Milford Living Spring 2021

Spring 2021 Vol. 18 Issue 1 $5.99

Ryan Raveis

Co-President

Bill Raveis

Chairman & CEO

Chris Raveis Co-President

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Feature

34

40

Local Artists at Local Galleries

By Makayla Silva

Milford’s Founding Mothers

By Cindy Papish Gerber

Departments 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 24 28 46 50 58 60 62 63 64

Publisher’s Letter Readers’ Letters This Season What’s New Milford Green At Home Milford Spotlight Art and Artisans Family Time Milford Morsels Education Notebook Historical Perspective Congratulations Expressions Milford Attic Greetings from Milford Where is It?

About the cover: Milford’s landmark gazebo under full spring bloom.

Photo by Cathy Leite. View more of Cathy’s work by visiting: cathyleitephotography.com

2021 • Milford Living 1

Here’s the deal.

I’ll be there for you.

SPRING 2021 VOLUME 18 • ISSUE 1 Publisher/President Suzanne Cahill Suzanne@milfordliving.com

Editorial Director Carlson Insurance Agcy Inc Wanda Carlson, Agent 415 Boston Post Rd Milford, CT 06460 Bus: 203-877-9203

Ann McGuire

The future has a lot of what ifs, and it’s a good feeling to have someone in your corner and around the corner to help you plan for them. Call me today.

Art Director Ryan Swanson

Associate Publisher Susan Carroll-Dwyer

Advertising Director Joy Haines

Account Executive

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Mary Jo Downs

Contributing Photographers

Bill Canfield, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Sherry Lynn Johnson, Cathy Leite, Maryalice Manning, Meredith Moran, Beth Plonsky

Contributing Editors

State Farm Bloomington, IL

Tracy Farricker, McKenzie Granata

2001293

Contributing Writers

Sophia Avitabile, Suzanne Cahill, Cheryl Cappiali, Susan Carroll Dwyer, Susan Glennon, Shaileen Kelly Landsberg, Marilyn May, Gerry McGuire, Cindy Papish Gerber, Makayla Silva

Production Assistance Kevin Maher, Wendy Macomber, Todd Manning, Tamara Simpson

Web Design Mario Recupido

REAL ESTATE | SALES | LEASING | PROPERTY SERVICES

Interns

Anna Downs, Bridget Dwyer, Maryalice Manning

What we write gets read.

Milford Living Magazine 162 Bridgeport Avenue Milford CT 06460 203-283-5290 http://www.milfordliving.com

Milford Living Magazine (ISSN 1547-4429) is distributed quarterly by Red Mat Publishing. P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher. Subscription Rates: U.S. $23.96. Newsstand: $5.99. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460. Please allow six to eight weeks for subscription processing. Copyright 2003-2021 Red Mat Publishing.www.redmatpublishing.com

You can count on the “Key Team” for your next move!

Opinions expressed in Milford Living Magazine articles and advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, respectively, and should not be considered as expressions of management or official policies of Milford Living Magazine. www.redmatpublishing.com

354 Woodmont Road, Suite 17 Milford, CT 06460 A distinctive voice in custom publishing 203.301.4419 | www.KeyRealtyCT.com 2 Milford Living • Spring

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publisher’s letter Dear Friends,

Hello Spring! We welcome you to the latest edition of Milford Living!

We’ve seen quite a number of new faces around town this year, and to those who have recently joined our community, we send a heartfelt welcome.

I’ve fallen in love with spending time outdoors, and I say this as I grit my teeth during these early spring days and step outside repeating the Norwegian mantra, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes.”

For the first time in a long while, I see the parents of young ones wave an arm and recite those magical words: “Go out and play!” With the Covid crisis seeming to slowly release its grip, kids relish the chance to be fearless. Finding escape from technology in the outdoors is a welcome respite for both the young and old, and as the daylight hours grow longer, we shed our winter woolens to venture into our gardens, yards, neighborhood, and community. En masse we move forward into the fervent green landscape, celebrating spring, and ever mindful of each other and the caring community that keeps us connected.

We hope you enjoy this issue of Milford Living and that you share it with those you love and those that love Milford. As we celebrate our 18th year of publication, we thank you for your continued support and offer a reminder to renew your subscription this season. For your convenience, a subscription card is enclosed. We enjoy hearing from you too, so drop us a line with your story suggestions and pictures you’d like us to share.

Warm wishes for a joyful spring season, Suzanne

Milford’s #1 Real Estate Office in Listings Sold

For More Than a Decade

Judie DiFranco

Sue DuBrow

Alicia Hale

Ken Hawkins

Robin Helburn

Kathy Anderson

Sandy Burnell

Kelly Durrschmidt

Lisa English

Sarah Ferrante

Kelly Hill-Mihalyak

Donna Howe

Marilyn Hurteau

Paige Jenney

Ruth Korpita

Beth Lopez

Debi McGinley

Sophia Messore

Laura Kelleher-Nichols

Lorna Nichols

Barbara Oliver

Sean O’Neil

Porto RE Group

Christine Shaw

Victoria Stillings

Donna Tartagni

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Barbara Zink

Jill Shaw

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Peter Chapman

Mary Anthony

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Christopher La Bianca Christy Lindsay

(203) 878-7424 • www.coldwellbankerhomes.com • 171 N. Broad Street *Based on SmartMLS data for single family/condo listing closed in Milford 2001-2020

readers’ letters My wife Maureen McCoy Riley and I look forward to receiving Milford Living Magazine.

The past issue (Winter 2021) was especially wonderful in reading the article on Stanley Kavan, his history and The Delicious Little Book of Love, Laughter, and Tears. I went to grammar and high school with his children. I remember a crystal sculpture that Johnny Mathis had sent to Mr. Kavan for Christmas in 1960. It was so nice to see that Mr. Kavan is well, active, and writing. Like most World War II heroes, he was humble in his service. Thank you so much for this well-deserved article, and way to go Mr. Kavan!

—William and Maureen Riley, Capistraino Beach, CA

Drop us a line…

Thank you for sharing your memories with us! We appreciate and celebrate our Milford seniors throughout the magazine whenever we can. It is the stories passed from generation to generation that help to keep the rich history of the community we share alive for future generations.

Why not interview Bob Christopher? He is 99 years old, a journalist and a photographer who still has stories from all around the world.

—Hedwige L. Keupper, Milford, CT

We were saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Christopher in December 2020. He will be missed by the many that knew him. We enjoyed his visits to our offices and the uplifting stories he shared with all of us. A world traveler for most of his life, Bob was included in the Autumn 2008 issue of Milford Living. His inspiring words, “Love what you do, and do what you love,” were the hallmark of a life well lived.

Please send your comments, contributions, suggestions, and questions to Milford Living Magazine P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT 06460 or email our publisher at: suzanne@milfordliving.com

6 Milford Living • Spring

this season

Native Garden Charmers

N

ative plant species provide nectar, pollen, seeds, and berries that feed our native butterflies, insects, birds, and other animals. By being adapted to the local climate and soil conditions where they occur, they require less care than grass lawns once they are established and on hilly areas you will also reduce erosion. Some native plants have very deep root systems and can significantly reduce water runoff and flooding. Yet another plus to growing native plants instead of grass is they remove carbon from the air, and they require no mowing! not too thickly or too close. Healthy soil

are creating a sustainable ecosystem where

contains a multitude

wildlife can thrive. If pollinators find their

of living creatures

favorite nectar, pollen, and host food for their

that facilitate

offspring in abundance, they will lay eggs and

plant roots

provide you with generations of life. Birds will

in taking up

find the habitat enticing if they feel safe to

nutrients with

eat, rest, and nest there, so provide numerous

the water.

seeded plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees.

If you love birds, provide some areas in your

From top: Blue Wild Indigo,

By creating

Queen of the Prairie, White

a native plant

Culver’s Root, Golden Alexander

yard for leaf litter to accumulate, so that those

garden, each patch

birds who are not seed eaters can forage for

of habitat becomes

insects, spiders, and worms. Leaf litter is a food

part of a collective effort

source for invertebrates including earthworms

to nurture and sustain the

which help to break it down, and in the

living landscape for birds and other animals.

muticum) – Mountain mint is a pollinator

process, leave even more nutrients in the

Together, native plants and animals form

magnet bringing beneficial wasps, bees, and

form of “castings” near or just under the soil

a web of mutually beneficial interactions

specialized flies which keep other insect pests

surface. This also acts as a soil conditioner for

that is greater than the sum of its parts: an

under control.

spring ephemerals, and these patches can be

ecosystem.

