Connecticut Explored - Connecticut History, One Good Story After Another

We’re Putting Connecticut On the Map!

admin — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:35:58 +0000

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In the new Spring issue 2012, we’re exploring “cartographically” what (and who) put Connecticut on the map. You’ll read about the circuitous route to settling our state boundaries, Connecticut's first map makers, Native American’s historic approach to land use, and more!

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First up, the state historian explains how King Charles II, in the Royal Charter of 1662, set the colony's generous boundaries—including our western boundary as the Pacific Ocean!

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You’ll also read about a Connecticut map from 1784 that recently sold at auction for $2 million dollars; about Rochambeau’s march across Connecticut to help General Washington and the Continental Army fight the British during the Revolutionary War; and you’ll learn how the rooftops of factories, barns, and municipal buildings helped aviators navigate during the 1920s.

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PLUS, you'll read about exhibitions, events, and museums you’ll want to visit this spring!

Subscribe now to receive this issue or order the issue online.

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Each issue of Connecticut Explored reveals something new about our state. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life, are new to the state, or now live elsewhere, you’ll deepen your appreciation of Connecticut’s unique and fascinating history. These Connecticut stories cannot be found anywhere else!

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What’s up next? The summer issue commemorates the bicentennial of the War of 1812—the conflict that some called the second war of independence. Find out how this event impacted Connecticut and why the state historian calls it, “The War Connecticut Hated.”

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I invite you to join me by subscribing. Our readers are lifelong learners and avid “Connecticutophiles.” Readers have told us they value:

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“The unique material presented in each issue! You just don't find that anywhere else,” and “The human stories that have made our state what it is today.”

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Begin your exploration of Connecticut history today. You’ll enjoy one good story after another!

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Elizabeth Normen

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Publisher

Spring Issue 2012: There’s a Map for That!

admin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:56:32 +0000

The Spring issue is in the mail to all subscribers. Subscribe now to receive it! This issue explores maps-- learn about the fascinating and complicated story behind our state boundaries, examine how the rooftops of barns, municipal buildings and factories helped aviators navigate during the 1930's, and read about how a Connecticut-made map from 1784 recently sold for $2 million. And, build up your appetite because we explore some of the best roadside eats historical Connecticut has to offer, and more! Subscribe today to receive the new Spring 2012 issue or purchase it online connecticutexplored.org/about/.

10th Anniversary–Celebrate with us!

admin — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:46:03 +0000

February 26, Opening reception, 1-3 p.m. Robert Charles Hudson, "Exploring the Underground Railroad, Stories in Quilts & Canvas," an exhibition of mixed media works by this fourth-generation quilter inspired by the Underground Railroad. Workshop with the artist (registration required) March 3. Exhibition on view through May 20, 2012. Hartford History Center, Hartford Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford.

We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year with great issues and special events. Click here for a listing and check back often as more events and details are added.

Learn from the State Historian!

admin — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:43:52 +0000

Begins March 29th! You are invited to register for a 4-part adult learning course on Connecticut History presented by the Presidents' College at the University of Hartford. In collaboration with CT Explored, State Historian Walt Woodward and Connecticut Historical Society director Kate Steinway will explore three nationally important historical themes in three weeks culminating in a final tour and reception. CT Explored subscribers may register at the discounted rate of $60. Register and find out more at hartford.edu/presidentscollege.

WINTER ISSUE GOES GLOBAL!

admin — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:26:36 +0000

We're busting out this issue. We usually explore Connecticut’s history within our state borders but with this issue, we’re featuring stories of our state's past exploits abroad. First up, our photo essay features early efforts to export Connecticut-made clocks, guns, sewing machines and more to Europe, Central and South America. Samuel Colt's London factory, opened in 1851, may be the first overseas factory established by a 19th century U.S. manufacturer!

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You’ll also read about the U.S.’s first black diplomat (from Connecticut, of course) appointed by President Grant and where he was stationed; about the Herbert Hoover protégé (and later a state senator) who helped bring food aid to Poland early in World War I; and you’ll join the Slater family as they sailed around the world on their Tiffany-decorated yacht in 1894--and more!

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PLUS, you'll read about exhibitions, events, and museums you’ll want to visit this winter!

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SPECIAL HOLIDAY OFFER! From now until December 31, 2011, you’ll receive two bonus issues free when you subscribe—that’s 6 issues for the price of 4!

