To Download a Copy of This Newsletter

S TRATFORD H ISTORICAL S OCIETY U PDATE

he T CUPHEAG CORNER Capt. David Judson House c. 1750 VOLUME II, ISSUE 2 NOVEMBER 2019 Catharine B. Mitchell Museum

M A R K T H E DATES: NOVEMBER’S GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING Sunday, November 24th, 2:00 pm, Stratford Library Lovell Room, 2203 Main Street  November’s Gen- eral Membership tratford Historical Society there’s enough to go around if we’ll Meeting: Sunday, S Presents: only learn to take care of it.” November 24th at Christopher Wigren as he discuss- Brown added: “Go out and keep 2:00 pm at the es Connecticut’s architectural your eyes open. Enjoy every bit of it, Stratford Library gems. whether it’s on somebody’s list or not.  Governing Board Christopher Wigren doesn’t want And above all, guard it.” Meeting, Thursday, people to merely read his new Wigren dedicated his book to January 9th, 6pm, book, Connecticut Architecture: Brown, noting she had intended to Stratford Town Stories of 100 Places. He hopes write it. But after their decades of Hall, Room 213 we will go out and see for ourselves research together, she died in 2008. the state’s rich variety of sites and “I kind of inherited it,” Wigren says  January’s General during our talk in his office at the Membership Meet- even discover some we never knew ing: Sunday, Janu- existed. Perhaps even some that Connecticut Trust for Historic Preser- ary 26th at 2:00 didn’t make it into the book. vation in Hamden. Wigren, an archi- pm at the Strat- While Wigren was working on this Christopher Wigren tectural historian, is the Trust’s depu- ford Library 304-page compilation, a project of ty director. He and his colleagues the Connecticut Trust for Historic work out of what was once a board- INSIDE THIS Preservation, he often thought of All meetings are free and open to ing house for Eli Whitney’s workers, ISSUE: architectural historian and preserva- the general public. Please bring a who walked across Whitney Avenue tionist Elizabeth Mills Brown. She to his factory. William Sam- 2 friend! Donations are gratefully uel Johnson wrote in one of her books: accepted. Foregoing from the Connecticut “Architecture is for everyone, and Magazine, October 22, 2019, by Dateline 3 Randall Beach. Stratford ______October- ◊ November “Historical training should begin not in town archives, advised a popular historian, 1954 but in the quaint old streets where men had lived.” Women’s 4 John Richard Green, Stray Studies from England and Italy (London, 1876) ______Suffrage News ◊ Shakespeare 5 Theatre Groundbreak- SOCIETY NEWS: FLORA AND MORE... ing We have much news to share The Society participated in the New Blue gram. Stratford Historical Society 5 from 967 Academy Hill Road. First town’s celebration of William Samuel Goose Inn will receive a $1 donation for every off, Flora’s silhouette has been trans- Johnson Day on October 7th. Addi- $2.50 Community Bag sold at Stop ported, as part of NPG’s Black Out Stratford 5 tional detail are available on page 2 of & Shop located at 200 East Main Suffrage exhibit, to Birmingham, Alabama. this newsletter. Street, Stratford, in the month of We’ll be traveling to Birmingham in The Society hosted members of November. We hope you can help Uncharitable 6 November to take pictures of the the Hawley family during their reun- support this fund raiser for the Soci- Town Select- exhibit. In the meantime, should ion the first weekend of October. ety. men you be so inclined, you may find The Society provided a tour of the Birmingham’s online description of museum, Judson house, and historical Francis Bren- 6 Flora and the Black Out exhibit at Stratford sites. But for the rain, it nan Followup https://www.artsbma.org/exhibition/ was an enjoyable weekend. blackout. The Society participated in the This newsletter has been printed, T-Day Foot- 7 Town’s Arts and Culture Festival the intentionally, in black and white. weekend of September 7th, and the We’re hoping to save a bit of money Great Pumpkin Festival on October Veep Visits 7 for the society on printing costs. 19th. We were able to meet a num- Stratford Should you wish a color copy of the ber of Stratford residents and make newsletter, you may download a some new friends for the Society. Remembering 7 copy at We’re once again participating in John Poole www.stratford.historicalsociety.info. Stop & Shop’s Community Bag pro- P A G E 2 WILLIAM SAMUEL JOHNSON OBIT Christ Church and the Town the bench. General literature and al and national, and “seeking held wonderful commemora- taste were, if possible, at a still peace in the spirit of peace,” he tion services for William Sam- lower ebb among the profession. was frequently the happy instru- uel Johnson on October 5th Mr. Johnson, gifted with every ment of conciliation between the and October 7th. The Society external grace of the orator, a jealousies and tears of the small- participated by opening the voice of the finest and richest er states, and the claims of the Judson House on October 5th. tones, a copious and flowing great ones. The most peculiar The Town’s ceremony, at elocution, and a mind stor•ed with and original feature of our gov- Town Hall, included a recount- elegant literature, appeared at ernment, is understood to have ing of Dr. Johnson’s life by the bar with a fascination of been suggested by him. He first State Senator Kevin Kelly, a language and manner, which proposed the organization of the reading of a town proclamation those who heared [sic] him had senate as a distinct body, in which by Mayor Hoydick, musical never even conceived it possible the state sovereignties should be numbers by the Stratford High to unite