Perennials that Pack a Pollinator Punch BIG LEAF MOUNTAIN MINT (Pycnanthemum

By adding even a few groupings of unusual

BLUE WILD INDIGO (Baptisia australis) – Wild

for the summer. In winter, they can be placed

native plants to sections of your yard, you will

bees and bumble bees are attracted to these

around the crowns of most native plants, but

create zones of unanticipated joy.

early flowers with their pea-flower blossoms.

positioned over those places where they rest

8 Milford Living • Spring

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KRISTEN MIA, VERONICA BOSLEY

When replacing lawns with native plants that require no fertilizers and less water, you

QUEEN OF THE PRAIRIE (Filipendula rubra)

From top: Indiangrass,

– Early summer brings clouds of light pink

Little Bluestem

blooms on 6-foot stems to fill the air with

Grasses that Feed the Birds

sweet fragrance.

WHITE CULVER’S ROOT (Veronicastrum

INDIANGRASS (Sorghas-

virginicum) – The 5-foot spires of

trum nutans) – Its flowers

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATT LAVIN

tubular flowers are very attractive

attract butterflies and is a

to many native bees, soldier beetles,

host food for certain skippers,

and is a host plant for red admiral

small mammals, and birds come

butterflies.

for the ripened seeds and for nesting material.

GOLDEN ALEXANDER (Zizia aurea) – An nectar, Zizia is visited by short-tongue bees, wasps, and is a host food for Black Swallowtail butterflies.

Milford Yacht Club LITTLE BLUESTEM (Schizachyrium

excellent available source of pollen and

scoparium) – Small songbirds flock to eat

“Not your grandfather’s the seeds of thisclub” beautiful grass. Host plant for several insects, especially skipper butterflies.

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www.milfordyachtclub.com 2021 • Milford Living 9

this season Shrubs for Wildlife NINEBARK (Physocarpus opulifolius) –

From top: Ninebark,

Great spring nectar source for pollinators,

Fothergilla, Button Bush

and birds love the red berries.

Doesn’t mind wet “feet,” and FOTHERGILLA (Fothergilla gardenia)

grows up to 10 feet.

attracted to the nectar-rich,

SUMMERSWEET

fragrant bottlebrush flowers

(Clethra alnifolia) –

which bloom before the leaves

Mid-to-late summer

emerge. Wonderful fall color.

blooms are very

BUTTON BUSH (Cepholanthus

butterflies, hum-

americanus) – Creamy-white

mingbirds, bumble-

fragrant and attract

round flower head are loved by pollinators and butterflies. When the fruit forms, birds enjoy the seeds.

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bees, and native bees.

Flowers in shade but loves full sun.

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PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: MANFRED RICHTER, HELGA KATTINGER, JAN HAERER

– Honey bees and butterflies are

From top: Fringe tree, Sourwood tree

Trees that Draw Attention FRINGE TREE (Chionanthus virginicus) – Songbirds and game

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID J. STANG

birds eat the dark purple fruits. Bees are primary pollinators.

SOURWOOD TREE (Oxydendrum arboretum) – Very attractive to butterflies, native bees, and honeybees. The seeds are eaten by birds. Fantastic fall color.

—Cheryl Cappiali, UConn Extension Master Gardener, Milford Garden Club

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON NATIVE PLANTS: • • • • •

National Audubon Society National Wildlife Federation The Native Plant Trust The Nature Conservancy The North American Native Plant Society

NATIVE NURSERIES: • •

Earth Tones Native Plants Woodbury, CT Native LLC. Fairfield, CT

MILFORD GARDEN CENTERS: • • • •

Glendale Farms Filanowski Farm Rivercrest Farm Robert Treat Farm

2021 • Milford Living 11

what’s new

Meet Milford’s Newest Poet Laureate

E

stablished in 2016 to elevate poetry within the Milford community, the individual who serves as the Milford Poet Laureate is an advocate for poetry, literature, and the arts and contributes to the City’s literary legacy through public readings and participation

in civic events. Following in the footsteps of the city’s first Poet Laureate, Mick Theebs, Joan Kwan Glass was selected through a competitive process by a panel of literary experts, civic leaders, and educators. She will serve in this honorary position for four years.

The mother of three and poetry editor at the West Trestle Review, Glass has been a public school educator for the past 20 years.

She’s been published in various journals, and her poems have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize four times.

Glass found herself drawn to writing at an early age. “I wrote my first poem when I was six years old: a rhyming poem about George Washington in my Hello Kitty notebook,” she COURTESY OF JOAN KWAN GLASS

remembers. “I quickly fell in love with the work of Shel Silverstein as a child and still have some of his poems memorized.” This love for poetry remained with Glass wherever she went. From growing up in a suburb of Detroit, to summers spent visiting her family in South Korea, poetry proved itself the perfect instrument with which to process her

Joan Kwan Glass is Milford’s second Poet Laureate,

emotions and understand her world. “I think

and hopes to draw on her experience as an educator

I’ve always been drawn to writing; as an

to bring the art of poetry to a wider audience.

12 Milford Living • Spring

First Morning

The first school bus heaves itself around the corner, an immense groaning canary pitches its hips burdened, forward then flies.

We are the first people and today is the first morning.

Breathing in and out, trying to read each other’s eyes as there is no language yet.

Maybe this ordinary courtyard of white stones and flowers is where we start again or this familiar brick pathway.

Maybe it is every door opening in every schoolhouse, welcoming us in despite how screwed up the world can be.

A teacher takes a child’s hand, and the child goes.

Inside, maps wait to be opened.

—Joan Kwan Glass

introvert and creative person, it allows me to externalize my deeply layered internal life.”

When discussing how her poetry has

family, loss, healing, and recovery.

In addition to writing and performing

poem First Morning was written when schools began reopening following the state

poems at city-wide events, Glass said she

shutdown. Commenting on its importance,

evolved over time, Glass explains that

aims to use poetry to help draw attention

both throughout history and today, she

“Poetry is like everything in life; it changes

to local businesses, as well as work with

notes, “Poetry has helped to sail ships, garner

as you change and as your world morphs.

schools and teachers. And she looks forward

romance, mourn our warriors, and welcome

I have gone through years during which I

to driving more interest in the arts. “I’d be

each other home. I believe in the power of

write mostly about love, and others when

interested in collaborating with various

poetry and think everyone should read at

everything I wrote revolved around being a

organizations like the Milford Historical

least one poem a day! I try to read every

new mother. In 2017 I lost two close family

Society, the Marine Institute, the Milford

single day and write as often as I can. It helps

members unexpectedly, so since then, most

Public Library, and the Milford Arts Council

to keep me connected to joy and gratitude

of my poetry is about those losses and the

in order to curate art exhibits that promote

and gives me perspective no matter what is

grieving and recovery process. I’ve also been

poetry and visual arts. And when we come

happening around me.”

deeply influenced as I read, so the more that

back together post-Covid, I would love to hold

I read, the more honed my craft becomes.”

live readings and generative workshops.”

Currently, Glass says that her poetry’s main themes include memory, grief, childhood,

Poetry provides a personal and empathetic perspective to everyday events. Glass’s

—Sophia Avitable Read more about the Milford Poet Laureate at JoanKwonGlass.com.

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milford green

Sold on Solar

C

oncerns about the environmental impact and cost of fossil fuels have led many in our community to embrace renewable, clean energy. Drive around Milford and you will see more and more homes, businesses, and organizations installing and using solar panels to generate electricity. These panels contain photovoltaic cells that “convert light energy to electricity,” according to the website Gosolarct.com. When sunlight hits these cells, an electrical current is created and that electricity is used to power the house or building, and, in most cases, the excess electricity is transmitted back into the grid.

One of the most recent

(Above) The Milford Bank solar arrays capture

large arrays to be installed

energy for their buildings; (Below) The Viscount Dr.

in the city is on the Milford

array is the largest ground-based array in Milford.

Bank property on Depot Street. Tyler Haskell, Milford

Demaio Drive property, and a ground-mounted

Bank security & facilities

array generating 95,000 kwh per year is located

manager, is enthusiastic

at 100 Viscount Drive. “The Viscount Drive

about the system, which he

array is the largest ground-based one in town,”

designed. The system went

stated Vasiliou. “We are one of the few housing

live in March 2020. “There

authorities with such large installations.”

are actually two arrays

The Demaio Drive and Viscount Drive arrays

there, one on the roof of

were designed and installed by MSL group,

the bank’s 9 Depot Street

led by Michael Likamele. MSL group builds

building and the carport

and manages renewable energy solutions in

in the parking lot between

Connecticut and continues to maintain the

Depot and High Streets,”

MRHP arrays. Likamele and Vasiliou explained

said Haskell. “We decided

that a large part of the cost-savings is that MRHP

to install them as a way to

has contracted with MSL group for a 20-year

save money—we get credit

electric rate stabilization, below market cost, for

for the electricity we produce—but also as way to

electric vehicle charging stations for Milford

go green and reduce our carbon footprint.”

Bank employees and visitors.

The attractive design of the carport solar

Milford Redevelopment and Housing

power to the properties’ common areas.

