Windsor, Conn. – Gather around the fire on grounds once walked by Windsor’s enslaved people to share in the dramatic reading of James Mars’ personal account of his life in 19th-century Connecticut. Come join in on Wednesday, June 19, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. outdoors at Windsor Historical Society for “Written By Himself: The Life of James Mars, A Slave Born and Sold in Connecticut.”
Firelight, the place of storytelling in traditional African communities, is the setting for this powerful experience. James Mars, a Black man born into slavery in 1790, gained his freedom and went on to become an activist and publish a narrative account of his life. Read the words or just listen to this audience-led reading of his personal narrative and share in an understanding of Juneteenth’s meaning to those enslaved in early Connecticut. Admission is free; however, registration is encouraged by calling 860-688-3813 or info@windsorhistoricalsociety.org. Rain date: June 20.
The Windsor Historical Society, founded in 1921, invites visitors to explore the people, places, and events that have shaped Windsor for over four centuries. The Society’s museum and research library is located at 96 Palisado Avenue (Route 159) and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with house tours at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. General admission to the library and historic houses is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students, and free to children under 12 and WHS members. Visitors are free to browse the museum store and exhibit galleries at no charge, thanks to generous support of the Town of Windsor.
