpected loss of loved
feature our beaches and farms,
E Start child’s in K - your 8Patch education Milford E Pre aReaders’Choice safe,ofspiritual, love learning at Best and academically Preschool 2012 St. Mary Preschool.
72 Gulf and Street Milford, CT E AllMilford faiths are welcome Patch Etuition assistance is available.
staying apart—ensconced in our homes to help control the spread
history together and we express our gratitude through service for one another.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the frontline workers
and volunteers who served our community during the darkest of
recent days and continue with their selfless labors. Well wishes to everyone doing their part to make a difference in our lives.
We hope you enjoy this issue of Milford Living and we wish you
many sunny days ahead.
All the best,
Suzanne
SUSAN FISHER
Stringent Infection Control for COVID-19 3 Cherry St. (Harmony Place), Milford, CT 06460 General and Cosmetic Dentist 203-878-1766 Child Psychology Certified www.familydentistrymilford.com Periodontist - Implant and Gum Surgery Certified New Office Hours
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readers’ letters Milford has a lot of seniors, maybe an article on something like that? —Pat Damon, Milford, CT Thanks for writing! We regularly try to feature articles on things Milford seniors can enjoy as well as members of the Milford senior community who are living their lives to the fullest! For many years we had a Senior Corner department and will consider bringing it back. Need captions for all photos. —Janice Purcell, Milford, CT We try…we really do! We use a combination of our own photographers, stock photos, and pictures provided by the subjects so sometimes
Drop us a line…
it’s difficult to track down names. But we promise to keep trying!
My grandmother, Rytena Parsons Spencer, worked at the hat factory [featured in the last issue] when she was a young girl. Very interesting facts. —Jane Allison, Milford, CT
We are excited to We are excited to An article on the original house that stood be celebrating where the condos across from the Yacht 40 years in practice Club are now. The original cannon was there be celebrating protecting Milford Harbor from the British. Thanks Jane! We love writing Wehistorical strivepieces to and mainta —Mary Ann Griffin, Milford, CT bringing attention back to the Milford that was! 40 years in the practice. very same value Great idea. You’re speaking of course of the Clapp Great magazine and interesting articles. present The were o strive tothat maintain house, which sat on the same site as what was We history of local churches would be interesting, Day One: once Fort Trumbull but was lost to the wrecking especially if you highlight their ministries.
the very same values We want your famil that were present on to be a part of our Day One: family! We are
ball in the 1980s. The cannon was not, in fact, a Revolutionary War artifact; prior to being placed in its current location outside the Milford Chamber of Commerce, it was dated to the Civil War era.
—Jerry & Helene Dellert, Milford, CT
Thank you for the suggestion. We have been spotlighting Milford’s various houses of worship for many years and will try to include more.
happily accepting new patients. We look forward to We want your family welcoming you to to be a parttheofBrush our& Floss family! Wefamily! are
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
Still Selling Homeshappily withaccepting new patients. Your Safety in Mind
We look forward to
Virtual Tours & Live Showings welcoming you to via Facetime, Zoom & more
the Brush & Floss family!
Dr. Jeffrey C. Hoos, DMD, FAG
Dawn Sullivan
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T
SUSAN CARROLL DWYER
The Bridgekeeper he Washington Bridge…many of us travel across it daily, or at least once a week. This
It may look like something out of an old sci-fi
local landmark has a long history of getting people where they need to go, beginning
flick, but this complex control panel requires
in 1758 with a small barge to move people and goods across the Housatonic. Legend
specific sequencing to operate the bridge.
has it that George Washington crossed the river on the barge in 1775 during his journey to Massachusetts to take command of the Colonial Army. The first actual bridge was completed in
The advent of the industrial revolution required a different kind of bridge. In 1894, an
1868 when it was struck by the Monitor, the legendary ironclad steamship lauded for its service
iron bridge was built for the whopping cost of
during the Civil War.
$88,500. With a center span that could swing
The bridge’s signature arches make it a favorite for local photographers.
8 Milford Living • Summer
MARYALICE MANNING
??
1813. At one point, the wooden structure was rebuilt when damaged by ice flows, and again in
clear, it allowed larger vessels to make their way
Ray Parker is one of the three bridge
up the river. A trolley line was also added to
operators who “keep” the Washington Bridge
transport passengers along the Boston Post Road.
functioning. He’s been working on bridges for
Work on the current bridge began in 1915,
30 years. “I stay near the radio for calls from
which, due to shortages of steel during World
the coast guard and vessels. They will give us a
War I, was not completed until 1921. Fabricated
heads-up so the bridge is open by the time the
by Bethlehem Steel and considered to be a
boats arrive,” says Parker. “Sometimes if a car
marvel of engineering, at the time it was the
is broken down or there is heavy auto traffic,
most expensive bridge in the state, at a cost of
we contact the coast guard to notify boaters
(Top) Blueprints of the bridge and (Above) the
$1.5 million dollars.
there is a delay for a certain amount of time.”
bridge under construction.
As one of nine moveable bridges the state of Connecticut manages, the Washington
Ray keeps a weather eye on the river to keep up on conditions.
“The first thing is to manipulate the traffic
Bridge is one of only a few manned 24 hours a
When a call is received for the bridge to
light. Then the gates are down it permits me
day, 365 days a year. Who mans it? Well, that’s
go up, Ray gets prepared. There’s a course of
to unlock the span. Once the locks are cleared
where the bridgekeeper comes in.
action with procedures within the sequence.
out of the way it can be raised. Once the boat
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milford spotlight clears the bridge the procedure is reversed.” There are multiple levers, switches, and keys to operate the span. Although the panel may look like something out of the 1950s, what is beneath it is high tech. Federal regulation requires a vessel to lower its mast if it at all possible. The tide is a factor as well because it changes the clearance under
The drawbridge opens to allow for vessel passage up and down the Housatonic to and from LI Sound.
the bridge. (A tide marker is located on either side of the channel.) As a precaution, the
day, it was a respite spot for weary travelers.
bridge cannot be raised in winds surpassing 35 miles per hour.
“I like it,” Parker says about his job. “It’s
is no fishing allowed off the bridge due to the river traffic.
different and it’s a big responsibility. There
Parker has a job with a great view and equal
So, the next time you traverse the Housatonic
is always something to look at. Occasionally
River on State Bridge No. 327, or are waiting in
responsibility. The two brick buildings on the
there are bridge buffs who come to check it
traffic when it’s up…take a moment to marvel
bridge each have their function. The bridge
out. Fisherman have a favorite the spot just
at the engineering behind the gates, and give a
operator is in the Stratford side building while
south of it. There are quite a few walkers at all
wave to the Bridgekeeper.
the Milford side houses a generator. Back in the
hours of the day and night.” However, there
—Susan Carroll Dwyer
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around town
L
ast year, on September 28th, a unique festival took place in Milford, the likes of which our Small City with a Big Heart had never seen. The festival, PorchFest, was a huge hit for the community and brought out hundreds of folks to take part in this annual celebration of music. PorchFest itself is an organic grassroots
COURTESY OF MILFORD ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Milford PorchFest
Local musicians entertained Milford residents on porches all around town.
great response,” shared Nash. “It felt almost
of Milford Arts Council (the MAC), the event
global initiative meant to develop
magical, like a giant block party. We left the
was a huge success, a wonderful way to
community and bring together local
commercialism out of it and made it very
embrace what makes Milford so special. “The
musicians and residents for music and fun
neighbor-friendly.”
arts bring us together and music is a huge part
in the casual setting of the front porch.
According to Paige Miglio, Executive Director
of that,” said Miglio.