A few years ago, Milford Public Schools (MPS) and the Board of Education embarked on a

array stands out in the downtown area. Located

Partnership (MRHP) executive director Anthony

“Reduce, Recycle, Reuse” initiative to reduce the

in a historic district, a great deal of creativity

Vasiliou shared that the MRHP also has a

school system’s carbon footprint, become greener,

went into the planning. According to Haskell,

commitment to reducing costs and its carbon

and save money for the city. A large part of this

“We worked closely with the city to develop

footprint and has installed photovoltaic panels on

program has been installing solar arrays on the

the appearance of the array to conform to the

two of its properties. A rooftop array generating

roofs of all the city’s schools to generate electricity.

required aesthetics.” The array also includes two

110,000 kwh per year is in operation on the 75

A 2019 YouTube video from MPS features

14 Milford Living • Spring

A solar array generates electricity from the rooftop of the MHRP property at 75 Demaio Drive. superintendent Dr. Anna Cutaia on the rooftop

from. The State of Connecticut Department

of East Shore Middle School, showing that array,

of Consumer Protection has created an

which is low-profile and attractive.

easy-to-use guide that includes questions to ask prior to choosing a company. They encourage homeowners to get multiple quotes

home, there can also be other uses. According

from different contractors, speak with a tax

to Jennifer Paradis, executive director of the

professional about potential tax credits to help

Beth-El Center, “the solar panels were installed

defray the cost, and verify licensing once a

on the roof of the center approximately eight or

contractor is chosen. Search for the Solar Panel

nine years ago to heat water. The system works

Buyer’s Guide on the CT.gov site.

very well, and we never run out of hot water,

A commitment to renewable energy and

even with six showers potentially being used

reducing the carbon footprint, along with

at the same time. There has been a huge cost

the potential cost-savings in electricity, has

savings, and since it is also green energy it is a

made using solar power very attractive and its

win-win.”

popularity is growing. It is a great way to help to

For homeowners interested in installing a solar array, there are many companies to choose

“go green!”

— Shaileen Kelly Landsberg

MICHAEL LIKAMELE

Although most solar arrays are designed to produce electricity to power a building or

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at home

uring this past, most unusual year, we found ourselves tied closer to home with more time on our hands. Looking to fill the idle hours, some Milfordites looked back in time for inspiration. By reviving pastimes that harkened back to a simpler time, before technology garnered more and more of our attention, we discovered the benefits of some good old-fashioned living.

NADYA SPETNITSKAYA

Back to Basics D

the dough to rise take time. As yeast became scarce at the beginning of the pandemic,

The Chicken and the Egg

In the early 1900s the average household kept a

alternatives were created. Homemade baking

small flock of hens to produce eggs and poultry for

powder and sourdough starters were passed

families. Chickens are surprisingly easy to care for

Many may remember the heavenly aroma of

along to family, friends, and neighbors. The

and inexpensive to maintain. Fresh eggs taste far

grandma’s warm, homemade bread, slathered

delicious rewards of their efforts have created

better than those from a store and contain more

with butter or jam. Grannny made it seem

new traditions, with ardent bakers sharing and

nutrients. Chickens that spend time free ranging

simple, but today’s rookie bakers soon realized

discovering new recipes. As renowned chef

provide yards with chemical free bug control, plus

its challenges. Patience is a virtue when

James Beard once said. “Good bread is the most

they prefer to eat weeds rather than grass. Chicken

creating bread; kneading and checking for

fundamentally satisfying of all foods; and good

manure is thought to be one of the best fertilizers

Loafing Around

bread with fresh butter, the greatest of feasts.”

And Sew it Begins

The sudden need for masks started many of us sewing. Patterns were made available online, and long dormant sewing machines were dusted off and put to work. Machines whirred and those new to the art learned Sewing 101 secrets like how to thread a needle and set a bobbin. Cheater eyeglasses were on standby—ready to be deployed—awaiting the dread of the inevitable snapped thread. Local

TATA TOTO

kept plenty busy. Sales of fabric, machines,

16 Milford Living • Spring

patterns, and sundries increased…and continue to climb. The satisfaction of engaging in this time-honored skill has many of us hooked.

ZACHARIAH SMITH

fabric stores offered pickup service and were

for gardens—full of great nutrients for vegetables and flowers. Most breeds are friendly and have a great deal of personality. Children can pitch in and feel gratified by their efforts. You can even rent a coop! It’s no wonder suburban egg stands are popping up all over.

Gardens are not uncommon, but last summer, and heading into this next season, more of us are beginning or expanding our gardens. Seeds have been started on windowsills, and soil

MARKUS SPISKE

Reap What You Sow

is being prepared to host this year’s harvest.

water, and everyone harvests. There is nothing

These not-so-old yet new again pursuits are

Whether a vast vegetable garden, a raised bed, or

like enjoying a fresh-picked tomato, snapping

back in vogue (check out the Cottage Core trend)

containers on your porch, more of us are getting

green beans, or tossing a salad with mixed

and, possibly, here to stay. Bringing people

into growing fresh provisions. Gardening knows

greens and cucumbers from your own garden.

together as they discover new talents, share

no age—the young and the young at heart can

Squash recipes are as plentiful as the varieties

insights, and tips will have us making lemonade

grow fresh, healthy, and delicious foods. Kids can

there are to pick. The bounty is boundless and

out of lemons…with a sprig of fresh mint!

sow seeds, parents can weed, grandparents can

oh, so good.

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

2021 • Milford Living 17

Milford Pride

W

hen Sarah O’Brien came home to Milford after her freshman year at Clark University, she felt empowered by the inclusive and welcoming environment LGTBQ+ students had found on campus. That positivity and excitement

contrasted with what she perceived as a general lack of engagement with LGBTQ+ issues she experienced while attending Milford schools. As O’Brien puts it, “By the time I was in high

COURTESY OF MILFORD PRIDE

milford spotlight

school, same sex marriage in Connecticut had already been legal for almost 10 years, but it

The Rainbow Pride flag is raised on the Milford City

was never mentioned. There was nothing about the gay rights movement. Even the prom,

Hall flagpole in celebration of Pride Weekend 2019.

it seemed, wasn’t really open to everyone.” O’Brien looked at the two disparate approaches toward inclusion and saw an opening to bring people together, raise awareness, increase

LGTBQ+ teens noted high levels of anxiety,

visibility, and bring attention to the issues important to Milford’s LGBTQ+ community.

feelings of rejection, and fears for their safety. Add COVID-19-related social distancing, lockdowns,

In the summer of 2018, shortly after turning

encourage the LGBTQ+ community in Milford to

distance learning, and economic anxiety to these

18, Sarah placed an ad in the Milford Patch

come together, make connections, and make new

already problematic issues, and organizations

looking for residents interested in forming a

friends. When the group was in its early days,

like Milford Pride begin to hold an even more

LGBTQ+ organization. It garnered eight phone

O’Brien noted that some people were surprised

important place within the community. As

calls. Her next step was a visit to the Milford

to find that there were other LGBTQ+ people

O’Brien says, “Imagine being a teenager locked

Oyster Festival with a bunch of pride flags,

living in greater Milford. This, unfortunately, is

down during a pandemic in a house with parents

pamphlets, and a signup sheet. By the end of

not uncommon; there is often a greater sense

who are openly hostile to your identity, to your

the day, 175 people had joined the group and

of isolation and ostracization for gay and trans

true self. It would be comforting to know that

Milford Pride was born.

people, feelings often felt more acutely by teens

there are people out there who understand what

and senior citizens. A 2018 survey of 2,000

you are going through.”

One of the main missions of Milford Pride is to

Another aspect of Milford Pride is the great love its members have for the town. While some members have lived in Milford their whole lives, others have chosen to make Milford their home and found its beauty, charm, and sense of community the perfect place to settle down and raise children. Since the group’s founding, the local government, Mayor Ben Blake, town officals, and churches have been supportive of Milford Pride’s goals. O’Brien praises the town for its role in helping bring about greater visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQ+

COURTESY OF MILFORD PRIDE

community and to educate people about its

18 Milford Living • Spring

issues. “One of the greatest days was in 2019 when City Hall raised the Pride flag,” she says.

“The Mayor has been great; the library hosted Milford Pride reaches out to the community at local events like the Milford Oyster Festival.

COURTESY OF MILFORD PRIDE

events for Pride weekend and the churches have played a major role in supporting us.” In fact, in 2019, five local churches held a group fundraiser for Milford Pride that culminated in a concert at the First United Church of Christ by singersongwriter Bobby Jo Valentine.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, public events have been replaced by Zoom chats. Last

and that people went to jail for no other reason than their sexuality.” O’Brien says she wants “a middle age person to be able to tell a teen that it’s going to get better; that I was once like you but now I have a home, I have a family...”