with the technical ad- equally represented and guarded, Chorus and Band, and a special dress of an advocate. while the weight of population flag raising lowering the Union At the same time, he rendered might be felt in the house of Jack and raising the US Coloni- a still more important service to representatives. William Samuel Johnson c. al flag of 1783. his countrymen, by introducing to On the first organization of the 1800. Photo from In We also located William their knowledge the liberal deci- new constitution, Dr. J. was elect- Pursuit Paradise by Lew- Samuel Johnson’s obituary sions of Lord Mansfield, the doc- ed a senator in congress, and in is Knapp. from 1819. trines of the civilians, and after- that station largely contributed to wards (as more general questions form those institutions and to lay Connecticut Courant arose) the authorities and reason- down those rules which were November 23, 1819 ings of Grotius, Puffendorf, and hereafter to give to the new gov- DIED—On Sunday morning, the other great teachers of natu- ern•ment its energy and direction. The Bridgeport Post Nov. 14th, at his residence in ral and public law. Among other acts of great October 8, 1954 Stratford, (Conn.) in the 93d year He soon rose to the highest public importance the bill for SERVICES HONOR of his age, WILLIAM SAMUEL professional reputation, and after organizing the judiciary establish- DR. JOHNSON, SON JOHNSON, L. L. D. late President passing with honour through ment of the U. S. was drawn up Services commemorating of Columbia College, &c. almost all the respectable elective by him in concert with his col- the birthday anniversaries of Dr. Johnson was the eldest son offices of the colony, was sent in league Oliver Ellsworth. This was the late Dr. Samuel Johnson of the Rev. Dr. Johnson, the first 1766 by the colonial legislature, not only a work of much labour, and his son, William Samuel President of the College of this to England, as their Agent Ex- but of some address, as it was Johnson, pioneers in educa- city, a man to whom the religion traordinary, for the purpose of necessary to form a system which tion, and former Stratford and learning of this country are arguing before the royal council, a might not only answer the great residents, took place yester• indebted for many important great land cause of the highest ends of public justice, but at the day in Christ Episcopal services. He was born at Strat- importance to the colony. He same time preserve a great uni- church, Stratford, and at the ford, (Conn.) in 1727, and was remained in England until 1771. formity in the mode of its admin- burial ground on Monument educated at Yale College, where ...During this period, the Univer- istration and maintain the author- place... he received the degree of A B. in sity of Oxford conferred, upon ity of the national government, 1744. He afterwards pursued him the degree of Doctor of Civil without encroaching upon the his studies for some time at Har- Law, and he was elected a Fellow state jurisdictions or rudely inno- vard University, where he was of the Royal Society, on the rec- vating upon their established admitted to the degree of A. M. ommendation of Sir John Pringle, forms of practice. in 1747, and his name has for who was at that time its presi- About this period Columbia several years appeared in the dent. College which had fallen into catalogue of that institution, as After his return to his native decay during the war, was reor- the oldest living graduate. He country, he again applied himself ganized and began to attract then applied himself to the study to his profession, and some time some share of public attention of the law, and his first appear- after was appointed one of the and patronage. In 1792 Dr. ance at the bar, forms an epoch judges of the superior court of Johnson was elected to the presi- in the legal history of his native Connecticut. He also represented dency and continued to fill that state. The legal system of Con- the state for some years under station with great dignity and Raymond J. O'Connor, necticut was at that time, exceed- the old confederation. Upon the usefulness until 1800, when in president of the Chamber ingly crude, and the irregular calling of the convention at Phila- consequence of the infirmities of of Commerce; Dean Law- equity by which the courts were delphia, for the purpose of fram- advancing age he resigned his rence Chamberlain of guided was rather perplexed than ing a new constitution for the U. office and returned to his native enlightened, by occasional recur- S. Dr. J. was sent as delegate village, where he has ever since Columbia college; Patricia rence to a few of the older com- from his native state, in company resided. Cook, the Rev. Loyal Y. mon law authorities, which were with Ellsworth and Sherman. ...His name is strongly associat- Graham, III, and Donald respected without being under- Here he was eminently useful. ed with many of our most valua- Vitko marking William stood. Great as the talents of that illus- ble institutions, and will continue Samuel Johnson’s birth- Dalton's Sheriff and Justice of trious assembly were, yet its delib- to be venerable, as it has long day. Photo from The Peace, and one or two of the erations were often impeded by been dear, to his countrymen. Bridgeport Post, Octo- older books of Precedents, formed jarring interests and local feelings. N. Y. Evening Post. ber 8, 1954. the whole library of the bar and Dr. Johnson's views were all liber-