The town of Ithaca, NY hosted the very first PorchFest, founded by residents Lesley Greene and Gretchen Hildreth, in 2007. Since then, more than 130 communities in the United States and Canada have had their own Porchfests, and the event has also spread beyond North America. Julie Nash, Milford director of Economic and Community Development, was the driving force behind bringing the event to town. Nash, who has attended several PorchFests in the Black Rock neighborhood of Bridgeport, felt that it would be a great fit for Milford. “I’d been thinking about it for a few years, and knowing how successful another music event, Make Music Day, was for Milford, in 2019 I finally pulled the trigger. There was a
12 Milford Living • Summer
Many listeners brough their own chairs to PorchFest locations to relax and enjoy the music.
Meg Pelletier-Tramuta, whose porch hosted
those who appreciate music, was a perfect
RumRunners, felt it was a very successful event.
place for its very own PorchFest.”
“It was amazing; I loved it. It was wonderful
The event, which ran from 1:00pm-6:00pm,
and so much fun to see people get together to
consisted of close to 70 bands, singers, and
listen to music, dance, and sing along. Everyone
instrumentalists of many different genres,
was so happy, and I thought it was a positive
and played on close to 70 front porches
experience for the whole town.”
around the city. Attendees walked, biked,
Another popular local band, The Elwoods,
or drove from house to house, enjoying the
performed at the home of Michelle Kramer. “I
different musical offerings, local bars and
thought PorchFest was a brilliant idea and a
restaurants, or even having picnics along the
great way to bring music to the community,”
way. Some homes hosted multiple bands
said band frontman Tom Intelisano. “The
throughout the day while others hosted
Elwoods totally enjoyed our location and hosts.
one. At one home the popular local band
I’m hoping we can do it again.”
RumRunners played twice!
COURTESY OF MILFORD ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
“Milford, a city with many musicians and
Attendance at Milford’s 2019 PorchFest
Kids and adults alike took the time to pause, listen, and relax together in music.
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around town exceeded expectations, with at least several hundred people participating in the fun. It is estimated that approximately 75% of the people attending were Milford residents, and the other 25% came in for the day from out of town. According to Pelletier-Tramuta, whose downtown location lent itself to foot traffic that day, “Some people came on the train, and it gave them the chance to see the downtown. Some were even able to visit the Milford Historical Society and learn about Milford’s history.”
PorchFest attendees traveled throughout Milford’s neighborhoods to enjoy the day.
At the time of this article’s writing it is not known whether there will be a PorchFest in
time required for the event to be successful,
on Facebook for any updates on a possible 2020
2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According
there is a chance of it happening. Those
PorchFest in our city.
to Nash, since there is not a great deal of lead
interested can follow the Discover Milford page
14 Milford Living • Summer
—Shaileen Kelly Landsberg
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at home Herb gardens are like having a never-ending spice rack in your own backyard. “Just mix tiny potatoes with a little oil, a pinch of salt, and some rosemary and you can cook them in the microwave if you don’t want to turn on the oven.” Among Arla’s favorites is Fontina cheese melted in a cast iron pan with oil and garlic with rosemary and thyme. “Serve that for an appetizer with something to dip, and you’ll have nothing left when it’s time for dinner. You’d be surprised what herbs can do to a piece of cheese.” Milford’s Historical Society maintains a large herb garden on the front and south sides of the Bryan-Downs House. The garden at the Milford Historical Society site on Plains Road was started by the Wepawaug Garden Club in 1967. Although herbs can be used for
The Secret Ingredient I
medical and other purposes, members of the Wepawaug Garden Club chose a selection
f the meatloaf you ordered at your favorite restaurant tastes more scrumptious than the one you make at home; if a simple tuna sandwich in your friend’s kitchen makes you wonder why you can’t make yours that way, you might be missing the secret ingredient known by fine cooks in Milford and around the world. “They turn an ordinary dish into something special,” says Arla Wiles, a Milford resident and member of the Milford Garden Club, known by her friends as an extraordinary cook. of herbs they could use in their home meal Club, grows rosemary, thyme, basil, and
preparation. By the time the garden was
replicate in your own cooking is probably
The distinctive flavor that you yearn to
parsley in her yard. “At least two herbs go
returned to the Historical Society in 1973, the
an herb or several herbs. This summer, as
into every meal I make,” she says. One of her
perennials were well established and the
in summers past, herb gardens will provide
favorites recipes is cream of mushroom soup,
annuals had their place to grow each year.
Milford gardeners and cooks with enough
in which she mixes a variety of vegetables
herbs to last throughout the year.
and that secret ingredient, thyme. “There’s
Historical Society’s Herbcrafters, is able to
always rosemary roast potatoes,” Arla says.
point out the many unusual herbs: lemon
Wiles, a member of the Milford Garden
16 Milford Living • Summer
Ardienne Damicis, president of the Milford
balm, horehound, lamb’s ear, rue, and
Herbcrafters is approximately fifteen
for example, are popular and reputedly
feverfew, along with better known herbs like
committed community members who meet
very tasty. Herbal butters can be made by
sage, lavender, and others. Herbs are annual
on the fourth Monday of most months to
combining softened butter with tarragon
or perennial. “Some of these herbs can be
exchange plants, plan their participation
(great on chicken, fish, or vegetables) chives
kept for the winter by spreading them on a
in Milford events, and discuss herbs.
(good mixed into plain rice or corn on the
tray, freezing them, and transferring them to
Membership is open to anyone who wants to
cob) or, as suggested by Arla Wiles, dill and
plastic bags,” Damicis says. “Others are best
attend, whether to learn or to educate others.
rosemary on steak.
dried and put in jars,” she added. “We use them all year-round in our cooking.” The current membership of the
Herbcrafters and members of the Milford Garden Club are always ready to share recipes
Experimentation is encouraged, but first you have to plant your herb garden.
containing their herbs. Rosemary cookies,
—Judy Goldwyn
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at your service
Feeding Frontline Heroes
A
s the COVID-19 pandemic began to get its grip on local communities this spring, people began to look for ways to help those in need. Matt Glennon, a lifelong Milford resident and local attorney, created a Go Fund Me page to generate funds to buy meals from local restaurants to be delivered to essential service workers. His idea was conceived as a way to help many friends and relatives who are healthcare practitioners and first responders, and from his experience working in the restaurant field which helped pay his way through law school. He knew how hard restauranteurs work, the long hours they put in, and the small profit margins they often realize.
Matt Glennon delivers breakfast from Little Lasse’s to Diego Brito for D Company, 102nd Infantry of the CT National Guard.
Glennon opened the Go Fund Me page on March 20th. “With COVID-19 causing
shutdowns across the country, the Milford restaurants that make our city so great and
that we all love will be facing tough times. Simultaneously, many workers will be putting their health on the line to treat the sick and ensure our essential services continue to be delivered. Let’s come together and kill two birds with one stone—support our local businesses and those keeping us safe,” he said at the time. A cadre of friends donned face masks and gloves and made the first deliveries on March 24th. As word of the fund spread, the initial goal of $10,000 was quickly surpassed. It currently stands at over $16,000 from generous donations ranging from $5 to $1000.
Thumbs up to the Bees Knees Café crew for supplying Yale Hospital nurses with a nutritious breakfast.
20 Milford Living • Summer
As the state begins to slowly open back up,
Glennon will shift to “phase two” of his plan, purchasing gift cards from local eateries to be distributed to other service workers, such as grocery and postal employees. “It felt great to get out into the community and see the positive impact of a small gesture like making a purchase or providing a meal,” said Glennon, adding that once the page is closed any remaining funds will be donated to a charity that supports laid off restaurant workers or essential service providers. To read more about the fund, or donate, please visit gofundme.com/f/msjzsc. —Susan Glennon
Ben Eisenhandler and Matt Glennon deliver Liberty Rock Tavern fare to the Milford Fire Department.