For O’Brien, communication is the key to

The First United Church of Christ hosted a

promoting understanding and acceptance. As

fundraiser for Milford Pride.

the founder and president of Milford Pride she

year, Pride month activities were postponed

has helped open a dialogue that will continue

indefinitely and there was no Oyster Festival

project she’s been hoping to start. The idea is for

to be heard. “I want people to come over to our

booth to set up. But it’s not all doom and

members to write down their life stories and

booth and ask questions, I want them to know

gloom! Beginning in March, Milford Pride and

explain what it was like for them growing up and

that we are their neighbors and even the people

Hawkwood Games began hosting an LGBTQ+

coming out. “I want teenagers to see that they’re

next to them at church. We’re all just people.”

trivia night via Zoom with prizes for the

not alone, but to also see how it was for the older

winners. Hope springs eternal.

generations that grew up in much less accepting

When asked what the coming months had in store for Milford Pride, O’Brien speaks of a history

—Gerry McGuire

times,” she explains. “How they had to hide their

For more information or to find answers to

lifestyle. How there was no same sex marriage,

questions, visit milfordpride.org.

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2021 • Milford Living 19

arts + artisans

Artful Adornments

F

or many of us, selecting our daily ornamentation is a morning ritual: earrings, necklace, pins, watches, or rings. Some are gifts—cherished symbols of love. Others are just plain fun. Jewelry has been part of human history for millennia. The oldest known jewelry, found in a cave in South Africa, is a simple string of beads created by drilling holes into snail shells. Dating back 75,000 years, it was the beginning of the human romance with wearable charms, symbols, and trinkets.

Artist and gallery owner Rosemary Celon-Gordon uses unique “bits” to create her jewelry.

And the artistry of this family business continues with the next generation. Mark Valentine Junior is now working with his mom and dad and their sweet dog Sammy, a furry favorite

Technologies, both ancient and

of friends who come to shop.

cutting-edge, have aided many

Valentine’s has become a

Milford businesses in the making

part of many lives, creating

extraordinary gifts. For Mark

unique remembrances

Valentine, owner of Valentine

of romance, family, and

Jewelers (350 Boston Post Road), his

friendship.

fascination with the jewelers’ craft

Rosemary Celon-Gordon,

began around the age of 21, after

co-owner of the Gilded Lily

witnessing an artisan at work. “I

Gallery (101 River Street),

saw someone fixing jewelry at a

views her take on the craft

work bench—sizing rings and doing me,” he recalls. “After mentioning it to my

continued to grow, and the Milford

mother, the next day she found a school in

community has been very supportive. Long

Manhattan and enrolled me. I took a bus to

time clients have become friends.”

the train and the train to Manhattan every day.” Valentine had discovered his vocation.

At the time, his parents owned several

MARYALICE MANNING(3)

other things—and it interested

From the beginning, Valentine’s has specialized in crafting custom pieces.

Whether creating a perfect setting for a

small businesses. “I proposed the idea of

brilliant stone, engraving an affectionate

a jewelry store and they thought it was a

note, or helping mark the time with a

great idea. We set up shop in Milford on

distinctive watch, Valentines has been a

Valentine’s offers many treasures from vintage

Bridgeport Avenue in 1980. The business

go-to for four decades.

Rolex watches to dazzling diamond rings.

20 Milford Living • Spring

kind of started me on the path.”

A few classes in college fostered Celon-Gordon’s exploration of the arts, and today she shares her avant-garde and fanciful wares at the Gilded Lily.

Semi-precious stones, glitzy MARYALICE MANNING(2)

costume jewels, and cameos make their way into her creations. “I The Valentine Family includes Sammy,

have gone to New York and enjoy

who playfully minds the shop where dia-

exploring the costume jewelry

monds sparkle in their display cases.

supply house. It is packed with boxes and boxes of curious bits. A

differently. “I don’t consider myself a

at Milford High. Mr. Cormier offered a place

treasure trove that you need to dig through…

jeweler, but more of an artist that makes

to hang out during study hall. I would go

nothing is labeled,” she laughs. “It inspires

jewelry,” she says. “I started making pieces

there to chill out and make jewelry, so he

the creative process.”

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arts + artisans

MARYALICE MANNING(2)

becomes malleable and must be quickly

Rosemary’s eclectic style shines through in her

formed before it dries. The item is then fired and stays in the kiln to cool down. Once the binder cooks away the silver or other choice metals remain. The piece can then be shaped, polished, or patinaed.”

Celon-Gordon’s rings, earrings, and necklaces are distinctive conversation

one-of-a-kind creations.

starters and unique statement pieces. Whic “Most of my work is stone with base

is perfect. Because as one of history’s most

metals, mostly sterling silver and a bit

famous jewelry collectors, Elizabeth Taylor,

of bronze,” she explains. She also uses

once said, “Jewelry has the power to be

what is referred to precious metal clay.

the one little thing that makes you feel

“The clay is made with metals. When

unique.”

it is combined with a binding agent it

—Susan Carroll Dwyer

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family time says. From fort-building to mud kitchens, hunting for worms and turning over logs, LeClair says there are so many ways to enjoy playing in the rain with children.

But, it wasn’t always her favorite.

“My children loved going outside in the rain to jump in puddles, but I found it difficult to motivate myself to play in the rain alongside them. I quickly

Playing in the Rain F or adults, the rain typically has us running for cover, dashing from here to there, praying we don’t ruin our shoes—or worse—our phones. At home, rainy days are often synonymous with board games and movie marathons, puzzles, and baking. And we do really love everything on that list. Except…

the way children do? You see, to children, rain means puddles.

myself seeking coverage from the rain and avoiding puddles

encing nature in all seasons and

when we were outside,” LeClair

all weather. “Playing in the rain,

says. Finding a pair of adult rain

or popping in puddles, as my

pants at a consignment shop was

youngest likes to call it, is one

a total game-changer. “Now I was

of my children’s favorite activi-

in business, she laughed. “The

ties throughout the year,” she

business of playing in the rain!”

Dr. Diana Lopusny, M.D., F.A.A.P., owner of Preferred Pediatrics, says spending time in nature,

adults to think about heading

in any weather, is crucial. “There

out in the rain for pleasure. But,

is no such thing as inappropriate

if you let yourself think like a

weather, just inappropriate

kid again, you just might find

clothing,” she says. “Nature has a

yourself having a bit of fun.

calming effect on all children and boosts the immune system—in

family brings so many wonderful

any and all weather. Playing

sensory experiences which, when

outside in the rain connects a

you slow down to take them in,

child to the earth, splashing and

are completely inspiring and

letting all their cares run free.”

Leslie LeClair, a Milford

Playing in the rain with your

mother of three, says her family

children is just one of those

has learned the value of experi-

24 Milford Living • Spring

and rain boots, but I still found

for yourself.

means mudpies. It’s not easy for

enriching for everyone involved.

me back. Sure, I had a raincoat

things you’ll have to experience

Rain means rain dancing. Rain

Spending time outdoors as a

propriate gear that was holding

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ones, one-piece suits for rain by

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your best judgement. If there

Bogs are great. Mittens also really

is heavy wind or temperatures

help, especially when tempera-

below 45 degrees, stay inside.

tures dip below 50 degrees.

Moderate rain in temperatures above 45 degrees are ideal.

TUCK EVERYTHING IN! – This effective method for keeping

cotton or wool base layer and a

your children clean, dry, and

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of a raincoat, rain paints, and rain

rainboots and tuck the rain pants

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family time BE PREPARED – If you’re leaving the

and make your clean-up a little bit

house to play in the rain, be sure

easier.

to pack a well-stocked bag of extra clothes. Extra socks are the most

PACK A WARM TREAT – Consider

important.

packing a thermos of hot chocolate or tea to enjoy during or after play.

covered in mud, rain gear can simply

THE RIGHT ATTITUDE – Jump in

be hung up in the basement, garage,

the puddles. Collect rainwater in

or mudroom to dry. It’s much easier

a container and then dip sidewalk

brushing off dirt once dry. No need

chalk into the bucket and draw.

to wash raingear after every use.

Take bath toys outside to play.

ROLL AROUND – Never underesti-

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HANG IT UP TO DRY – Even if it’s

There are so many wonder-

mate the cleaning power of a child

ful ways to embrace the rainy

rolling through grass. It can work

weather with your children. By

in love with wet rainy days, your

wonders in getting the mud off

modeling different ways to fall

children will learn to have fun

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26 Milford Living • Spring

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milford morsels

Smoothilicious

S

moothies are delicious, nutritious, and can help provide bodies with essential vitamins and minerals to keep us powered-up on even the busiest days. For many people, smoothies make the perfect morning meal or afternoon snack. All around town, Milfordites all filling their Ninjas, Vitamixers, and Magic Bullets with colorful, vitamin-packed goodness. But if you find yourself pressed for time, toss the blender and check out some of the local Milford businesses that are whipping up some delicious smoothies just for you.

THE BEES KNEES CAFÉ

organic fruits and/or vegetables.