THE CUPHEAG CORNER VOLUME II, ISSUE 2 VOLUME II, ISSUE 2 P A G E 3 DATELINE STRATFORD OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 1954 The Hartford Courant England Division of the Army Engi- publicity; and W. Howard Wilcoxson, October 12, 1954 neers Corps announced today that the historian. 1755 Johnson Letter Among Connecticut State Highway Depart- Guest speaker will be Richard Gray- Items to be Presented to DAR ment has asked approval of plans to son, who will discuss “Shakespeare Tuesday build a fixed highway bridge across the Comes to Stratford on the Washington, Oct. 11—A letter writ- Housatonic River between Stratford Housatonic.” Mr. Grayson is the ten by William Samuel Johnson of and Milford, Conn. Executive Coordinator of the Ameri- Stratford to Oliver Wolcott at Litch- ...The bridge apparently will be part can Shakespeare Festival Theater and field, and a receipt for a debenture of of the $400,000,000 expressway Academy. He has had wide stage the Superior Court signed by Roger Connecticut is building between Green- experience and recently appeared on Lions Club and Pattie Gunther, Sherman are the two Connecticut wich and Killingly. the United States Steel Television The Stratford News, October items in the collection of letters and program. 14, 1954. papers by signers of the United States Sunday Herald Mrs. Herbert Parsons, hospitality Constitution to be formally presented November 7, 1954 chairman, will be assisted by Mrs. to the national society DAR here Tues- Good Living Homes Rexford Nettleton, Mrs. Arthur Amiott day. There’s a new kind of home develop- and Mrs. Clarissa Wilson. ment debuting today in Stratford— The Stratford News Good Living Homes, which despite The Stratford News October 21, 1954 their amazingly low prices include November 26, 1954 PRELIMINARY PLANS FOR the features never before offered in Con- Paraders 19, Milford 13 Shakespeare Theater and Academy necticut. Stratford’s North Paraders, behind have been released this week by thea- Two model homes—a split level and a hard-running running ground attack ter officials. The plans call for the a ranch—will be open for your inspec- and a rugged defense, handed Mil- Holy Name Doves Little League theater site in the center of the Shore tion today from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. and ford High School a 19-13 defeat in Road area surrounded by the Elizabe- continuing throughout the week during the annual Thanksgiving Day duel Title Winners, The Stratford than Gardens and adequate parking the same hours. (Freeman and Fern- witnessed by more than 5,500 fans News, October 14, 1954. areas. Seventy-five percent of the dale Avenues). at Washington Field. project funds have been raised to date The win marked the 13th time in with the remaining funds needed by The Stratford News the 32-year old series that Stratford January 1st in order to have the thea- November 18, 1954 has won. They have also lost 13 ter operating by next Summer. Theater Exec. To Address games and tied seven. Historians A steady ground attack led by Tony Sunday Herald The regular bi-monthly meeting of Carbone, Joe Butovsky and John October 24, 1954 the Stratford Historical Society will be Hajus netted a total of 175 yards Gold Shovels to Start Shake- held Friday, November 19 at 8 p.m. in and kept the Paraders in charge Polka Dot Playhouse actors speare Theater the Methodist Hall. throughout. Katharine Cornell and Mrs. Frances- New officers scheduled to take over rehearsing for “Mrs. McThing” ca Lodge will turn the Stratford soil their duties at the meeting include: Sunday Herald play, Sunday Herald, October today at 4 o’clock in a co-starting, Robert W. Scott, president; Mrs. W. November 28, 1954 31, 1954. historic performance to mark the birth Earle Hawley, first vice-president; Stratford Society Offers To of America’s Shakespeare Theater. Elliott W. Peck, second vice-president; Erect 16-inch Telescope “Digging Shakespeare the most,” Mrs. G. T. Greeley, third vice-president; Stratford star-gazers will get a the distinguished actress and the Gov- and Anne Richardson, recording secre- brand new observatory, complete with ernor’s wife will each operate a ber- tary. a 16” telescope, if the town council ibboned, all—gold shovel, before a Also Mrs. Rexford Nettleton, corre- accepts a proposal made this week super-celeb audience. sponding secretary; Edmund H. Judson by the Boothe Memorial Astronomical Jr., treasurer; Mrs. Clark P. Lane, mem- Society, Inc. The Hartford Courant bership chairman; Lucy McCabe, pro- Albert Farian, Society president, has Tony Carbone scores winning November 4, 1954 gram chairman; Mrs. Herbert Parsons, announced that the group has offered TD against Milford (19-13) in Army Approval Asked For hospitality; Mrs. John Richardson, me- to construct an observatory and tele- Thanksgiving Day game, The Housatonic Bridge morials; Mrs. Frank Sammis, house scope on the Western-most edge of Stratford News, November 26, BOSTON, Nov. 3 (AP) - The New chairman; Mrs. Edmund H. Judson Jr., town-owned Boothe Memorial Park. 1954. NOW SHOWING OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 1954 October 3rd Egyptian Edmund Purdom, Gene Tierney, Gene Simmons October 10th Rear Window James Stewart, Grace Kelly October 17th The Shanghai Story Ruth Roman, Edmund O'Brien October 24th Sabrina Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn, William Holden October 31st Woman's World Clifton Webb, June Allison, Van Heflin, Lauren Bacall November 7th Brigadoon Gene Kelly, Van Johnson, Cyd Charisse November 14th Sitting Bull J. Carrol Naish, Dale Robertson November 21st Bengal Brigade Rock Hudson, Arlene Dahl Stratford Theater c 1946 November 28th Four Guns to the Border Rory Calhoun, Colleen Miller, Walter Brennan P A G E 4 CT STATE SUFFRAGE CELEBRATIONS The year 2020 marks 100 From a paper by Mrs. politics women were acquiring