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milford morsels
Preserving Summer’s Bounty
A
few generations ago, preserving food from the harvest was about the only way to ensure adequate supplies of food all year. Most families spent time every summer and fall washing, prepping, and canning their fruits and vegetables, making jams and sauces, pickles and preserves, to be stored in the pantry for future use. With the expansion of the global supply
of food being canned: hot water bath canning,
and a jar lifter to remove the jars from the water
chain, fresh produce became available
pressure canning, and dry canning. It is
in which they were processed.
year-round, and canning fell by the wayside.
also recommended to always use the most
But the past several years has seen the rise of
up-to-date resource by canning experts such
pickles as these are relatively easy and can be
what is known as the locavore movement—
as Ball (ballhomecanning.com) to ensure safe
processed in a hot water bath. According to
people committed to eating food grown or
practices. Canning jars, new lids with wax
Iowa State University Extension, “pickling is
produced within their local community—and
seals, and rust-free rings are a must for all
preserving a food with acid and salt. The key
the old ways are returning to favor.
Many home canners begin with canning
three types of canning. Other useful supplies
to safe pickling is making sure that the acid
The locavore focus is on choosing local
are a wide-mouth funnel for filling the jars, a
is high enough to kill any microorganisms
food sources, picked in-season at the peak of
magnetic wand to lift the lids from hot water,
that can lead to spoilage or illness.” It’s
ripeness, full of flavor and nutrition, rather than
recommended that vinegar with 4-6% acidity
food picked early and transported thousands
is used. In addition to pickles, some sauces are
of miles before reaching the store. In that, this
also included in this type of canning since their
shift has led to a resurgence of home canning of
acidity is high enough to kill illness-causing
the summer’s local bounty.
microorganisms. Some popular canned pickles
Canning made its debut in 1809, when
go beyond the traditional cucumber ones. These
Frenchman Nicholas Appert, who had been
include the delicious dilly beans (pickled green
tasked with finding a way to preserve food
beans), corn relish, pickled beets, pickled green
for France’s military, developed a successful
tomatoes, pickled garlic cloves, and many,
procedure. His method, storing the food
many more. Recipes can be found online or in
in glass bottles or jars then heating them
canning books.
to a certain temperature for a period, was
The procedure is generally to place the fruit
successful, and changed the landscape of food
or vegetable in the sterilized jar, make the brine
preservation.
in a pot on the stove, and pour the hot brine
There are three general methods of home
into the jar, place a sterilized lid on top, screw
canning, each chosen depending on the type
on the ring, and place in the water bath. Once
22 Milford Living • Summer
all jars are in the bath, it is brought to a boil for
to be pressure canned. A pressure canner
the prescribed amount of time, then the jars are
or pressure cooker, along with the above-
removed to a cooling rack.
mentioned equipment, is required for this.
Jams, jellies, and most preserves are also
As there is a bit more risk to this type of food
processed in a water bath canner since the
preservation, use of the most recent guides is
acidity of the fruit (plus any lemon juice or
strongly recommended. It is also recommended
other acid added) allows for enough acidity
that the pressure canner’s (or cooker’s) gauge
to adequately destroy microorganisms. Some
be tested each year for accuracy by the state’s
favorites are raspberry jam, strawberry
extension office. In Connecticut it is done at
preserves, (served over shortcake in February
UCONN (The website is extension.uconn.edu.)
are delightful!) mint jelly, strawberry rhubarb
Meats, less-acidic sauces, eggs, soups,
jelly, and more. The sky is the limit with
vegetables, and more can be canned using the
summer fruit.
pressure-canning method. A similar method
Foods that are not acidic enough to kill the illness- and spoilage-causing bacteria need
to water bath canning is used, but instead of just boiling water, the pressure canner is
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milford morsels brought to a prescribed amount of pressure for a determined amount of time, which allows for much higher temperatures, killing microbes through heat rather than a combination of acidity and heat. Dry canning is a less frequently used method, and is appropriate for dry goods such as grains, flour, dried beans, and such. This type of canning is done in the oven using sterilized and dried jars, lids, and rings, and increases the
As they cool, they will seal with a welcome
Home canning is a great way to preserve the
shelf life of the dried goods stored inside. Many
telltale popping sound, which is music to every
flavor and nutrition of favorite foods, allowing
online resources can be found for dry canning.
home canner’s ears. Once cool, the jars can be
them to be enjoyed all year long. Many recipes
With all methods, after the jars are removed
stored in a cool, dark place for a year. Jars that
can be found online or in books at the public
from whatever vessel in which they have been
do not properly seal should be stored in the
library and at any bookseller.
processed, they are placed on a cooling rack.
refrigerator and used relatively quickly.
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A trio of family farms continue to bloom and grow
GROWN in Milford G A trio of family farms continue to grow and bloom By Makayla Silva
rowing flowers requires a well-honed technique, the right ingredients, and a lot of love. It’s a formula that flourishes at these beloved Milford family-run farms, where acres of flowers are sown not for commercial sales but for you, the visitor. This season, spend carefree hours among the plants, take home mood-boosting blooms, and restore your faith in the softness this earth can produce.
26 Milford Living • Summer
COURTESY OF RIVER CREST FARMS
BY MAKAYLA SILVA
COURTESY OF RIVERCREST FARMS
River Crest Farm
from the farm greenhouse, and their fruits
Young Oscar is the 5th generation to work
Tucked on the western edge of the city, River
and vegetables were sold to the Bridgeport-
River Crest Farm. The current clan focus on
Crest Farm is a family owned and operated
based N. C. Capozziello & Sons Wholesale
both flowers and veggies as well as hands-on
farm on Oronoque Road that was established
Fruit & Produce Co. After a while, storeowner
gardening experiences. The whole family helps
in 1942.
Nick Capozziello introduced his son Leonard
out at farmers markets around town.
Vermonter Ralph Perry and Hungarian
to Perry’s daughter Bobby, and in 1956 they
immigrant Irene Takacs Perry, along with
married. In 1963 they built a house on the
their daughter Irene “Bobby” Perry, devel-
farm and ended up raising three children
oped River Crest Farm and primarily raise
there.
vegetables and livestock. “My great grandfather, Ralph Perry, would
For nearly eight decades, the farm contin-
unusual perennial and annual plants. Today the farm is run by Bobby’s daughter Maria with her husband Andy and their family. In warmer months, you might meet
ued to evolve through each generation. A
members of the family at the Walnut Beach
drive his truck around Devon to sell eggs
small dairy herd was replaced by Christmas
Farmer’s Market or Downtown Milford
and vegetables right out of the back of the
trees. Eventually, flowers became the farm’s
Farmer’s Market. Or, perhaps, if you’re lucky
truck bed,” says River Crest family member
major crop. Bobby Capozziello, who had
enough to grab one of the farm’s prized farm
Andromeda Macri. “He became well known.”
a passion for growing flowers, expanded
shares (CSA), you could get a chance to meet
the greenhouse business to include many
the Macri’s once a week for your farm pickup.
The flowers Irene Perry grew were sold
2020 • Milford Living 27
Inspired by the thriving Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model, in which consumers buy upfront shares in exchange for produce throughout the growing season, the Macri’s saw an opportunity to bring the concept to their customers. “We launched our CSA in 2010 and started very small,” says Andromedia Macri. “Now, we have about 80 spots for our CSA and they fill up quickly. Each week you get to pick your own raspberries, herbs, and flowers along with your regular crop pickup.” Macri says the local farm-to-table movement has helped to increase the farm’s revenue and reach through the Milford community and beyond. “It so important because people have become very out of touch with their food, knowing where your (Above) River Crest Farm offers a variety of workshops. (Below) This historic barn greets visitors as they
food comes from and how far it’s traveling,”
arrive at Glendale Farm and is a reminder of Milford’s not-too-distant days as a farming community.
she explains. “If you know the person who is picking your food—giving you your food—it feels good to get something that just grew, that you’re eating fresh food, and knowing you can trust it.” Macri says the farm has diversified its operations to include some hands-on experiences including workshops on wreath-making and how to create a succulent garden. “To be successful, a lot of farms are looking at how to provide folks with an experience. You have to be more creative to stay afloat now because you’re competing with so many things.” The greenhouse at River Crest Farm is open a few weeks before Easter through early June so you can find annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetable starters, and more! And by more we mean, their resident cat and peacocks.