17 Broadway Facebook.com/beeskneesmilford

BEE-liscious. “Customers love our all-

Owner Nancy Burke calls her smoothies organic smoothies, made with vanilla

Buzz on over to this hip Walnut Beach café

yogurt, organic milk, or organic nondairy

and try one, or all, of their eight different

of oat, almond, coconut, or soy milk with

types of smoothies, each made with fresh

agave, cinnamon, and fresh fruit!” she says. One of their most popular smoothies is the ‘BEE-Green’, which consists of green apple, cucumber, kale, spinach, celery, and pineapple. Have a favorite smoothie drink

fully balanced meal replacements. With

of your own? No worries, the staff at Bees

24 grams of protein and 21 other vitamins

Knees serves up custom smoothies tailored

and minerals, customers get a delicious

to your tastebud expectations. Why not

tasting smoothie for under 300 calories.

try adding almond or peanut butter to

Their most popular smoothies are Peanut

a smoothie for a nutty treat? “One of our loyal customers has said that every town or city should have a Bees Knees Cafe where awesome food and service at reasonable prices keeps us coming back every week!”

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28 Milford Living • Spring

All of their smoothies are considered

Butter Cup and Salted Caramel. They also offer vegan, low carb, low sugar, and gluten free options to meet any special dietary

CAFÉ ATLANTIQUE 33 River Street Cafeatlantiquemilford.com

needs.

“Customers love that our

Downtown Milford’s Cafe Atlantique may

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be well known for its amazing coffee and

that tastes just like an ice cream sundae,

lovingly crafted crepes, but their signature

so they get all the amazing flavors without

Green Smoothie is a real hit with busy

the guilt,” says owner Shauna Garrison. The

professionals in the bustling downtown.

folks at Beachside are not just active, but

Owner Ryan McConnell attributes the

an active part of the Milford community.

fresh ingredients and outdoor location

“Our customers are an extension of our

that makes everything come together. A

family,” says Garrison. “We love being

favorite with regulars and newbies alike,

able to support our community by hosting

the Green Smoothie includes fresh apple,

fundraisers and donating shakes and teas to

banana, cucumber, spinach, and an entire

first responders and teachers. Our goal is to

orange blended with water and ice. As

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30 Milford Living • Spring

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Local Artists at Local Galleries

I

BY MAKAYLA SILVA

In the digital age of ecommerce and social selling, where

you can purchase pretty much anything you want from the comfort of your couch, some might argue that traditional

brick-and-mortar stores are soon to be a thing of the past.

But the opposite argument could also be made.

Have you walked through the screen door at The Blue

Heron to be greeted by Maureen Lewis’ warm smiling

face? Or popped into Artfish42 after the winter refresh, inhaled that fresh salt air, and checked out the new waterscapes?

Local galleries lend themselves to artists and artisans as

spaces not only to showcase their work but also to make

connections and share their stories. Artfish42 founder Meg Giannotti hits the nail on the head: “When you support

local art, you are supporting your neighbors, your family, your friends, and you’re keeping your community thriving. It’s not about the things, it’s about the people.”

34 Milford Living • Spring

N The Blue Heron

on Fridays and Saturdays

Nestled in the seaside

12–5pm during the warmer

Heron is the kind of place where

truly never know what you are

Silver Sands community on

months.

you must look up, down, and

going to find. With incredible

In its 19th year, The Blue

underneath everything. You

Broadway, The Blue Heron is

collections of 1940s restaurant

a treasure trove of vintage,

ware, Clarisse Cliff China, and

antique and new furnishings.

opalescent Victorian vases,

Collectors, beachgoers, and

The Blue Heron lends itself to

locals seemingly can’t help but

local artists and artisans as a

be drawn to the mysterious

consignment store, accepting

F

little hidden gem—open only

unique crafts and creations.

Gilded Lily Gallery

For 20 years, The Gilded

Lily has flourished on River Street. A local landmark in

the arts community, Gilded Lily Gallery has drawn art

enthusiasts from all around the world, showcasing its unique collection by both local and international

artists. The glittering gallery is lined floor-to-ceiling with handmade jewelry and

steampunk mosaics, colorful blown glass, and intricate sculptures.

Barry Gordon and Rosemary Celon-Gordon opened their downtown gallery to local and regional artists more than 20 years ago. “We

like to have a variety of artists who work in all different mediums. We have a watercolor artist, an artist who paints in oils, a photographer—each artist here has a different medium. We work with about 20 artists locally, about a (Left & Top) Beach-inspired art and eclectic treasures await discovery at

half-dozen are from Milford,”

the Blue Heron; (Above) The Gilded Lily Gallery on River Street has been

says Celon-Gordon.

a landmark in the city’s art scene for more than two decades.

With an established

2021 • Milford Living 35

N

is a local consignment shop offering both online and instores shopping. Owned and operated by Patricia Ospina, the small shop on New Haven Avenue lends itself to local artists and artisans to showcase their work on consignment.

“Our local artists aren’t just painters. They create everything from sneakers and dresses to sculptures and paintings,” Ospina says. She says offering her eight artists a physical location provides them with much-needed Lined floor-to-ceiling with all kinds of art, Gilded Lily Gallery showcases collections by local and international artists.

network of art collectors and enthusiasts, Gilded Lily offers individual artists plenty of hands-on attention, with loyal and steady patronage.

“When you work with the gallery, it’s not just come in, hang your work on the wall and hope someone buys your painting. We promote our artists’ work through social media and through our website—we get more exposure for these individuals than if they were to do an art show or hang their work in a café or library.”

La Unique Boutique

One of Milford’s newest boutiques, La Unique Boutique

36 Milford Living • Spring

T Miss Dallas’

happen upon Miss Dallas’

Tucked away in an industrial

Shop. Which is why owner

enclave off Old Gate Lane at

Lynda Kilgore say Miss

16 Higgins Drive, Miss Dallas’

Dallas’ is “Milford’s Best

Shop is a five-room treasure

Kept Secret.”

trove of eclectic tchotchkes and trinkets.

exposure to grow their

and I want to help

business.

other people by

“Galleries are so expensive

The shop’s extensive customer base draws folks

supporting them

and there’s not much oppor-

from the beginning.

tunity for an artist starting

In a way, my own

out,” she says. “I know how

love of art has made

hard it is to grow a business

me more appreciative

that you’re passionate about,

and excited about supporting and helping others.”

Ospina says that as a business owner, working with artists on consignment

Miss Dallas’ is a treasure trove of new, used, and vintage finds with an

is mutually beneficial. “We

impressive collection of works on consignment by artists and artisans.

get foot traffic in the store from people looking at the

Hidden on a street that

traveling from as far as

art who might come to see

doesn’t see a ton of foot

Stamford in search of their

the artwork and end up

traffic, you wouldn’t just

next great find. Kilgore says

buying more,” she says. “For the artist, they are able to have their artwork seen. We take pictures, promote them, market the artwork, and give them exposure. It’s also about time; they don’t have the time to market themselves and create their art. We give them the opportunity to focus on the creating while we work on selling.”

2021 • Milford Living 37

Nestled in the Walnut Beach Arts & Business District, Artfish42 is an artists collective, showcasing the talents of more than a dozen local painters, illustrators, and artisans of every kind.

ing local artists by offering a

home to 13 local artists each

permanent brick and mortar

invested through a monthly

establishment to showcase

fee and shared hours. “We

their work.

have stayed with the same

Run by professional

model, because it works.

her business has been built

an impressive collection

local artists who sell, show,

And if anything, we’ve just

entirely on word of mouth,

of works on consignment

and work regionally and

grown,” Giannotti says.

pointing to the Miss Dallas’

by artists and artisans of

nationally, Artfish42 is not

all ages—truly a browser’s

a gallery, but a co-op,

motto “You will walk in as a stranger, leave as our friend.”

With five rooms spanning 4,000 square feet of vintage jewelry and artwork, painted furniture and collector’s items, Miss Dallas’ is a trove for treasure hunters.

The shop’s extensive inventory ranges in price from $5 to more than $500. Owner Lynda Kilgore sold an original Mickey Myers lithograph for $450 in recent years.

Meander through the labyrinth of new, used, and vintage finds, to discover

38 Milford Living • Spring

T paradise.

Artfish42

Tucked in the Walnut

Beach Arts & Business

Mentorship of artists in the business of art has been at the forefront of Artfish42’s model from the beginning according to Giannotti. “There are a lot of artists that are very good at what they do but

district on Nau-

on the business end,

gatuck Avenue, Art-

they’re not sure where

fish42 first opened

as a pop-up shop in

to begin. We try to help artists learn their worth.

November and December

It’s so important for artists to

of 2014. Four months later,

learn business,” she says.