years since the passage of the Charles Downing Lay and how they were preparing 19th amendment giving all As I remember them, the or- themselves for the recognition female U.S. citizens the right to ganizers and charter members of which some of them have re- vote. Your Historical Society the Stratford Woman Suffrage ceived. plans to participate with the Association were a group of ex- state in observing the centenni- ceptional women, educated prob- Edith Hastings al celebrations. Among other ably above the average. Most of The Bridgeport Telegram things we will be doing, we will them, I believe, housewives rather February 18, 1925 be recognizing, here in our than the professional or working WOMEN VOTERS TO The official website for newsletter some of the Strat- class, with some time to devote to ATTEND FUNERAL OF Connecticut’s celebration ford women who made signifi- civic affairs and a keen apprecia- MISS HASTINGS of the Suffrage Centennial cant contributions to our town tion of the possible value of a STRATFORD, Feb. 17.—(By is https:// and country. woman outside as well as inside Telegram Service.) ... Miss Edith votesforwomenct.com. You may be interested in the home. Not one of them was Hastings,...who for many years what other towns in Connecti- of the militant suffragette or played an active role in the move- cut will be doing to mark the feminist type and, as I said be- ment for equal rights... centennial Suffrage year. Con- fore, they responded to the call Miss Hastings was one of the necticut’s official Suffrage Cen- and became an inconspicuous pioneers in the woman suffrage tennial website is https:// perhaps but none the less neces- movement in Connecticut. For votesforwomenct.com where sary cog in the machine which many years, she worked in the you may follow along with they believed necessary to movement to secure the vote for what the state and towns are strengthen and enlarge their women and after equal suffrage doing in observance of the sphere of usefulness. Among had become a fact, she continued Centennial. them Mrs. LeRoy Lewis started her activities as a member of the One fun way to mark the her political career as first presi- Stratford League of Women Centennial Celebration would dent, Miss Edith Hastings, Voters. She was well known be to participate in the 19th never to be forgotten for her throughout Fairfield county and Amendment Centennial Scav- devotion, seldom holding the state for her active work in enger Hunt. You may learn office but always a power the woman's political movement, more about the scavenger hunt and drive behind those who attended many conventions and at https://www.ctbar.org/ had to do the difficult jobs. meetings, and even when the e v e n t s - education/19th - Mrs. Sherwood Day, one of sever- infirmities of age came upon her, Edith Hastings photo from a m e n d m e n t - c e n t e n n i a l - al who had a mind of her own maintained an active interest in The Suffrage News Bul- scavenger-hunt. besides a family to care for, and the woman's movement. letin, August 1918, Hart- For the month of November, the invaluable unmarried women, Miss Hastings was also interest- ford. we’d like to recognize Strat- Miss Alice Judson and Miss ed in the parish work of Christ ford’s best known Maude Hull. I could go on re- Episcopal church,… She lived for “Suffragette”, Edith Hastings. calling the splendid work of Mrs. years in the beautiful old Hastings Edith was involved in every Frank Sammis, Mrs. Rosella Lov- mansion at Elm street and Strat- aspect of Stratford’s Suffrage ell, Miss Frances Russell always ford avenue, where many gather- movement. She went on to active in town affairs, and Mrs. ings of women interested in the become one of the founders of Sterling Filmer who later served subject of the participation of the Connecticut League of on the school board. All these and women in politics were held. Women’s Voters. their successors did much that In the Historical Society’s was like missionary and teaching March 1999 Update Newslet- work to bring about the ratifica- ter page 2 reads: tion in Connecticut of the Federal In 1925 the Stratford League of Amendment for equal suffrage. Women Voters planted an Oak Automobiles were not so nu- Tree on Academy Hill...We are merous in those days and the few interested in learning more about of us who could drive spent many Edith Hastings, and would appre- hours calling from house to house ciate receiving information con- with petitions to be signed and Plaque (above) reads: cerning her and the League. sometimes stopping to argue. A bronze tablet located on In Memory of While it may be 20 years Others attempted to talk to peo- the ground floor inside the Edith Hastings later, we have found much ple at the county fairs and make south entrance to the Con- Planted by the Stratford information about Miss Has- appearances before the legisla- necticut Capitol building League of tings. Her name appeared with ture in Hartford where we were honors the women from Women Voters regularity in our local newspa- always at least courteously lis- Connecticut that led the pers. Her fellow Stratford tened to. This sort of thing was of November I925. fight for women's suffrage. Suffragette’s fondly remem- course going on simultaneously all Edith Hastings is the only Plaque and oak tree bered her with a monument over the country and when one Stratford woman named on dedicated to Edith Has- on Academy Hill which stands stops to think of it, one can ac- tings on Academy Hill the plaque (center column, Josephine Salerno to this day facing the Judson count for the rapid increase of facing the Judson House. House. knowledge in the field of practical top row).