Glendale Farm
A hidden gem nestled in the northern corridor of Milford, Glendale Farms is a third-generation family farm that has been owned by the Astriab clan for more than 100 years. Established in 1917, Glendale Farm
28 Milford Living • Summer
MARYALICE MANNING
has its roots as a traditional New England
says current owner Tim Astriab. “We were
Fruits, flowers, and foals equal fun at Glendale
“truck farm” of vegetables, an apple orchard,
the first operation in the state to have a
Farm. With over 18 acres of farmland and
milking cows, and chickens.
mechanical string bean picker, making us one
a number of greenhouses, there is always
of the state’s largest producers at the time.”
something growing.
By the 1960s, a growing greenhouse operation had replaced the small apple orchard
By the 1980s, most of the farm’s land was
and both flowers and vegetables were being
lost to development and vegetable farming
to growing flowers in 1985,” explains Astriab.
grown for the wholesale and retail markets.
was no longer viable.
“We do more retail here than we’ve ever
“Beans were actually our principal crop,”
“We transitioned from growing vegetables
done. We cater to the homeowner and
2020 • Milford Living 29
gardener more than ever, growing plants for people who want to have gardens around their home.” He estimates that Glendale Farms does “about 25,000 hanging baskets every year.” With five acres of greenhouses, Glendale Farms features more than 300 varieties of annuals, vegetable plants, ground covers, and Easter flowers and serves both the wholesale and retail markets. In addition, the farm distributes to about 25 landscapers and four or five garden centers, boards 21 horses, and offers more than four acres of Pick-Your-Own Strawberries during June. “It has become a year-round business,” says Astriab. “For the longest time, we were just growing spring plants, but in 1990, we began growing mums, pumpkins, and poinsettias at Christmas,” he says. “There’s not many farms left, and people like to go to their local farms to see open space. You come up to North Milford here, and there’s 18 acres here to walk around, horses to see, and flowers to smell.”
Filanowski’s Farm
The oldest operating farm in Milford, Filanowski’s was established in 1900 by the Filanowski Family. Five generations of the family, starting with Mark Filanowski Sr., have continually farmed the expansive Wheeler’s Farms Road property since that time. Today, the farm is owned and operated by Mark Filanowski Jr., 89, and his family. The farm’s caretaker, Anthony Allen married into the Filanowski family and has been working on the farm for more than
COURTESY OF FILANOWSKI FARM
three decades. “I do it all,” says Allen. “The
30 Milford Living • Summer
farming, the electrical, the plumbing—I constructed many of those greenhouses out there,” he says, pointing to the line of the The Filanowki family has been providing Milfordites with vegetable plants, flowers, gourds, and trees for 120 years.
40 or so plastic covered greenhouses chock full of annuals, perennials, shrubs, and vegetables. Spanning more than 50 acres, historically, Filanowski’s was known for its vegetable crop which would be trucked all the way down to New York. But, Allen says, when that was no longer economically sustainable, the farm transitioned its focus to flowers and decided to sell straight to the public. “We made a good decision transitioning COURTESY OF FILANOWSKI FARMS
to selling to the public,” he says. We take the middleman out of the equation. And people feel like it’s a family atmosphere,” he says. “You might not get the right information about when or what to plant if you go to larger, big-box garden centers, whereas here, we tell our customers all of our secrets. We want their gardens to be beautiful.”
Filanowski’s features eye-popping planters full of succulent plants that can be enjoyed year round.
Sail the Connecticut River aboard Onrust! A replica of Adriaen Block’s 1614 exploring ship-the first European vessel to sail up the Connecticut River.
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Photo by Pim Van Hemmen
2020 • Milford Living 31
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POP QUIZ:
Can you name every beach in Milford? The answer may not be as crystal clear as water. A 2002 Natural Resource Inventory Report for Milford’s Open Space Steering Committee, written by Bartley C. Block, listed “15 named beaches in approximately 14 miles” of coastline, but the report
JJ RICHARDS
MILFORD BEACH NAMES
failed to include a few beaches that have been “unofficially” named by locals. Predictably, beach names evolved in response to Milford’s development. Whether named for a historic family, prominent individual, landowner, geographic characteristic, landmark, or street name, each beach’s personality is unique. BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER
Anchor Beach
appears that the original name
had a natural deposit of sand. The
FUN FACT: Anchor Beach’s iconic
Theories abound regarding how
was ‘Sandy Beach’; printed on
rest of the shoreline was all rocky;
Signal Rock pole dates back to
this cove-shaped beach acquired
several postcards. It was the only
you had to wear bathing slippers
1881, when it was used it as a
its name. “My hypothesis is many
Woodmont beach that always
or sneakers to get into the water.”
navigation tool to “signal”
years ago, a large vessel dropped anchor here,” says Dan Worroll, chairman of Milford’s Park, Beach & Recreation Commission. Woodmont Borough Warden Ed Bonessi recalls, “We used to have a granite dock that protruded off of Signal Rock… and large boats COURTESY OF KATIE MURPHY
would tie up and drop anchor.” Katie Krauss Murphy, author of Woodmont on the Sound, offers, “I‘ve never been able to determine whether the [bygone] Anchor Restaurant took its name from Anchor Beach or vice versa! It
34 Milford Living • Summer
Crescent Beach on a summer day in 1906.
locations of oyster lots. This
feet in extent, 800 feet of Cedar
landmark marks the unofficial
Beach is owned by the State.
dividing line between Anchor
The remainder of the narrow
Beach and Crescent Beach.
beach is privately owned.”
Bayview Beach
Crescent Beach
and Calf Pen Meadow Creek,
beach is situated to the right
Bayview runs along Bay Shore
of Anchor Beach. The name
Drive. Since 1921, it has been
“Crescent Beach” can be found on
privately owned and operated
postcards dating back to 1906. Its
by The Bay View Improvement
sand traces the shape of a perfect
Association. A 1938 edition of
crescent moon, hence the name.
Shore & Beach, describes it as, “a
Gulf Beach
Situated between Welch’s Point
This residential Woodmont
typical bayhead beach, separated
In 1714, the town granted the
by cobbles from each point.”
privilege of building a mill by the
Fronting a low-lying tidal marsh,
stream at the gulf at the harbor.
Bayview is flood-prone and has
Gulf Mill operated for 50 years,
weathered damage inflicted
and then was followed by the
by hurricanes Irene and Sandy.
construction of Gulf Wharf in
Government grants have taken
1793. Footpaths once led from the
steps to alleviate these issues.
busy shipyard to the sand. The Town of Milford purchased Gulf
FUN FACT: Nearby Bay Pointe
Beach in 1912 from George Wilcox
Village Condominiums on Melba
for $1,850. Present facilities
Street was converted to housing
include a fishing pier and picnic
from the old Point Beach Elemen-
tables. This picturesque beach
tary School in 1982.
has served as the backdrop for countless photos and publica-
Burwell’s Beach
tions (this one included)!
This is one of the several beaches named for Milford’s
Farview Beach
original settlers. John Burwell
Postcards were often sent as a way to share details of summer fun fro
accompanied the group of
one end of the Milford shoreline to the other including Bayview and
Farview intersects Hillside
“free planters” led by Rev. Peter
Cedar Beaches.