Artfish42 opened its doors

as an artist collective under

Patricia Thompson, a retired art teacher and mix-

the direction of artist and founder Meg Giannotti,

Artfish42 offers artists gallery

who dreamed of support-

space to showcase their work.

media artist, has been with

but when my clients or

Artfish42 for five years. “I have

customers come into

grown so much, and I have to

the shop and they see

contribute that to Artfish42,”

the artwork on the wall

she says. “Meg is always

and can visualize the

giving us different ways to

piece in their home, it

run our business within the

makes all the differ-

business. And I feel fortunate

ence,” she says.

to be able to be around

Beyond providing

like-minded artists to bounce

local artists with a

ideas off and collaborate with.

means for displaying

Because I am surrounded by

their work, these

different artists, we can feed

Milford galleries

off each other.”

strengthen community

Having a physical space to

ties, support the local

showcase her artwork has been

economy, and con-

incredibly important, Thomp-

tinue to foster a deep

son says. “I have always done

appreciation and love

Local galleries like Artfish42 don’t just provide retail exposure but enable artists

shows throughout the year,

for the arts.

and artisans to showcase their diverse work, make connections, and share stories.

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2021 • Milford Living 39

S 40 Milford Living • Spring

Milford’s Founding Mothers

S

BY CINDY PAPISH GERBER

Sarah Camp, Sarah Nisbett, Mary Baldwin, Jane Treat, Mary Gibb, Mehetabel Tibbals, Mary Fowler, Margaret DeWitt, Elizabeth Botsford. Jennifer Lugus, president of the Friends of the Milford Cemetery, has “deep respect” for these women’s names which are engraved on headstones dotted amongst those belonging to venerated male founders and soldiers. “The grave markers of these 17th and 18th century women contain valuable clues,” she says. “Some had interesting verse and unique carving on their stones, which can be telling of their life or personality. Every stone tells a story.”

Who were these women? Other than the fact

your family and a few belongings to travel 3,000

that they lived during Milford’s earliest days,

miles on a crowded ship to settle in a wilderness.

what else can we learn?

The voyage took months. Children were brought

Several were born in England at the tail end of the Elizabethan era, growing up during a time of

up not to question adults, so they couldn’t even ask, ‘Are we there yet?’”

great political, intellectual, and religious unrest.

Platt paints a picture of their daily routines.

“Our ancestors thought of themselves as English

“Every waking moment would be occupied with

subjects, even after immigrating to America,” describes Jane Platt in a presentation she gave to the

(Left) Colonial era girls began their training at a

Milford Genealogy Group. “Imagine packing up

young age; (Right) a period gown

2021 • Milford Living 41

COURTESY OF JANE PLATT

chores. Taking care of necessities took hard

ary brother John Eliot, are believed to have

(Left) Milford’s Jane Platt during a genealogy

work. They had to keep the fire from going out.

come to Boston from the Nazening area

presentation. (Above) Founding mothers

They cooked from scratch, made candles and

of England on the ship Lyon in 1631. Sarah

would be familiar with the contents of the

soap, raised and tended animals and crops...

was the first adult to die in Milford. Church

Milford Historical Society Herb Garden.

spun, wove, and sewed or knitted clothing

records say: “She had twins on the 2nd of

and bed linens.” While their husbands were

September 1645 and was doing well till the

farmers or tradesmen and assumed leadership

night of the 4th, when she was taken very

roles, “the women had a child about every two

ill with cold and died on the 6th.” She was

years—which only added to their work load.”

buried in the garden of Rev. Peter Prudden.

Later, during the Revolutionary War, when

His garden (including Prudden’s own

many Milford men fought for independence,

unmarked grave) comprises a section of

Milford’s women did more than tend to hearth

Milford’s Cemetery.

and home. They took over their husband’s farms and businesses, taught lessons, made

ELIZABETH BOTSFORD (1614 - 1692)

and prepared supplies, cleaned camps, and

Born Elizabeth Woolhead in Bedfordshire,

nursed wounded soldiers.

England, she was the widow of Henry

It was anything but an easy life for these

Botsford, who was the first in his family

founding mothers who deserve to be recog-

to emigrate here. In 1639, he became one

nized alongside their husbands for the role

of Milford’s free planters. An interest-

they played in building Milford.

ing note: in 1640, whether by choice or circumstances, Elizabeth was admitted to

SARAH CAMP (1599-1645)

the Church of Milford four years before her

Sarah and her husband Nicholas (one of the

husband. They had eight children. She died

first free planters), along with her mission-

at the age of 78.

42 Milford Living • Spring

JANE TREAT (1628 - 1703)

The widow of Samuel Fitch, Sarah later married

Born in Hertfordshire, England to

Mungo Nisbett, who was “given liberty to pros-

Jane Hirz Tapp and Assistant Governor

ecute free trade and commerce,” and credited

Edmund Tapp, one the seven pillars of

with opening traffic to New York. Sarah died

the Milford church, she married Gover-

childless at 41. Lugus considers her gravestone,

nor Robert Treat, founder of Milford and

which is carved with an ornamental design of

Newark, NJ on Christmas Day, 1647. Together

angels and fruit, a rare carving. “Rather than

they had seven children. An eyebrow raising

the typical death head with wings, it is unique

story of their courtship is described in History of

in that it has a pair of the Greek God Eros carved

Newark, NJ, by Joseph Atkinson. “Treat appears

on the headboard, or lunette.”

to have been exceedingly timid and backward

COURTESY OF JANE PLATT

SARAH NISBETT (1657 - 1698)

(Above) A handsewn bodice and pattern along with women’s tools; (Left) A young woman enters the Milford settlement stockade. in the presence of the fair sex and…in coming to the main point - a proposal of marriage. There is good authority for saying that once, while familiarly dancing his future wife on his knee, as was permissible by their disparity of age and long intimacy, the damsel brought her lover to a prompt decision by the suggestive expostulation: “Robert, I would rather be treated than trotted.” He took the hint and proposed, which says a lot about her feisty nature! Jane died in 1703 at the age of 75.

MARY BALDWIN (1658 - 1703) Born in Milford to John Beard and Hannah Hawley, Mary Baldwin married Timothy Baldwin II, a farmer and sergeant, who was

?????

one of Milford’s original settlers. Together they had four children: Mary, Hannah, Billing, and Timothy.

2021 • Milford Living 43

Samuel in 1769. They were both age 17 and she passed away at the young age of 22. Samuel went on to marry three more times.”

MARY FOWLER (1767-1792) Mary was 24 and unmarried at the time of her death. A daughter of William and Eunice Fowler, her headstone’s epitaph is notorious among cemetery buffs. Known as The Molly

MARY HEGARTY NESCHKE

Stone, the unusual inscription reads: “Molly tho

“Mistress Merwin” portrayed during a recreation of her historic ride to warn of a British invasion.

pleasant in her day/ Was suddenly seiz’d and sent away /How soon she’s ripe how soon she’s rott’n /Sent to her grave and soon forgott’n.”

In another bizarre turn, her headstone was reported missing in 2017 by former Milford Historian Richard Platt. Thankfully, it was recovered approximately 100 feet away from its original spot and replaced undamaged.

MARY GIBB (1731 - 1769)

the family record.” They are all buried in

Mary was married to Capt. John Gibb, one

the same cemetery row.

of Peter Pond’s principal creditors. It’s

MARGARET DEWITT (1739 -1794) Margaret married Garritt Van Horne DeWitt

MEHETABEL TIBBALS (1752-1774)

that Mary was John’s first wife and Eunice

Some genealogy sources list her name as

[Gibbs] his second,” says Lugus. “In the

“Mehetibel.” Regardless, “her maiden name

(Bottom Left): Woodcut print from a 1779

church records they have GIBBS/GIBB for

was Lambert,” says Lugus. “She married

publication; (Right) Depiction of a colonial kitchen.

LEFT ????? RIGHT

possible that Gibb should be GIBBS, and

44 Milford Living • Spring

in 1759, after the death of her father Abra-

ham, a successful NY merchant. She

housekeeper, Flora. She wrote, ‘Being

is named in his will as Margaret Van

sick in Body, but of sound mind and

Horne and further evidence indicates

memory’. Her husband died the previ-

she benefitted from her inheritance.

ous year (1793), almost a year to the day

She commissioned artist Benjamin

she died. Perhaps she had been ill for

West to paint her portrait (circa 1760)

some time and never recovered from

which is catalogued in the National

his death, as his gravestone depicts a

Portrait Gallery at the Smithsonian.

loving and happy family life.”

While their headstones shall remain

ticulous will was dated 10 days before

in Milford for perpetuity, these women’s

her death on February 1, 1794. “She

contributions toward shaping Colonial

gave particular items to each child:

America should not be overlooked. “They

Catherine, Garritt (sic), William, John, and Abraham…and of the rest of her possessions told them to divide equally.

MARK MARTINS

Lugus points out that Margaret’s me-

saw themselves not so much as individuals, but as members of a community,” notes Jane Platt. “And that community

‘Share and Share alike.’ There was quite

Oil lamps with glass chimneys were common household

would likely not have survived unless its

a list; she even gave ‘10 in cash’ to her

items women were charged with cleaning and filling.

members worked together.”