THE CUPHEAG CORNER VOLUME II, ISSUE 2 VOLUME II, ISSUE 2 P A G E 5 SHAKESPEARE THEATRE GROUNDBREAKING Sunday Herald The Hartford Courant when the new Shakespearian Theater October 24, 1954 October 25, 1954 is opened next summer.” he said. Gold Shovels to Start Stage Stars Break Ground For “The great thing about this theater is Shakespeare Theater Shakespeare Theater that actors and actresses will, at long Katharine Cornell and Mrs. Frances- STRATFORD, Oct 24 (AP)- Promi- last, have a place in which to practice ca Lodge will turn the Stratford soil nent stage personalities took part their craft.” today at 4 o’clock in a co-starring today in ground breaking ceremonies Lodges Have Part historic performance to mark the birth for the American Shakespearian Gov. Lodge and his wife, the former of America’s Shakespeare Theater. Theater and Academy, hailed as an Francesea Braggiotti, both former “Digging Shakespeare the most,” institution that will make Stratford “a actors, had a part in the ceremony. the distinguished actress and the Gov- mecca for theater lovers throughout Mrs. Lodge and Katharine Cornell, ernor’s wife will each operate a ber- the world.” introduced as the first lady of the ibboned, all—gold shovel, before a A modernized version of London American stage, turned the first shov- super-celeb audience. theater of Shakespeare's time is to be els full of earth. MAURICE EVANS HERE built in a natural, broad amphitheater The Governor, unable to attend, Maurice Evans will speak. He is on a 12-acre site overlooking the sent this message, read by Mrs. expected also to close the ceremonies Housatonic River. Lodge: with a reading from the Stratford, 500 Attend Ceremonies “The influence of Shakespeare in England-born bard. Lawrence Langner of the Theater America has been profound, and we Almost as historic as the ground— Guild chairman of the board of trus- in Connecticut take special pride that breaking will be the watchers: Judith tees of the Shakespeare Foundation, the great dramatist, the creator of so Anderson, Basil Rathbone, Blanche told a crowd of 500 at today's cere- much beauty, is to be specially hon- Yurka, Betty Field, Madeleine Carroll, mony that if money-raising plans go ored in our state.” Actress Katharine Cornell, Studio One’s Worthington Miner, Jean as expected, the theater will see its Settled On Site Council Chair D. James Dalrymple, Peggy Wood. first production next summer. Noting that in 1639 the original Morey, and actor Maurice Lawrence Langner, father of the non Three - quarters of the necessary settlers of Stratford disembarked on Evans break ground for the -profit project what will build a theater $500,000 already has been raised, the theater's site, Miss Cornell said: Shakespeare Theatre. Pho- on the Housatonic River exactly like he said, and if the balance is received “They brought with them as a to from The Hartford the one over the Thames where by Jan. 1, the theater can begin oper- heritage the King James version of the Courant, October 25, Shakespeare was first played, will ating next summer. Bible and the language of William 1954. speak. Maurice Evans, noted for his por- Shakespeare. Today, we of the The assemblage include William trayals of Hamlet. Richard II and American theater dedicate this land Gaxton, Clarence Derwent, Frances MacBeth, expressed confidence the to the genius of the poet whose im- Fuller, Viveca Lindfors, and Gladys schedule would be met. mortal plays will serve forever as a Swarthout.—E.B. “Stratford will become a mecca for bond among the peoples of the theater lovers throughout the world world.”