Avenue, extending down to the
Prudden in 1638. In 1690, his descendants Samuel and Nathan
Woodmont, these three beaches
established Burwell’s Farms on
are Merwin’s Beach, Burwell’s
a hillside, overlooking the beach
Beach, and Far View Beach.”
that would eventually bear their
Cedar Beach
Southernmost of the Tri-Beaches,
end of South Street. It’s unclear if the view inspired its name,
Eastern Red Cedar Juniper shrubs
but two circa 1902 photographs
commonly found along the CT
of a pristine Farview Beach are
coast were once in abundance
featured in Ernest L. Nettleton’s,
family’s name. “Burwell’s is lo-
FUN FACT: Free of the anti-
here. Bartley C. Block defined
The Shore of Milford. Ap-
cated on what’s referred to as the
semitism that pervaded other
Cedar Beach as, “The eastern por-
proximately 2,400 feet long, the
“Tri-Beach area,” explains Katie
areas, the Tri-Beach area became
tion of the sand spit” (comprising
beach surface is extremely rocky.
Murphy. “If you’re coming from
a Jewish summer enclave in the
Milford Point) at the western
Remnants of a damaged seawall
the center of town, just before
1930s and 40s.
end of the shoreline. About 3,000
can still be viewed at high tide.
2020 • Milford Living 35
Laurel Beach
In 1897, Connecticut designated the mountain laurel as the official state flower. In 1899, the Laurel Beach Association was formerly chartered by the State. It’s likely that when the latter hired esteemed architect Stanford White to design this beach community, these native shrubs were already in full bloom. JJ RICHARDS
As reported by Bartley Brock, at “approximately 2,200 feet in length, Laurel Beach is a
Fort Trumbull Beach
relatively wide beach, covered
The name pays tribute to the his-
in fine to medium sized grains
toric fort that protected Milford’s
of sand, with a curved seawall
citizens during the Revolutionary
fronting the cottages that is
War, and to Jonathan Trumbull,
approximately 900 feet long.”
an advisor to General George Washington, who served as Con-
FUN FACT: In 2007, an archeo-
necticut’s Governor from 1769-
logical excavation project at Laurel
1784. A century later, Augustus
Beach yielded an important dis-
Taylor’s lavish summer estate,
covery of Native American artifacts
The Gables (now condos) would
dating back some 3,000 years.
preside over Fort Trumbull Beach.
Morningside Beach
Due to its higher elevation, this beach has been less susceptible
Industrialist Henry G.
to erosion than others in the city.
Thompson named his sprawling Victorian summer
Merwin’s Beach
estate “Morningside” due to
Milford’s history has been
its enviable location, perched
influenced by several members
high on a bluff overlooking the
of the Merwin Family. First
Sound, facing the rising sun.
among them was Miles Merwin
Morningside Association mem-
(1623-1697), who established
bers have traditionally called
a successful tannery at the
their beach—located downhill
wharf. Mistress Abigail Merwin,
from their homes—“Center
regarded as Milford’s Paul
Beach,” due to its position in the
Revere, famously warned local militia about an impending
center of their seawall area. In A pleasant day on a Milford beach has been enjoyed for hundreds of years.
British invasion in 1777. Milford’s once-prominent role in the oyster
earlier days, brave beachgoers would have to navigate over
On summer weekends,
located at the far eastern limits
rocks, boulders, or season-
industry is due to William S.
visitors would disembark at the
of Milford’s shoreline, between
ally installed steps to access the
Merwin’s 1857 lab experiments
Merwin Avenue trolley stop to
rocky outcroppings at Burwell’s
water. After the city installed a
to plant oysters in Gulf Pond.
reach Merwin’s beach, which is
Beach and Merwin Point.
ramp in 1989, swimming out to
36 Milford Living • Summer
Point Beach
Regiment, mapmaker, writer,
The composition of this 2,500
prominent fur trader and ex-
ft long beach is mostly made
plorer who organized expedi-
up of various size stones. But
tions to the Northwest Passage,
the unobstructed view of Long
inspiring Lewis & Clark.
TOP: COURTESY OF DIANE DUMAS
Island Sound from the tip of
2. Charles Pond (1744-1832) Peter’s
Point Lookout more than makes
younger brother was a mer-
up from the lack of sand. Nearby,
chant shipmaster who crossed
at the corner of Gulf Street and
the Delaware with Washing-
Welch’s Point Road, a large brick
ton and served in the 19th Con-
wall indicates the entrance to the
necticut Regiment during the
old Pond Estate. During the 1920’s
American Revolution. His son,
many cottages were built along
Charles Hobby Pond (1781–1861)
Point Beach Drive.
served as Governor and Lt.
Point Lookout (Welch’s Point)
Governor of Connecticut. 3. Nanine Lawrence Pond (1869– 1950) holds the record as the
A 225-foot section of the 100-foot-
longest serving regent of the
wide beach has been maintained
Freelove Baldwin Stow Chapter
Top: Point Lookout with its dramatic view. Above: Myrtle Beach has always
by the Point Lookout Association,
of the Daughters of the
been a great place for a swim.
an organization of Welch’s Point
American Revolution (DAR).
homeowners. The beach material
She was instrumental in
the ever-popular Center Beach
high tides, storms and hur-
is fine to coarse sand with gravel
helping to establish the
raft became a summer rite of
ricanes, only to fail the wave of
and cobbles above the high-
Milford Historical Society.
passage for many.
eminent domain. From 1964-68,
water line.
redevelopment would take more
Another descendant, Wil-
Pond Point
liam S. Pond, was appointed
Three members of the Pond
a Turnpike Commissioner by
area, effectively ending a chapter
Family have been inducted
the Senate in 1868. His former
were built for residents to wait in
of history. Myrtle Beach would
into Milford’s Hall of Fame:
estate on Gulf Street near New
relative comfort before catching
reemerge as Walnut Beach.
1. Peter Pond (1740–1807) A
Haven Avenue was once the
the Bridgeport-Milford-New Haven
Thankfully, bygone Myrtle Beach
trolley line.
memories are preserved in the
FUN FACT: The two stone waiting
than 500 hundred homes, 150
stations that mark the entrances
businesses, and an amusement
to Morningside off Merwin Avenue
Myrtle Beach
While we can’t confirm this
beach is named for the dense thickets of Myrica (bayberry/ beach myrtle) that thrive along our shoreline, records indicate
soldier with a Connecticut
site of Milford Academy.
pages of Sand in Our Shoes: A Narrative and Pictorial History of Walnut Beach-Myrtle Beach, Milford, Connecticut.
Oyster River Beach
An asterisk indicates this beach
that this close-knit beach com-
doesn’t technically belong to
munity once extended from the
Milford. Only a tiny section is
east side of Naugatuck Avenue
situated in Woodmont, border-
(to the Sandbar to Charles Island),
ing Rosemary Court and New
north to Meadowside Road.
Haven Avenue at the West
Myrtle Beach would survive
Haven City line.
Pond Point Beach in 1910 - A favorite of vacationers for over a century.
2020 • Milford Living 37
Pond Point Beach
began breakwater construction
2,500 ft. in total, this beach,
on this private beach to, “protect
which begins on the east side of
the valuable fish-oil works” and
the Calf Pen Meadow Creek is
bluffs against severe storms
mostly composed of gravel and stones. At the time of Block’s
FUN FACT: In 1639, 500 new
report, mussel beds were preva-
residents attended Milford’s first
lent. During the late 1800’s, Pond
community-wide sunrise Easter
Point Beach waters encompassed
service on what is now Welch’s
200+acres of oyster beds.
Point.
