On Sunday, May 17, 2009 The
Barkhamsted Historical Society will unveil a large exhibit about the Barkhamsted
Lighthouse. The exhibit features the facts and the legend behind the famous
site where James and Molly Chaugham's cabin once stood. Molly a woman of
European decent and James a Narragansett Indian man, married and then fled to
the northwest hills of Connecticut in the late 18th century. The Lighthouse and
the community that grew up around it was located on East River Road between
Pleasant Valley and Riverton and was excavated in 1990 by Dr. Kenneth Feder, an
archaeologist from Central Connecticut University. In December 2008 the
Lighthouse was designated as an Archaeological Preserve by the Connecticut
Historic Preservation Council.
At 1:00 on Sunday, May 17th, Dr. Kenneth Feder will
give a presentation on the historical background of the Barkhamsted Lighthouse
Community at Squires Tavern, 100 East River Road in Barkhamsted. After the
presentation, attendees will board a bus and then be
led on a walking tour of the Archeological site by Dr. Feder. The walking tour
is over rough terrain and attendees should wear
comfortable walking shoes.
Space is limited and reservations are
required. To reserve your space please call Charlie Lynes at 379-7362.
A suggested $5.00 donation will be collected at the door. Don't miss this
exciting opportunity to learn about some of Barkhamsted's earliest residents and
the Legend of the Barkhamsted Lighthouse.