PROPOSED NEW BLUE GOOSE INN The Bridgeport Post Provision has been made for off checking was for naught and that cations at meeting late in the week. October 1, 1954 street parking of 225 autos. The the backers of the petitions have “Several Lordship residents will Thruway Moves Blue Goose place will be completely air condi- more than enough legitimate signers. question the legality of the Planning Inn tioned and the exterior will be land- TEST WEDNESDAY Board hearing while no decision has Stratford’s oldest eating place and scaped. The Council meets Oct. 11 and been reached on the petitions," he meeting room for civic, fraternal and The present building housing the will have to decide whether to said. social organizations is to be torn Blue Goose Inn was erected late in change its position or throw the down to make way for the thruway, 1700, according to the town history, entire liquor question open to a the Spada family, owners of Spada’s and has been used as an eating referendum. Blue Goose Inn, on Ferry Boulevard, place more than a quarter of a Before the Council eliminated it, announced today. century. the controversial provision made it Louis Spada and his four sons, E. impossible to establish any liquor Frederick, Frank, Andrew and Ernest, Sunday Herald business in a residential zone. who have operated the inn many October 3, 1954 The first test of the Council action years, hope to replace it with a mod- Council's on Spot In Liquor may come Wednesday evening when ern structure to cost $125,000 and Bottle the Planning and Zoning Board have applied to the Town Planning Stratford's “battle of the petitions” hears the application of Ernest Spa- and Zoning board for necessary is headed back to the Town Council da of the Blue Goose Restaurant. zone changes on Ferry Boulevard with 2,000 checked, re-checked and He is seeking a change in zone for south of Willow avenue… triple-checked signatures still de- property on Ferry Blvd. so that he The plan calls for a building of manding that the Council rescind its can erect a new liquor-serving res- modern structure, with a seating action in eliminating a liquor-outlet taurant, which would replace his capacity of 500 person. There will provision from the zoning regula- thruway-kayoed eatery. be a cocktail lounge, two dining tions. Carl Tuthill, president of the Lord- rooms, tavern room and director’s Town Clerk W. Howard Wilcoxson ship Improvement Assn., said that room. admitted yesterday that all the extra his group discussed the Spada appli- Spada’s Blue Goose Inn c. 1933. P A G E 6 UNCHARITABLE TOWN SELECTMEN 2020 Calendar of The Bridgeport Evening the invalid gave expressions of and was indeed comfortable. We Meetings Farmer pain and sickness which the will not go into further details in Sunday, January 26th October 22, 1869 tongue could not describe, and he regard to his medical care, but Sunday, March 29th “Ephraim’s” Stratford was accordingly assisted into an will say that the gentleman who Sunday, May 31st Gossip. adjoining building, when this manifested his good will toward a Saturday, Sept. 26th We have striven ever since we charitable person immediately set fellow sufferer went about among assumed the cognomen of to work applying remedies to the neighbors to raise a subscrip- Sunday, November 22nd “Ephraim” to avoid all personal relieve the distressed man. Be- tion to aid in defraying the or degrading allusions in that lieving that the aid of a physician stranger’s expenses to the east, All meetings will be held which we have so feebly written; was necessary, he wended is way and that he was quite successful at 2pm in the Lovell but, notwithstanding this we have to the residence of the selectman at a house near the Methodist Room at the Stratford done what seemed to be our duty in his district, informed him of the Church, where lives a lady who is Library. in recording events of interest to case, and requested that Dr. Gray the treasurer of some fund for the public and in censuring that be called to attend the unfortu- the benefit of the poor, and who, which is wholly wrong. A case nate man. As might have been upon learning the circumstances, has been related to us which expected, the only consoling with an heart overflowing with happened recently, in which it is words be received were in sub- sympathy, untied the purse reported our newly-elected Re- stance: “The case is beyond my strings, and out rolled the money publican selectmen forgot the jurisdiction - I have no power sufficient for the sufferer. The

golden rule and the practice of vested in me to employ a doctor young man, when able, took his the duties which one man owes for an unknown traveler, and departure, feeling immeasureably another when placed in imminent besides it will cost the town three [sic] grateful for the kindness. New Business Member peril. It seems, as our informant dollars, perhaps.” This took our There are four of our townspeo- We wish to extend a relates, that a respectable young good hearted citizen by sur- ple alluded to in this article; draw warm welcome to our man (probably without a friend in prise—confounded him to almost the contrast between the two newest business mem- this section of the State,) was speechlessness, and after a few functionaries and the two latter ber: walking upon the New Haven unavailing remarks started for models of human society. There American Rosie the railroad, some rods east of the another one of these “great mor- is room for an abundance of Riveter depot, and was taken violently, al idea men” in another section of comment, but