Silver Sands Beach
Wildermere Beach
after Hurricane Diane destroyed
dermere Congregational Church
75 homes in 1955. Before its
was founded. That same year, the
official designation as a State
Wildermere Beach Improvement
Park in 1960, two Silver Beaches
Association was incorporated…
(East and West Beach) existed
as The Walnut Beach Association!
here, separated by a low-lying
This has lead to confusion about
headland. In addition to offer-
both the origin and spelling
ing recreational facilities and
of this beach’s name—which
access to Charles Island, Silver
appears as Wildemere (no “r”) in
Sands State Park encompasses
many official documents, books,
297 acres of beach, dunes, salt
real estate listings, and social
marsh, and woods—a natural
media pages. “When the Church
habitat for birds and wildlife. Its
was formed 125 years ago it was
Acquisition of Silver Sands began
1895 marked the year that the Wil-
silvery-colored sand is largely
Top: Point Beach in 1910. Center: Silver Beach’s sand was a magnet for
called Walnut Beach Chapel...
due to the prevalence of Knobbed
tourists. Above: Walnut Beach in 1907. The summer fun continues to
because we are near the border
Whelk (busycon carica)—which
this day.
of Walnut Beach,” says Rev. Ken
have outer shells ranging in hue from ivory to pale gray.
Fellenbaum, pastor at Wildermere name Walnut Beach. The Walnut
beach, fishing pier, parking,
Beach Congregational Church.
Beach Improvement Association
concert pavilion, Charles Island
But he adds, the church “is
FUN FACT: Next year marks the
was incorporated in the summer
views, and the aforementioned
actually in Wildermere Beach,
10th anniversary of the ribbon
of 1895. State records defined the
boardwalk that connecting to
so the name was changed.”
cutting for the three-quarter mile
beach boundaries as properties
Silver Sands State Park.
boardwalk that links Silver Sands
previously owned by Benham
to Walnut Beach.
Brothers, Charles Nettelton, the
FUN FACT: The 1833 General
and Heraldic Dictionary of the
Also known as Point Lookout, this
Peerage and Baronetage of the
Merwin Hotel. For years, Walnut
beach was named for Thomas
British Empire Vol.1 references a
According to Ellie Benefico, a
Beach had an amusement area,
Welch, one of the “Seven Pillars”
“Reverend Sir Richard Fleming,
co-author of Sand in our Shoes,
complete with a carousel, small
of the original Milford Church,
Baronet…rector of Grassmore and
“There used to be a grove of
roller coaster, boats, cars, an
the very settler who deeded this
Wildermere.” As Wildermere/ (or
walnut trees at the foot of
airplane ride, and Ferris wheel.
tract of land to Chief Ansantawae
Wildemere) represents an historic
Naugatuck Avenue near a road
Today, due to the efforts of The
for the equivalent of $100.
country in extreme NW England,
that ran along the shorefront.”
Walnut Beach Association (WBA)
That’s probably the origin of the
the area boasts a well-maintained
Walnut Beach
38 Milford Living • Summer
Boughton Estate, and up to the
Welch’s Point
During the late 1800’s, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers
an early Milford settler may be linked to this distinguished family.
Woodmont Beach
connected Woodmont to New
Although Waterbury resident
Haven. By the 1950s the glory
Dr. Joseph Anderson built the
days of the Borough faded, but
first beach cottage here in 1874,
present-day Woodmont Beach
it was his friend, Russell Ayres,
fans continue to sing its praises.
who came upon this stretch of marshy shoreline during a
FUN FACT: According to every
horse and buggy ride two years
map Ed Bonessi has viewed over
prior. Ayres liked what he saw,
the last 35 years, “the 1,500 feet
purchased two vacant hillside
Woodmont Beach section that
properties and dubbed this,
runs along Beach Avenue from
“wooded mount set back from
Clinton Street to Bonsilene Street
the shore,” as Woodmont.
is called ‘Middle Beach’. Not 100%
By the time Woodmont
sure why!”
became an official Borough in
Attempts to mitigate erosion
Beach kids frolic in the water at Fort Trumbull beach.
1901, the summer population
on this largest stretch of beach in
was booming. This surge was
the Borough (1959 and 1977) were
U.S. Army Corp of Engineers
end of the bargain by doing
largely due to the development
ineffective. In 1993, a $2 million
was implemented. “It will run
periodic elevation checks and
of the New Haven Electric Rail
repair-and-restoration-project
Company trolley line, which
by the city in cooperation with
and Woodmont uphold their
Bonessi adds.
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this season It allows us to get a bunch of bands.” “For the 2nd Annual Fest, we made t-shirts and sold all of them. We donated the $750 we raised to Yale Children’s Hospital. Last year we were able to donate $2,500. This year we would like to double that. The Children’s Hospital was chosen because our son had
E
Hospital in Boston, and we wanted to donate to someone local,” DeStefano explains. Last summer about 250 boats, along with their floats, were on hand to enjoy the music. Kim Buda has attended all three Fests. “It was a beautiful day on the water. So much fun to raft up to other boats, listen to great music KIM BUDA
4th Annual Charles Island Music Festival
multiple surgeries with the Children’s
njoying a traditional annual event is nice, but starting one is whole other ball game. Every year, Milford’s Joe DeStefano and his wife Lori would make a trip across the sound on their boat “Wicked Naughty” to a music festival. “Every year in Northport, Long Island, they have a concert at their lighthouse. One year the lighthouse was under construction, so they did not have the event. Then I thought, ‘Maybe we could have one here.’”
and float around enjoying a cocktail! I love that they sold t-shirts and koozies with all proceeds benefitting the Yale Children’s Hospital. I see people wearing them around and they all say what a great event it was.” Buda says, “I am very excited that the Rum Runners will be playing this year’s event. They are a fun, entertaining band with an amazing group of followers.” Doug Edo, a member of the Rum Runners,
The inaugural Charles Island Music Festival in 2016 was small, but it worked. “We got a guy to come out with a guitar and an amp; we had about 20 boats rafted up and it was a good time.” The next year kicked it up a notch. “We had a two-person acoustical band on a pontoon boat,” DeStefano recounts. “We had about just COURTESY OF CHARLES ISLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL
over 100 boats enjoying the music.” But what about next year? he thought. 2019 he took it to a whole new level. DeStefano formed a committee and reached out to companies to sponsor the event. “Last year, our third, we made it a little bigger and better. Blakeslee Arpaia Chapman, Inc. in Branford (a 175-year-old marine construction company) graciously donated a barge to use as a stage and will be donating it again this year.
40 Milford Living • Summer
Joe and Lori DeStefano present last year’s donation to representatives of Yale Children’s Hospital.
attended last year’s Fest for the first time. “We floated on tubes tied off to the boat, fired up the grill, and ate everything you would at a COURTESY OF CHARLES ISLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL
backyard BBQ. All the time live music was being performed by so many amazing people on the barge.” Edo recalls, “Everyone was asking, ‘How about the Rum Runners?’ Of course, we want to play! And it is also a fundraiser for Yale Children’s Hospital, so it’s a no brainer.” The 4th Annual Charles Island Music Festival will take place on August 1st from 11:00 am - 6:00 pm, with a rain date of August 2nd. “We are excited to feature The Rum Run-
Boats, kayaks, jet ski’s, paddleboards, and rafts gathered to enjoy the day on the water.
ners this year. Doug Edo had a few suggestions to improve some of the technical glitches
in the sun, and great times with good friends.
we experienced last year,” says DeStefano.
We are working to meet our goal of donating
“Everyone can expect some good music, fun
$5,000. Hope to see you on the water!”