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education notebook qualify for free or reduced meals. With districts using virtual or hybrid learning models, the loss of access to school meals increases the risk of food insecurity, a situation exacerbated by the pandemic.

The operational challenges Faustich faced to implement COVID-related protocols further strained the viability of the program, like staff needing to maintain 6-feet of distance. The program had to absorb the cost of additional personal protective equipment and increased use of packaging and paper to accommodate grab-and-go options. Rental of a freezer truck was necessary to accommodate the increased volume

School Food Services in a Pandemic

W

hen the coronavirus pandemic abruptly closed schools last spring, the Milford Public Schools Food Services department was left with pantries, refrigerators, and freezers full of product intended to feed the district’s students. As the closure stretched into weeks, it became apparent to Food Services director Eileen Faustich that alternative measures would be needed to provide the food to its intended consumer—the children. Federal regulations for the school lunch program typically prohibit its operation outside of school. However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture quickly stepped in and began issuing waivers to relax the rules and allow curbside versus cafeteria delivery of meals, with parents and guardians picking up food that normally could only be handed to students.

Milford is among the many school districts

program is a $2 million enterprise that

where food service departments are designed

serves about half a million meals—breakfast

to be self-sustaining. They operate on tight

and lunch—in a typical school year. These

budgets using only revenue from federal

programs are considered a critical safety net

Olive Paulsson used Granny Smith apples provided

reimbursements and the sale of ala carte and

for families who struggle to feed their children;

in the meal packs to make her great-grandmother’s

healthy snack items and beverages. Milford’s

approximately 25 percent of Milford’s students

apple pie recipe.

46 Milford Living • Spring

of food. Food orders were often incomplete,

number just continued to grow every week,”

causing staff to shift gears and improvise.

says Faustich. The last week of school in June,

Furthermore, the supply chain was especially

the equivalent of 16,000 meals were served.

concerning early in the pandemic, as other

In twice weekly pick-ups, families received

programs and restaurants were competing for

breakfast and lunch (14 meals per week) for

the same scarce supplies.

each child who signed up to receive food. It

But with federal waivers in place allowing

was an uncharted and ambitious undertaking

programs to operate year-round under

that involved an elaborate, contactless,

regulations that typically apply only to

all-hands-on-deck approach, including a

summertime meals, Milford has been able

multi-page Google Doc to keep it all straight.

to feed all youth under the age of 18 free of

As time went on, Faustich and her team

charge.

creatively refined the process. Staff moved

During the first week of the grab-and-go

away from individual servings towards bulk

operation in March 2020, 4,326 meals were

Cayden Rodriques gives a thumbs up to his ready-to-eat

distributed. “The need was very real, and the

snack, provided in a meal pack.

portions by giving families more “make your own” meals like containers of taco

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education notebook fixings with a package of shells, a head

which 77,000 meals were handed out. School

of lettuce, cucumbers, and a container of

district van drivers delivered meals to families

tomatoes, or half gallons of milk instead

who had no transportation and have continued

of individual 8-ounce cartons. To complete

to do so throughout this school year. And the

the meal packs, the group separates dry,

local non-profit, Milford Food 2 Kids, worked

frozen, and refrigerated food the day prior

alongside school staff on distribution days and

to pick-up. Paper grocery bags are filled,

supplemented meals with grocery gift cards.

put on carts, and wheeled to a designated

The agency continues its weekend program

outside area. Custodial staff and security

for children in need by providing packs of food

guards help with traffic control. Local

discreetly sent home on Fridays.

grocery and pharmacy chains donated

The food services department now operates

bags when they could not be obtained by

under its own blended system as schools

the food service department. The City of

move between a hybrid in-person and virtual

Milford contributed funds to supplement

Four days-worth of fresh vegetables—over 500 pounds—

learning. Some students continue to be full

a summer distribution program during

ready to be provided to more than 1,000 students.

distance learners. Prior to the winter break,

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March and December 2020, both curbside and in-school. For an operation that is usually behind the scenes, Faustich says the thank you notes and photos they have received have been gratifying. She calls the process a “well-orchestrated endeavor,” adding that her staff has been up to the challenge. “They have a good attitude and did what needed to be done. They are troopers.”

Becky Tremblay and para educator Terry Powers load meals into school vans for delivery.

—Susan Glennon families were provided with enough food to last

year, whether he or she attends Milford Public

for two weeks—the equivalent of 25 pounds

Schools, a magnet, parochial, or private school, or

If you have children under the age of 18 and

of food and beverage for each child served.

are formally being home-schooled.

would like additional information on obtaining meals from Milford Public Schools, contact

Currently, any Milford child under the age of 18

In all, close to 500,000 meals were

can sign up to receive food through June of this

distributed to Milford children between

Eileen Faustich at efaustich@milforded.org.

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historical perspective The Taylor

Richardson’s Crane

Library building,

Memorial Library

a cornerstone in

in Quincy, MA and

downtown Milford

Northup’s Taylor Library

since 1895.

in Milford.

These same experts

also identify distinctive differences between these two libraries. Northrup deviated from Richardsonian conventions throughout the Taylor Library by

A Taylor-Made Library

SGT. R.K. BLUE

simultaneously simplifying (mass, roofline) and exaggerating (arch, masonry, facade) many features. Its exterior, which combines local fieldstone, red sandstone, and yellow brick, is described in the Historic Register as, “A rich pattern of textures and colors which enhances its picturesque design. Dominating the main facade is a great round-arched

T

he Taylor Memorial Library holds great significance for Milford Mayor Ben Blake. “It represents Milford’s past, present, and future,” he says. “It’s so important that this building really does frame our downtown…not just from an historical perceptive, but as an iconic fixture of our community.”

Occupying its original plot of land on the Milford Green, the Taylor Memorial Library,

officially turning it over to the city.

In 1979, the Taylor Memorial Library was

or “Old Library,” was completed at a cost of

added to the National Register of Historic

$25,000 in 1895. It was gifted to Milford by

Places. Designed by Bridgeport architect

Henry Augustus Taylor, whose previous two

Joseph W. Northup, it is recognized as

purchases, Lauralton Hall (the former estate

the city’s best example of Richardsonian

of businessman Charles Hobby Pond) and the

Romanesque architecture, a style pioneered

Mary Taylor Methodist Church, were named

by architect Henry Hobson (H.H) Richardson.

to honor his daughter and mother.

Architectural historians credit Richardson

Taylor offered to build a memorial library if

with masterfully incorporating features found in European medieval fortresses and

appropriate the annual maintenance. Records

churches (rough cut stone, heavy arches,

identify the land cost $3,400, but Library

stained glass) into “modern” American

Board minutes from 1893-95 omit design

edifices. While his most famous work is

or construction notes. This would indicate

Boston’s Trinity Church (1877), scholars

The Hepburn window by Tiffany Studios was

that Taylor completed the building before

have noted a close resemblance between

commissioned by Mary Hepburn Smith.

50 Milford Living • Spring

MAURA DOLAN

the town would furnish the land and agree to

entryway under a large central

by Tiffany Studios) commemorate

gable lit by a triplet of round-arched

Milford families who funded seven

windows, framed by Romanesque-

large alcoves. These are grouped

inspired pilasters. The stack area…is

around a Colonial Alcove, founded

expressed by a row of tall windows

by the late Nathan Gillette Pond to

divided by stone mullions.”

memorialize the town’s first settlers.

Paula Jepson Gudell is a proud

hallway is an open-well staircase

owner of an original Taylor Library

with ornately embellished columns.

oak window frame. “It’s hanging

The main reading room has a large

in my Massachusetts home,” she

hearth; in a niche above the fireplace is a plaque containing a poem honoring Henry Taylor’s mother.

In the stack room, four stained

PAULA JEPSON GUDELL

Inside the first floor’s central

shares. “My parents Betty and Alan Jepson (Mayor of Milford, 1963 -1969) gave it to me as a Christmas gift in 1995.” Her father came upon the

glass windows (one, the Hepburn

One of the original Taylor oak window frames, now a picture frame

window frame when the library was

Memorial Window, was created

hanging in the home of Paula Jepson Gudell.

being renovated in the mid-1970s.

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historical perspective “Inside the frame he inserted a painting of the summer cottage by the Housatonic where Katherine Hepburn stayed while performing at Milford residents have fond memories of “spending hours doing homework” in the Taylor.

Members of the Milford CT. History & Vintage Images Facebook Page describe “the ivy-covered entrance,” “old world charm and character,” “creaky floors,” “wood Dewey

COURTESY OF THE MILFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

the Stratford Theater.”

Decimal cabinets,” and “beautiful atmosphere…filled with the smell of

Old snapshots depict the fireplace located in what was once the main reading room and a view from the stacks

old books.”

of the circulation desk.