it is useless to Association—Corsair and, it was feared, dangerously the town, only to be to a like waste valuable space in decrying Chapter sick, and was forced to lie down manner repulsed in his errand of the purity of the Radical office upon the bank. At this time, one mercy. He immediately turned holders. Just let us see, Messrs. of those honest, christian people upon his heel and started for Selectmen, should another such who live up to what they preach, home where he arrived to find case happen, a spark of humani- discovered and approached him fortunately that the stranger had ty in your conduct. with “What is the matter, my become greatly relieved and friend?" But the upturned face of invigorated by his applications FRANCIS BRENNAN FOLLOWUP As a follow-up to our Janu- head of a stone contracting firm, feet from Robert, the ice which ary 2019 newsletter story, a former Bridgeport fire commis- Robert held broke; and Robert “It’s a Wonderful Life— sioner and was Democratic candi- was submerged. Stratford Style”, we were date for Fairfield County Sheriff "Brennan swam under the pleased to come across the four years ago. surface to a point a foot under following news story of Mr. A resume of the deed for which the ice, took hold of Robert's Brennan being recognized for he was awarded the medal, re- jacket, swam backwards, and his heroic efforts in rescuing leased by the Carnegie Commis- rose in the open water. He then three boys from drowning late sion, reads: swam with effort, towing Robert in 1943 and early 1944. "Brennan saved Kenneth A. to wadeable water." and Robert E. Mackas, aged The Hartford Courant seven and nine, respectively, from We also, recently, found a October 28, 1944 drowning at Stratford, Conn., Bridgeport Evening Post Stratford Housing Direc- December 23, 1943. report of an earlier pond res- tor Awarded Carnegie Robert walked on ice on a cue in Stratford. On October Bronze Medal For pond close to an area of open 29, 1894, one Lewis Burritt, a Heroism water that extended 20 feet from clerk in the employ of the L.H. Pittsburgh, Oct. 27.—AP.)— the bank; and the ice broke un- Todd & Co. (forerunner of the Francis J. Brennan of Bridgeport, der him. He got hold of the ice. H.C. Lovell Co.), rescued a Conn., director of the Stratford, Kenneth ran on the ice to Robert, young daughter of W. E. Hine’s Francis Brennan from the Oc- Conn., Housing Authority, has broke through, and got on Rob- from a watery grave in “Silbys tober 28, 1944 Hartford been awarded a Bronze Medal ert's back. pond”. Mr. Burritt bravely Courant for saving two boys from drown- "Brennan, fully clothed, waded jumped in and rescued the girl. ing in a Stratford pond two days from the bank and then swam The parents are very grateful to before Christmas last year, the 12 feet, took hold of Kenneth, the young man. Carnegie Hero Fund Association and swam 15 feet to wadeable Stratford has raised some announced today. water. Brennan then swam to- amazing citizens over its long Brennan, who is 60 years old, is ward Robert. When he was 10 history!

THE CUPHEAG CORNER VOLUME II, ISSUE 2 VOLUME II, ISSUE 2 P A G E 7 HOW ABOUT SOME THANKSGIVING DAY FOOTBALL? Bridgeport Evening Post score they got and it counted for four. Seasides on the Warwick avenue was carried by the Eagles into the November 30, 1894 The next touchdown went to Osceo- grounds was a match between the T.A.C.’s territory. At one time the SUBURBAN NEWS las but they had to fight for it; the T.A.C.’s of Bridgeport and the Eagle Eagles only lacked about five feet of The Foot Ball Game Seasides did some of their heaviest Athletic club of this town on the Bun- making a touchdown but their oppo- If as is reported the Seasides of playing in this bout and several of the nell grounds. Play was called at 11 nents put forth every possible exer- Bridgeport expected a “cinch” in their Stratford boys were put to sleep, but o’clock with the kick off by the visiting tion and by almost miraculous play game with the Osceolas yesterday they the ball kept moving yard by yard club. The home eleven soon returned worked the ball down into the Eagle’s got it in the neck instead., and scored toward Stratford goal until by a skilful the ball to the centre of the field territory where it remained until the only one touchdown, through a fluke [sic] manouver [sic] Stephens made where it remained for most of the end of the half neither side having failing to kick goal. The two sides lined a touchdown with Seaside in hot but first half. At the sound of the refer- scored. up at 9:30, Stratford holding the ball. hopeless chase. J. J. Chaffe was refer- ee’s whistle the ball was in the territo- With the exception of a trifling Seaside tried to get it but Stephens, F. ee and Edwin Moore of Bridgeport ry of the home team, with no score to scrapping match between two of the B. to Osceolas, passed it to Captain umpire. The game was witnessed by either’s credit. The friends of both players at the latter part of the game, Coe who flew over the field and got a a large number of ladies and gentle- teams were present in large numbers the contest was a very clean one. touchdown in splendid style. Seaside men, several of the latter were be- and at the beginning of the second Both teams evidently were well took the ball but lost it and the Osceo- tween 60 and 75 years old. half they made the air resound with matched. Especially good was the las got it almost to goal but fumbled it; Another Match. cheers for their respective teams. tackling of Will Wheeler who without Seaside recaptured it and carried