For more information visit the Charles Island Music Festival Facebook page. —Susan Carroll Dwyer
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education notebook
Mapping the Boardwalk
F
or some, maps symbolize adventure, mystery, and treasure. (Can you imagine Indiana Jones or the Goonies without one?) For others, maps are an essential and time-saving tool now available at the touch of a fingertip. (Thank you, Google!) Caroline Chesson, a senior at Jonathan Law High School, melds both concepts and opens our eyes to the adventure and treasure of our own Walnut Beach/Silver Sands Boardwalk. Now available through Google Maps on your
Chesson, 18, grew up in Milford with a love
phone, you can explore the boardwalk with
for the water, thanks in part to her dad, Milford
a new awareness of the wildlife, foliage, and
Attorney Robert Chesson, a Navy veteran and
natural formations of the land around you. The
SCUBA diver. She is also SCUBA certified and
map features colorful pins of interest like the
says the water is her second home. Chesson
migration of goldfinches to Walnut Beach and
will begin her studies in Marine Biology at the
the invasive autumn olive bush found here,
University of Tampa this fall with a focus on
but native to the Himalayan mountains. Do
marine mammals and dolphin training. “I’ve
The app provides detailed information for any
you know what a “kettle pond” is or that we
been going to the Dolphin Research Center in
lover of Walnut Beach or Silver Sands.
have two of them at Silver Sands? (Chesson’s
Florida for five years now. I spend a week every
map tells you that a kettle pond is an almost
summer at the dolphin lab,” Chesson says.
perfectly round reservoir of water formed at
According to Christine Bouchard, Science
the cartography or mapmaking project at Jonathan Law High School. The project was
the end of the Ice Age.) The map also features
Department chair and also Conservation
offered by the Natural Resource Conservation
nesting piping plovers, wildlife photography,
Commissioner for the town of Madison,
Academy at the University of Connecticut as
and overviews of the marshland and coastal
Chesson’s love of water and its wildlife
an Independent Study course.
habitats along the boardwalk.
made her the perfect candidate to lead
42 Milford Living • Summer
“I wanted to get students here involved,
and Caroline was all for it. She ran with it
the map. She then focused on points of interest
and I was very impressed with her poster
and created each of the 23 pins. In addition to
presentation—it was thesis-level work,” said
those already mentioned, other pins explain
Bouchard, who acted as Chesson’s advisor and
why you shouldn’t feed waterfowl bread or
mentor. She added that although Chesson
wheat (it can cause malnutrition) and how a
has completed the first part of the project, the
jetty is formed by tides.
second part, featuring signage and city and
“This project will have an impact on the
state promotion of the map, are still pending.
residents of Milford,” said Bouchard, citing
Currently, the link and QR code to the map can
the detail Chesson put into the points of
be found on the website of the Walnut Beach
interest along the Boardwalk. “I would love
Association: www.WalnutBeachAssociation.
Check in from your desktop or mobile device for
more people to appreciate our natural outdoor
com. Or, you can explore the Walnut Beach/
a virtual visit to the beach anytime.
spaces, especially our young people. I hope this
Silver Sands Boardwalk at: https://tinyurl. com/milfordctboardwalk.
project prompts others to promote the care of app available from Google. She walked the
Chesson created the map with “TrackIt,” an
our environment.”
Boardwalk and the app set the coordinates for
—Angela Arpino
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historical perspective
The Milford Grenadiers
B
ack in the Colonial era, after acquiring our freedom from Great Britain under one flag as the United States of America, individual states still held their own militias, and Connecticut was no exception.
Of the Connecticut Militia, there was one
The Milford Grenadiers were originally organized in 1796 with the officers of Captain Daniel Sacket, Lieutenant Abram V. H. DeWitt, and Ensign Benjamin Bull. The regiment
resident Matt Michell. (The Janissaries,
served the Milford community until they were
group of men who were famously known
formed in the 14th century, are considered
officially disbanded on June 15, 1836.
in Milford and its surrounding areas as the
the first modern standing army in Europe.)
First Flank Company of Light Infantry of the
“Typically used as an elite shock troop, they
instilled a feeling of safety and security
32nd Regiment of Connecticut Militia, more
were often physically larger than other
amongst the residents of Milford. The
commonly called the Milford Grenadiers.
infantry, carried grenades, an infantry
company marched through the town with
weapon, and could often be relied on for
music following in their wake and the citizens
group that was an offshoot of the Janissaries
siege warfare-type assaults on defended
knew they were protected.
from the Ottoman Empire,” says local
fortifications.”
“Grenadiers are a specialized infantry
During their active days, their presence
The men serving in this company wore scarlet coats with buff facings, gold lace trimmings, drab knee breeches with buckles, Suwarrow boots with tassels, and 18-inch pointed caps. Several years later, the breeches were swapped out for blue broadcloth pants, and in 1815, white pants were the new standard. In the mid-1820s, the cap was changed out for a heavy, square-top inverted fire bucket with a red feather. One of the most notable times in the Milford Grenadiers history began on the first Monday of May 1812, one month before the War of 1812 began, when Captain Pond delivered the news of a British ship taking four of his men and
PENNY BOLAND
his interview with the ship’s
44 Milford Living • Summer
Two Milford Grenadiers hats are part of the Milford Historical Society collection.
RICHARD PLATT
commander, Viscount Wellington. He proudly
In 1816, the company was changed from the
written by John W. Fowler and published
declared himself a representative of Milford,
32nd Regiment to the 2nd Regiment. In 1822,
in 1876, describes the scene in dramatic
Connecticut and stated that further such
the ranks had reached its height with 70 men
fashion: “All that remained of that once
actions would surely lead to a war with the
enlisted.
unrivalled corps (about twenty-five)
United States. Captain Pond shared the news
Beginning in 1827, under Captain Curtis
assembled at the junction of Broad and
that the commander had said “…Heaven save
Summers, the Milford Grenadiers began their
Wharf streets, surrounded by many of
us from a war with the United States so long
slow decline. Rivalries, political maneuverings,
the “old Guard” and amid the tears of
as the Milford Grenadiers retain their reputed
and suspicions of treachery took their toll
the populace, the funeral obsequies were
efficiency, discipline, and bravery.” Despite
and Summers lost the confidence of his men.
performed and the once renowned Milford
this statement, war broke out in the next
Old timers retired and the numbers quickly
Grenadiers were ranked among the things of
month, and as British ships were seen out in
declined. Finally, on August 5, 1836, the last of
the past; and the mourners went about the
the Sound, the Milford Grenadiers were called
the Grenadiers disbanded.
streets.”
to defend Fort Trumbull.
The History of the Milford Grenadiers,
—Brian Creevy
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2020 • Milford Living 45
milford’s attic
Summer and sports just go together. Games with friends can turn into life-long memories and Milford families in the 1900s and earlier were as ready to play as we are today: croquet, tennis, squash, golf, and fishing. The croquet set shown here is from the 1920s. While croquet is often thought of as a genteel game, this set shows the wear of many games of tactical play, just like it should. These tennis racket frames are wooden with plastic “strings” that had to be re-strung to keep them taught. You didn’t just buy a new racket—you fixed it. The smallest racket in the middle is a squash racket that was manufactured by the Moody Co. of Milford. Golf clubs like the ones shown here once
46 Milford Living • Summer
had shafts and club heads made of wood until blacksmiths in about 1900 began experimenting with metal-forged styles. When the tide was just right and the sky so clear, your next thought might have been wishin’ you were fishin’. The thin fishing rod, shown at the right, would likely be close at hand just out in the back shed. Win or lose the game, catch a fish or not, everyone could enjoy snacks from a picnic basket. Imagine all the sandwiches, homemade pies, fresh strawberries, and lemonade packed in that over the years in this blue metal basket. Who cares about the score? —Marilyn May Photographer: Susan Carroll Dwyer
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congratulations
SUSAN CARROLL DWYER
C
ongratulations to the Milford Historical Society on their 90th Anniversary! The first meeting on May 12, 1930 began 9 decades of dedication to preserve Milford’s long and storied history. Later that same year the Society purchased the Eells-Stow House, one of the oldest homes in town. Over the years the Stockade House (once Milford Hospital) and the Bryan Downs House were also saved from demolition and moved piece by piece to High Street. Often referred to as Milford’s Attic, the Society’s collection of
thousands of historical items that tell the story of Milford. Aside from preservation the Society offers
education through house tours, school programs, special lectures, and historic walks around Milford.