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Subscribe now to receive this issue or order the issue online.
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Each issue of Connecticut Explored reveals something new about our state. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life, are new to the state, or now live elsewhere, you’ll deepen your appreciation of Connecticut’s unique and fascinating history. These Connecticut stories cannot be found anywhere else!
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What’s up next? We're celebrating our 10th Anniversary all year! The spring issue puts Connecticut "on the map," with stories that explain our state boundaries, explore Native American's historic approach to land use, quintessential town greens, where to find the best roadside food shacks--and more!
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I invite you to join me by subscribing. Our readers are lifelong learners and avid “Connecticutophiles.” Readers have told us they value:
***
“The unique material presented in each issue! You just don't find that anywhere else,” and “The human stories that have made our state what it is today.”
***
Begin your exploration of Connecticut history today. You’ll enjoy one good story after another!

Elizabeth Normen

Publisher

What’s on Deck for Summer 2012

admin — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 14:23:18 +0000

The summer issue commemorates the bicentennial of the War of 1812—the conflict that some called the second war of independence. Find out how this event impacted Connecticut and why the state historian calls it, “The War Connecticut Hated.” You'll read about the attacks by the British on Stonington and Essex, one that ended in victory and the other in defeat—and more!

Lincoln Exhibition in Hartford

admin — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 20:30:25 +0000

Visit the Hartford History Center at Hartford Public Library for "Abraham LIncoln: Self-Made in America," an exhibition on view through November 29, 2011 commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. The exhibition was organized by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Springfield, IL). You'll also see a remnant of the flag that flew over Fort Sumter on the day the Civil War began--part of Hartford Public Library's Hartford Collection! Click here for more information.

Hear State Historian Speak 9/18/11

admin — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:35:12 +0000

State Historian Walter Woodward will present a lecture, "The Burning Question of Nathan Hale," during the Presidents' College Showcase on September 18, 2011. The Presidents' College at the University of Hartford is a non-credit series of educational programs and lectures for adults. Each fall they present a sampling of upcoming courses in a day-long program of lectures and panel discussions. Professor Woodward's talk will be an introduction to a three-part course he'll offer next spring on Connecticut History as part of Connecticut Explored's 10th Anniversary celebration, in collaboration with the Presidents' College and the Connecticut Historical Society. For information on Showcase, September 18, 2011, visit www.hartford.edu/presidentscollege or call 860-768-4269.

Fall Issue Commemorates 10th Anniversary of 9/11

admin — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 22:16:37 +0000

10 years ago this September, the nation was forever changed by the tragedy of 9/11. Our fall issue remembers the fallen and celebrates the heroes that emerged on that day, and shows how Connecticans have responded to disasters throughout history.
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In this issue you’ll read:
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September 11, 2001: Connecticut Responds and Reflects. An in-depth look at the collective heroism of the first responders and the response of the state to the tragedy
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What a Disaster! A photo essay about six Connecticut disasters—from train wrecks to hurricanes
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Everyday Heroes. From the Connecticut town hardest hit by 9/11, a story of ordinary Greenwich residents who in times of life-threatening crisis have shown extraordinary courage
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America’s Tall Ship. How a World War II German training ship was reborn to train Coast Guard cadets out of New London
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I Wanted to Fly. How Connie Nappier got the opportunity to join the Tuskegee Airmen and become a pilot
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The Living 9/11 Memorial. A look at Sherwood Island State Park’s memorial to the fallen
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PLUS, exhibitions, events, and museums you’ll want to visit this fall!
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Subscribe now to receive this issue or order the issue online.
***
Each issue of Connecticut Explored reveals something new about our state. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life, are new to the state, or now live elsewhere, you’ll deepen your appreciation of Connecticut’s unique and fascinating history. These Connecticut stories cannot be found anywhere else!
***
What’s up next? The winter issue kicks off our 10^th anniversary year! We’ll step outside our borders to look at contributions of “Connecticans Abroad.”
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I invite you to join me by subscribing. Our readers are lifelong learners and avid “Connecticutophiles.” Readers have told us they value:
***
“The unique material presented in each issue! You just don't find that anywhere else,” and “The human stories that have made our state what it is today.”
***
Begin your exploration of Connecticut history today. You’ll enjoy one good story after another!

Elizabeth Normen

Publisher

Bus Tour Offered of Civil War Treasure Troves–Subscribers Get a Discount!

admin — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 22:23:09 +0000

Join Bill Hosley on September 24th for a day-long bus tour of Civil War treasure troves in Connecticut. The tour is sponsored by Connecticut Historical Society. Sign up on their site; they have a link right on their welcome page. CHS is offering the member discount to Connecticut Explored subscribers.

To hear Bill talking about the upcoming tour, listen in to Where We Live HERE.