Avon Celebrates Revolutionary History with Free Weekend Events

From Thursday, September 17 through Saturday, September 19, the little town of Avon, Connecticut, will open its doors to anyone curious about the Revolutionary era. The festivities are part of the larger America 250 celebration, and the town has aptly called the series a “History Weekend.”

Most of the events will unfold at the Avon Free Public Library on Country Club Road. The final program, a lively stage show, shifts the scene to the Avon Senior Center on West Avon Road, giving seniors a front‑row seat to the past.

Kick‑off begins on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. with “Tavern Music,” a cozy set curated by music historian Richard Franklin Donohue. He’ll spin songs that once echoed through Connecticut taverns during the war, complete with period‑style décor and light refreshments. No RSVP—just stroll in and soak up the melody.

Saturday is the busy day. At 11 a.m., the library hosts a “Printing Revolution” demonstration. From 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or while supplies last), visitors can try their hand at a replica colonial press, learning how printed words helped stir the colonies from 1638 to 1787.

At 1 p.m., historian and author Claire Bellerjeau takes the podium for a talk titled “Cato in the Revolution: Spies, Slavery, Church, and Chocolate.” She delves into the life of Cato, an enslaved Black man who aided Patriot spy and tailor Hercules Mulligan. Copies of her book will be on sale for those who want a deeper dive.

Just two hours later, Bellerjeau returns for “Remember Liss: A New American Founding Figure,” shedding light on Elizabeth “Liss”—another enslaved woman linked to the Townsend family, famous for spy Robert Townsend (Culper Jr.). The lecture offers a fresh perspective on the hidden contributors to America’s fight for independence.

As the sun sets, the Avon Senior Center comes alive with Playhouse 44’s production, “Patriotic Salute: Voices of Liberty.” The show blends songs, poems, satire, snacks, and a sing‑along, all designed to honor the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Admission is free, thanks to a generous grant from American Eagle Financial Credit Union.

All three Saturday lectures are sponsored by the Friends of the Avon Library, underscoring the community’s commitment to education and remembrance. Registration isn’t required for the music and demo, but the library does offer a simple sign‑up for the talks—just in case seats fill up.

In short, Avon’s History Weekend provides a blend of entertainment, hands‑on learning, and thoughtful reflection—exactly what the town’s theme “Celebration — Reflection — Civic Pride” promises.