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HOME, CONDO & RENTERS Subject to terms, conditions & availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co. ©2018 Allstate Insurance Co.
Fa m i ly & p o r t r a i t photography
203.650.0383
www.sherrylynnphotography.com sherrylynnFoto@gmail.com
50 Milford Living • Summer
Mobile Wood Fired Pizzas for Parties!
Right Choice Real Estate
Gourmet Pizza, Calzones, Subs, Salads, Dinners, Greek Food & Much More!
CERTIFIED RESIDENTIAL SPECIALIST ACCREDITED BUYER REPRESENTATIVE
WENDY WEIR
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203.882.0220
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BUSINESS HOURS Sunday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Monday - Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
silversandspizzact.com
415 Boston Post Road, Milford CT
www.WendyWeirHomes.com
670 Boston Post Road, Milford
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MILFORD MARINE INSTITUTE & GULF POND MUSEUM
T
his will be the 37th year of Marine Biology, Marine Biology Science and Art, Archaeology/Native American Culture, and Bird Identification Art Camps. The Milford Marine Institute possesses one of the largest collections of large marine mollusks in the northeast. Due to the Covid outbreak, please call or e-mail Director Tim Chaucer for updates on camp dates, times, and procedures: 203-874-4000 or 203-988-0918 or tchaucer@msn.com.
228 New Haven Avenue Milford, CT 06460
Group or individual programs in the areas of marine biology, archaeology, Native American culture, bird identification and even American history tools/ artifacts programs may be arranged with appropriate social distance and public health protocols. The institute can also arrange programs about Milford historical figures such as Revolutionary War Continental Army soldier and autobiographer Joseph Plumb Martin or Revolutionary War militiaman and diarist John Downs with appropriate social distance and public health protocols.
DrRumley.com
Contact Tim Chaucer, Director 203-874-4000 tchaucer@msn.com or milfordmarineinstitute.org
Gregory F. Doyle FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
Our team of Licensed Insurance Agents specialize in all types of Medicare plans
Now Entrusted with the Smith Funeral Home families
NEWLY RENOVATED
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203-874-5641
291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford US Route 1, Rte I-95 Exit 34, Right .2 Miles
Devon Center
www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com
Senior Insurance Consultants Our mission is to serve our clients and give back to the community. We meet at your home or offer virtual appointments. We offer final expense planning We are here to help.
1-888-76-SENIORS - 1-888-767-3646 INFO@SIC65.COM 2020 • Milford Living 51
greetings from milford
Nothing Like a Dame n August 3, 1944, the world was at war and Patton’s 3rd
Army reached the German defense lines in the French
city of Rennes. But here on the homefront, Junior was
apparently polishing his game on the lovely bathing beauties
gracing the waters of Walnut Beach. The fact that these dames could swim was all it took to crow to his pal Herb in Agawam who must have thought, “Jeepers! Wish I was there!”
—Ann McGuire
C
ATE COMMUN R B E IT Y EL
CALL TO SCHEDULE
DELIVERY & CURBSIDE PICK UP
EXTENSIVE SELECTION OF EXCEPTIONAL WINES, SPIRITS & BEER KNOWLEDGEABLE AND FRIENDLY STAFF EVENT & PARTY PLANNING EXPERTS
203-876-1600 242 Boston Post Road WinesAndMoreMilford.com
52 Milford Living • Summer
Milford CT (NEXT TO BIG Y)
FAMILY OWNED & PROUDLY SERVING MILFORD SINCE 2005
St. Mary School
AWARDED BEST SOUPS, BEST SERVICE AND “INTERNATIONAL AWARD WINNING” MUSSEL CHOWDER!
Growing in Faith & Knowledge
Come discover the difference a St. Mary School education can make in your child’s future.
EST. IN 1988
PLEASE CALL AHEAD OR ORDER ONLINE DELIVERY: MON - SAT 11AM - 2PM (AVAILABLE WITH $20 MIN. ORDER) WE ACCEPT ALL CREDIT CARDS PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Now serving BREAKFAST..LUNCH..EARLY DINNER - Close at 6pm Hours: Mon-Fri 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Sat. 6:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Currently accepting applications for 2020-2021 St. Mary School has been educating the mind, heart and souls of children for over 59 years. 72 Gulf Street Milford, CT
203-878-6539
www.saintmaryschoolmilford.org
• Award Wining Soups 5 plus served a day... Lobster bisque on Fridays • Breakfast specials to start out your day !
203-874-9414 Fax.203-876-1647
of Milford Living for only $17.80!
M i l f o r d
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L i v i n g
Milford is is fo r
Living
M i lf or d
for
Liv in g
Spring S u mm e r
2014
Summer 2020 Vol. 17 Issue 2 $5.99
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P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460 (203)283-5290 www.milfordliving.com
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• Salads galore • Combo meals • Huge assortment of Sandwiches daily and so much more!
expressions
#Milfordstrong igns of togetherness can be seen all throughout the Milford community. Photographers: Dina Cashman and Maryalice Manning
54 Milford Living • Summer
2020 • Milford Living 55
?
where is it? Answer to last issue’s quiz:
The cupola that sits atop of the Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point.
Do you know the answer to this issue’s Where is It? Want to win a Milford Living Subscription?
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.
56 Milford Living • Summer
BILL CANFIELD
Send us your answer at: suzanne@milfordliving.com
When a busy weeknight calls, we have the answer. With this time-saving treasure and freezerfriendly recipe, you can say goodbye to boring and say hello to deliciousness in no time. Ñ
SWEET & SPICY GRILLED CHICKEN WINGS
25 min. prep time
30 min.
grill time
8
servings
Add a little smoke to the sweet and spicy goodness. ¼ cup balsamic vinegar ¼ cup sweet chili sauce 3 Tbsp. Big Y pure honey 2 Tbsp. sriracha sauce 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice 1 tsp. Big Y brown sugar 1 tsp. Big Y garlic powder ½ tsp. onion powder -sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
FIRE from
ICE An easy meal from freezer to grill. ®
the B I G Y M A G A Z I N E
2 tsp. cold water 1 tsp. cornstarch -Big Y no-stick cooking spray 4 pounds bone-in chicken wings, thawed 1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine vinegar, chili sauce, honey, sriracha, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper to taste; whisk until combined. Let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together water and cornstarch until cornstarch has dissolved. Add to sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Boil for 3 minutes and remove from heat. 3. Coat grill grate with cooking spray and preheat to medium. Grill wings for 10 minutes. Flip wings and continue to grill for 10 minutes. Generously brush wings with sauce and continue to grill wings for 5 minutes on each side or until done and desired crispness is reached. nutrition information per serving
Calories: 495 (Calories from Fat: 270); Total Fat: 30g (Saturated Fat: 9g); Protein: 40g; Total Carbohydrates: 13g (Dietary Fiber: 0g; Sugars: 12g); Cholesterol: 252mg; Sodium: 343mg
Scan this code for the digital version of Big Y Dig In® Magazine full of more summertime goodness. Or pick up your FREE copy available in-store now!
WE WILL OVERCOME.
Milford Vascular Institute 20 Commerce Park, Milford, CT (203)882-VEIN (8346) www.milfordvascular.com
