Origins (1934) In 1934, Russian immigrant Rudolph Kunett  founded the first commercial vodka distillery in the United States at 77 South Street, Bethel . This was the humble U.S. birthplace of Smirnoff Vodka .   Smirnoff in America Kunett purchased the U.S. rights to Smirnoff from Vladimir Smirnov. Though Americans weren’t big vodka drinkers at the time, this Bethel plant laid the foundation for vodka’s rise in the U.S.   From Bethel to the World By the late 1930s, Hartford’s

Join us in honoring our nation and community this Veterans Day. The America 250 Bethel Committee , in partnership with the Bethel Patriotic Association , is seeking Veterans  who would like to participate in a public reading of the Declaration of Independence  at the Bethel Veterans Day Ceremony . Event Details: 🌟  Date:  Tuesday, November 11, 2025🕰️  Time:  11:00 a.m.🌳  Location:  Bethel Town Green, Bethel, Connecticut Your voice and presence will help us honor the legacy

As the nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Town of Bethel is joining communities across the country in celebrating this historic milestone. Celebrating the Declaration of Independence The Declaration, signed on July 4, 1776, was more than a statement of separation from Britain—it was a bold commitment to liberty, equality, and self-governance. While Bethel was not incorporated until 1855, residents of the region

Bethel is preparing to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and honor the ways the founding ideals continue to effect our lives. Everyone is encouraged to contribute to our anniversary calendar. We invite you to be part of our story. Join us on Wed., October 8th Bethel Municipal Center 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Meeting Room D (next to Planning and Zoning office) Learn more at: https://bethel-ct.gov/america250 American250@bethel-ct.gov

9/11 Memorial Ridgefield CT Ridgefield Recreation Center 195 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield, CT 06877 The Message - 9/11 - 2025 There is a strange message in the chilled wind…Strange and ancient, heart-touched autumn words. Asking that we listen; listen and look.   A mystery hued black by night and cloud and remembering…This memory speaks of a day and a roar and a loss. Losses.  Many. Too many. Too many losses. Where there should be none. There should be no losses.   We look for some

Origins (1934) In 1934, Russian immigrant Rudolph Kunett founded the first commercial vodka distillery in the United States at 77 South Street, Bethel . This was the humble U.S. birthplace of Smirnoff Vodka .   Smirnoff in America Kunett purchased the U.S. rights to Smirnoff from Vladimir Smirnov. Though Americans weren’t big vodka drinkers at the time, this Bethel plant laid the foundation for vodka’s rise in the U.S.   From Bethel to the World By the late 1930s, Hartford’s 

As the nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Town of Bethel is joining communities across the country in celebrating this historic milestone. The Declaration, signed on July 4, 1776, was more than a statement of separation from Britain—it was a bold commitment to liberty, equality, and self-governance. While Bethel was not incorporated until 1855, residents of the region played their part in the Revolutionary War

Join the story - Celebrate History, Honor Community, Inspire the Future - Click on the link to find out more about celebrating the 250th Birthday of the signing of the Declaration of Independence - https://bethel-ct.gov/america250 Celebrate America 250 Bethel Join the Story!

Join community members and staff from Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center and Ridgefield Library as we read and discuss one of our nation’s most important founding documents! “Get to Know the Declaration of Independence,” a free public program, will be held at the Ridgefield Library on Thursday, September 11 at 7 p.m. Ridgefield, Conn .— We’ve all learned about the Declaration of Independence – but what does the 1776 document actually say? Go beyond the famous phrase “Life,

Visitors of all ages can try out historic tools and activities at #HandsOnHistory: It Takes a Village – open now through November 2! Ridgefield, Conn .— Try out historic tools, design a new town layout, and cast your vote for important trades – past, present, and future – at Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center’s (KTM&HC) #HandsOnHistory: It Takes a Village . The exhibition, located in KTM&HC’s Carriage Barn, is included in the cost of site admission and runs through Sunday

Tickets Now On Sale for History on Tap, September 26

Learn about how British intellectuals helped shape the Declaration of Independence on Thursday, August 21, when historian Peter Moore will present “Britain and the American Dream.” A free virtual program, the first in KTM&HC’s and Ridgefield Library’s collaborative “Declaration Deep Dive” speaker series. Ridgefield, Conn .— Join us on Thursday, August 21 at 7 p.m. on Zoom for "Britain and the American Dream" presented by Peter Moore - the first program of our speaker series "

Danbury, Connecticut celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026

Newtown, Connecticut celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026

As we approach America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation that is permeating communities across the nation. This milestone, marking two and a half centuries of independence, presents a unique opportunity to reflect on our shared heritage, celebrate cultural diversity, and engage future generations. Here’s what you can expect as we gear up for these important celebrations. US 250th Celebrations: An Overview The 250th anniversary, often

Brookfield, Connecticut celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026

America 250 Celebrations

Ridgefield, Conn .— The Barn Tag Sale at Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center (KTM&HC) is back and better than ever! Our historic carriage barn will feature 1,250 square feet of bargains on April 18-21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. The Barn Tag Sale is a popular community event that directly supports KTM&HC, with all profits benefitting the upkeep and preservation of the museum’s various historic buildings. The sale will feature furniture, china, toys, housewares, antiques

Visit the home and studio of America's most beloved Impressionist, and walk in the footsteps of generations of world-class artists. Wilton is home to the only National Historic site in Connecticut, Weir Farm. A National Park for Art preserves the life and work of Julian (J.) Alden Weir , a leading figure in the American Impressionist movement. The home, studios, and a significant portion of the 60 acre landscape remain largely intact for you and you family to enjoy. They offe