it Immediately following the foot ball The battle was fiercely waged and doubt at two different stages of the easily over their goal, this was the only game between the Osceolas and after about fifteen minutes the ball game prevented the T.A.C.s from scoring... VEEP VISITS STRATFORD While the story of Vice-president C. Schwable, as head of the town Needs Maggie Henry Wallace’s visit to Stratford government. Vice Pres. Henry A. Wallace came was a full-page story in the Sunday Mr. Wallace’s motorcade started to Fairfield county Thursday...From Herald, it received scant notice in from Bridgeport for a general tour of the campus of Stratford High school, The Stratford News. the county. The vice president was where Maggie (Margaret F. Con- accompanied by Miss Margaret Con- nors) tossed her flowers among The Stratford News nors, candidate for congress, and by 2,000 deliriously happy school chil- November 3, 1944 other local nominees. dren, to Greenwich, where they ad- Vice President Wallace and Dismissal of the High School pupils dressed a packed auditorium, the Party Stop in North Parade in order that they might see Mr. Democratic congressional nominee Touring Fairfield County in the inter- Wallace threw recollections back for and her guest presented a picture of ests of Democratic candidates, Vice four years; the student body was wholesome sincerity. Margaret Connors, VP Wallace chat in President Henry A. Wallace made a released briefly in 1940 when Wen- Here was a man whose practical Stratford with, l to r, Atty. Mary brief pause in North Parade late dell L. Willkie stopped at the same achievements as a farmer, and whose Coughlin Hausman, Mrs Dennis Kellen, Thursday morning, being greeted by a spot. unquestioned Americanism have won and James Paul Warburg. Bridgeport crowd of voters and about the entire for him the respect and admiration of Herald, November 5, 1944. population of Stratford High School. Sunday Herald his bitterest political foes... The vice president was received November 5, 1944 formally, by Council Chairman Carleton Wallace Tells Why FDR REMEMBERING JOHN D. POOLE It is with a great deal of remorse historical society. class of 1988. He recently retired that we announce the passing of John’s interests and talents were from a long career as a Computer our friend, and Building & Grounds many and varied. We offer the Software Engineer, most recently with chairman, John D. Poole. John following from John’s obituary in Oracle Fusion Adaptive Intelligence. came to our Society Governing the Connecticut Post: Among his many activities and inter- Board a couple of years ago to offer John D. Poole, age 59 of Milford, ests were rowing as a member of the his support and advice as the Presi- passed away at home with hospice New Haven Rowing Club, and historic dent of the Derby Historical Socie- care on October 26, 2019. John was preservation as a member of Milford ty. John’s expertise in fund raising, born in Bronxville, NY, September 25, Preservation Trust, the Stratford governance, and old buildings was 1960, son of the late John R. and Historical Society, and as President of much welcomed by the Governing Josephine Chmiel Poole. John was a the Derby Historical Society. He also Board. John always had helpful lifelong Stratford resident and gradu- had a passion for Colonial-era Timber John Poole at the Judson suggestions when called upon for ated from Stratford High School class frame homes and Sustainable Green House September 2015. his opinion, or advice, on matters of 1978, SCSU class of 1983, and Energy Home Restoration. Photo from John’s Face- related to running the affairs of an NYU Tandon School of Engineering book profile pictures. ANNAMAE ANDREWS’ SCRAPBOOKS

nnamae Andrews graduated from Stratford High in Gladys Jubb as faculty adviser Pritchard. The committee was headed by Helen A 1937. From 1932 until 1945, Annamae kept scrap- even at this early date in her Perkowska, assisted by Miss Elsie Eklund. books of newspaper photos and articles she found long Stratford career). The Latin club of Stratford high school enjoyed an important or interesting. Below are newspaper photos automobile trip to New York last weekend. The Met- from June 1934 of Alice Small, Donald Cowdery, and Emmy Stratford High ropolitan Museum of Arts was visited. The U. S. Navy Lou Nothnagle. Below, is one of Annamae’s saved newspa- June 21, 1934 Fleet was also visited. The group enjoyed a show and per articles describing a Stratford High party. Perhaps be- A “Gay Nineties” party was supper. cause she retained this newspaper article, we may assume held at the Stratford high school Annamae attended the party. (Note the reference to Miss recently. It was given by the U. S. History club, under the lead- ership of Miss Marguerite Kol- lar, president; Miss Gladys Jubb, and Miss Anne Paris, faculty advisors. The entertainment was headed by Miss Suzanne Gregory. The popular songs, satire po- ems of that period were re- vived. A satire poem was given by Helen Perkowska. Margnuerite Kollad sang one of the songs common in the period. A reading was presented by Jean Sturrock. Mountaineer melodies were played and sung by Michael Bilchak. Viola Day did one of her unique dances. Games were played and the persons with the highest scores received prizes. They were Edward Cranson and Edgar

Stratford Historical Society 967 Academy Hill Rd P.O. Box 382 Stratford, CT 06615

Phone: (203) 378-0630 Fax: (203) 378-2562 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]

The best we can do about the past is to keep the memories alive!