Events

We're delighted to host, Marie Botswick, and feature her latest uplifting and thought provoking work of historical fiction, The Book Club for Troublesome Women, at our Spring Literary Luncheon. The book is a work of historical fiction, exploring the lives of four housewives in the 1960s residing in suburban Virginia.  By many accounts these women are living the American Dream, yet they have a yearning for "more".  They start a book club - their first title is Betty Frieden's The Feminine Mystique.  The book has each of them examining and questioning their own lives - their fears and dreams - and also seeking change to make their longings a reality.  The cost is $65.00 which includes lunch, book and an opportunity to engage with Marie Botswick.

Discover the beauty and simplicity of watercolor using just the three primary colors. In this beginner-friendly talk and hands-on session, we’ll explore how red, blue, and yellow can mix to create a surprising spectrum of hues—while also learning how water, pigment, and paper interact in this luminous, fluid medium. With supplied materials and guidance, you’ll experiment with blending, transparency, and basic brush techniques. No experience necessary—just a sense of curiosity and a willingness to let the paint flow. This program is FREE and open to ALL regardless of residency at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Supplies are limited, so registration is required. This program is for adults, age 19+. Register online at youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560. About the Artist Theresa Zwart-Ludeman is a painter based in Chester, Connecticut, known for her evocative watercolors and thoughtful approach to storytelling—both on the canvas and the page. Her work often explores atmosphere, memory, and emotion through representational and abstraction and layered color. Drawing from years of personal practice and a deep connection to place, Theresa’s art invites viewers to slow down and look more closely. In addition to painting, she enjoys sharing her creativity at local art events. Visit theresazwart-ludeman.com for more information about […]

Join Dannel P. Malloy, former two-term Governor of Connecticut and current Chancellor of the University of Maine System, for a reflection on pivotal moments in recent Connecticut history. Drawing from his years as Governor and Mayor of Stamford, Malloy will offer an insider’s perspective on leading through crises, reforming public education and criminal justice, and navigating the economic challenges of the Great Recession. His remarks will highlight how history is shaped not only by policy decisions, but by the values and resolve of those who serve — a fitting tribute to Barry Fulford, whose enduring legacy continues through this history lecture series. Refreshments will be served following the talk. Register HERE.

All are invited to join us for the first meeting of EHS’s Connecticut History Book Club. EHS will host this quarterly book club to explore the state's past through both fiction and non-fiction works, highlighting key events, figures, and themes that shaped the state or played a larger role in America’s history. We will focus on works that illuminate the bring marginalized stories to the forefront, offering a deeper understanding of Connecticut's diverse history. Join us for insightful discussions that connect the past to the present, revealing the histories that shaped our state. For our first book we have chosen the novel: The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare. While Connecticut natives may have had this as required reading in grade school, newer residents may not yet be familiar with this 1959 Newbery Medal Winner about a young woman in colonial Connecticut. This title is appropriate for ages young adult and up. Books can be checked out from Ivoryton Library or Essex Library Association, or purchased wherever you get your books. On Wednesday, June 18, we will meet at Pratt House for a book discussion lead by EHS Director, Melissa Josefiak. This event is FREE and lite refreshments will be […]

Join the RiverLane for a heartwarming weekend of new beginnings! The RiverLane is partnering with Dog Days to host an adoption event on Saturday, June 28th and Sunday, June 29th from 11 AM to 4 PM. The event will take place outside, next to their Essex store. Dog Days has been rescuing dogs for 15 years, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this milestone! If you're interested in adopting, applications are available ahead of time. More info coming soon! Let's make this a weekend of second chances and forever homes for these deserving dogs. For more information about adoption or to donate, visit: https://www.godogdays.org/adopt/ https://www.godogdays.org/donations/

Take a trip down Main Street in Essex Village to capture the rich maritime history of 18th century “Potapaug,” its working waterfront and ship-building prominence in the early 19th century as well as its development as a beautiful visitor destination of today. Our tours meet at the "Foot of Main Street" in front of the CT River Museum and start at 5:00pm.  Walking tours are open to the public but we do appreciate an RSVP that you plan to attend by emailing our Director at mjosefiak@essexhistory.org.  We ask for a $5 donation per person but tours are free to active 2025 members. Our walks last about an hour and are on mostly flat ground covering a little less than a mile.  We try to adapt our tours a bit based on our audience of the day, but if  you would like a fully customized tour, please contact our staff 860-767-0681 to arrange, giving us at least 3 weeks to arrange our guide scheduling. Summer 2025 walks will be on Sundays: June 29, July 27, August 31 and September 28.