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52 Milford Living • Spring

F

O

R

D

•

C

O

N

N

E

C

T

I

C

U

T

C LIBRARY

Platt was the head librarian during the 1940s,” recalls former city historian Richard Platt.

“The bookshelves were

COURTESY OF THE MILFORD PUBLI

“My aunt Caroline

so close together that if

(Above) The once-ivy covered library as seen in

someone else needed to get

1913; (Right) A photo of the Taylor Library staff

to the same shelf, you had to

from 1954.

step out and let that person back in!”

In 1976, shortly after the new Milford

growth in membership” precipitated a

Mayor Blake asserts that its role as a Milford

change. Milford’s Regional Chamber of

mainstay is secure. “It will remain mixed-

Public Library opened on Shipyard Lane, the

Commerce relocated headquarters to The

use city owned space,” he states. “There is

Taylor became home to Milford’s Chamber

Connecticut Post Mall.

no interest in selling it, for it is part of our

of Commerce. This lasted until November 2020, when “two years of phenomenal

While the future use of the Taylor

downtown hub in perpetuity.”

Memorial Library has yet to be determined,

—Cindy Papish Gerber

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www.mandrmechanical.com

$500 OFF

INSTALLATION OF A NEW 16 SEER A/C SYSTEM Certain restrictions apply. Must present coupon at time of estimate.

Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 5/31/21.

$750 REBATE

$750 REBATE

$650 REBATE

PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF HIGH EFFICIENCY NATURAL GAS BOILERS

PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF ENERGYSTAR HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS

PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF HIGH EFFICIENCY NATURAL GAS FURNACES

Certain restrictions apply. Must present coupon at time of estimate.

Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 5/31/21.

Certain restrictions apply. Must present coupon at time of estimate.

Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 5/31/21.

Certain restrictions apply. Must present coupon at time of estimate.

Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 5/31/21.

UP TO $500 REBATE PER TON

Valid for all Eversource Energy and United Illuminating residential electric service customers who purchase and install a qualifying high energy heating and/or cooling system. While program available. Please see www.energizeCT.com for full details.

PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF ENERGYSTAR DUCTLESS SPLIT HEAT PUMPS Certain restrictions apply. Must present coupon at time of estimate.

Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 5/31/21.

License Number: HTG.0303425-S1

★

GET TO KNOW OUR ★

Local Businesses

876 Boston Post Road 203-202-9533

Right Choice Real Estate CERTIFIED RESIDENTIAL SPECIALIST ACCREDITED BUYER REPRESENTATIVE

Hours of operation: Mon-fri 4am-6pm Sat 4am-4pm

WENDY WEIR

6 masteR BaRBeRs

www.wendyweir.realtor@gmail.com Let My Experience Work For You Call for FREE Market Analysis

Serving Milford for 46 years

203-668-0509

www.WendyWeirHomes.com

All kinds of haircuts from traditional to modern - Short to long hair Beard styling

670 Boston Post Road, Milford

In business since 1969!

Kathy Dattilo Real Estate Agent

354 Woodmont Rd., Ste. 17 Milford, CT 06460 203.494.9611 kathy.keyrealtyct@gmail.com

MILFORD MARINE INSTITUTE & GULF POND MUSEUM

38 Years of Hands On Science Summer Camps Marine Biology Science/Art: June 15-18

Fa m i ly & p o r t r a i t photography

Marine Biology Science/Art: June 21-25 Bird Identification Art Camp: June 28-July 1 Archaeology/Native Culture A: July 12-16 Archaeology/Native Culture B: July 19-23

Contact Tim Chaucer, Director 203-874-4000 tchaucer@msn.com or milfordmarineinstitute.org

56 Milford Living • Spring

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

203.650.0383

www.sherrylynnphotography.com sherrylynnFoto@gmail.com

Gregory F. Doyle FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE

Now Entrusted with the Smith Funeral Home families Newly Renovated Handicap Accessible Family Owned & Operated Since 1950 The Only Family Owned Funeral Home in Milford

203-874-5641 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford US Route 1, Rte I-95 Exit 34, Right .2 Miles

www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com We are a professional full line tree service company with twenty years experience with Counties. We take pride in our expertise of tree

Tree Experts and Stump Grinding Specialists Commercial & Residential 20 Years Experience

10% OFF

Fully insured with workers comp and liability insurance

quality services at a fair price and we stand behind our work 100%.

We specialize in: Hazardous Tree Removal, Tree Removal, Land Clearing, Storm Damage, Tree Trimming, Bucket Truck Service, Tree Pruning, Chipper Service, Crane Removal Free delivery of organic material

Seasoned Firewood Available Arborist on Staff Arborist # B3292

Call and let us examine your property now.

Free Estimates!

203-305-2584 Located in Milford, Oronoque Road

Jeff Dalton, Owner maddbeavertree@yahoo.com

2021 • Milford Living 57

congratulations

T

he Children’s department at the Milford Public Library was the recipient of a

construction grant from the CT State Library to make some much needed updates. With matching funds from the City of Milford and support Milford departments, the Children’s department was expanded with room for books and reading areas.

Two small meeting spaces on the adult floor were added as well. The Children’s library has now reopened and is ready for all young readers.

58 Milford Living • Spring

COURTESY OF THE MILFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

from municipal leaders and City of

It’s spring 2021 at Filanowski Farms!

We are so excited we wet our plants!

We are so proud to say we are 5 generations strong and growing! In the spring season we offer 35+ greenhouses that you can explore and find veggie plants, annual flowers, and tropical plants in! We also carry locally grown shrubbery, perennials and so Much more!

We are a Three season farm! Spring, Fall, and Christmas!

We are Open 9am to 5pm seven days a week and will be open for the spring season around mid April or (when Mother Nature says so)!

Follow us @FilanowskiFarms

389 Wheelers Farm Rd, Milford CT | 203.874.5094 or 203-878-7746

expressions

Broad Street in Bloom he scent of spring brings fond memories of sidewalk strolls. The sound of cars pass, lending a windswept whirl to the ear. The early afternoon sun shines, warming the faces of friends and strangers. Together we step forward, smiling with grateful hearts for new beginnings.

TEXT: Suzanne Cahill PHOTO: Sherry Johnson

60 Milford Living • Spring

milford’s attic

MUSICAL NOTES Hymn singing at the Plymouth Church changed so much for the congregation when its first melodeon organ was played there in 1849. This melodeon was originally purchased

by James Shipman Tibbals (marked December 28, 1846) and is believed to have been the first in Milford.

Later, it came into the hands of a Mrs. Mary Durand, who donated it to the Plymouth Church in June 1849. The melodeon’s last owner, Dr. Harvey Russell, donated it to the Milford Historical Society. The top and front of the piano-like case is embellished

62 Milford Living • Spring

with mother-of-pearl inlay.

In front of the sheet music is a Peeler Metal Fife, a musical instrument with a simple design and a long history.

The tallest instrument standing on top of the melodeon is a M1892 field trumpet (bugle) on which all modern bugles are based. This horn is marked U.S. Regulation and was the standard in use in drum and bugle corps in World War I. —Marilyn May Photographer: Susan Carroll Dwyer

greetings from milford

Under the Umbrella he Umbrella tree at Anchor Beach has always been

a favorite spot for kanoodling in the moonlight. It

certainly sounds like all that hot jazz and steamy summer nights had turned Evelyn into a bit of a nosy Nellie. Oh, you kid! The “umbrella tree” on this card was actually a Cedar of Lebanon. It didn’t survive a 1950s hurricane, but another took its place and is still a beloved and widely recognized Woodmont landmark.

—Ann McGuire

“If your car doesn’t say Napoli on it, you paid too much.”

WWW.Napolimotors.com

Over 700 New, Pre-Owned and Classics cars to choose from!

– A Trusted Name Since 1959 –

Napoli iNdoor auto/Kia 241 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT

Napoli NissaN Lenny Napoli 688 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT

toll Free: 1-888-776-8853 direct: 203-783-5850

toll Free: 1-800-336-2765 direct: 203-877-5141 2020 • Milford Living 63

?

where is it?

Answer to last issue’s quiz:

The sculpture in the last issue can be found on the Bridge Street bridge over the North Street duck pond.

Send us your answer at: suzanne@milfordliving.com

Want to win a Milford Living Subscription?

Send your answer to this issue’s Where is It? (along with your name and address) to: suzanne@milfordliving.com Two lucky winners will be chosen at random.

64 Milford Living • Spring

BILL CANFIELD

Do you know the answer to this issue’s Where is It?

Client Focused Community Committed

Erik Smith 203.215.9846

Erik.Smith@CBRealty.com www.ErikSmith.cbintouch.com Recipient of the International President’s Elite Award (Recognizes the Top 2% of sales associates internationally.)

To the men and women whose words inspire hope and actions save lives, thank you from our team to yours.

Milford Vascular Institute | 20 Commerce Park, Milford, CT | (203)882-VEIN (8346) | www.milfordvascular.com