Looking Back

The Willington Historical Society was pleased to welcome Robert Harris in April to the Willington Library, who shared stories of the military contributions of African Americans from as early as the American Revolution.

Robert is a United States Army Veteran, a retired correctional officer, and is living his life long dream of riding with the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club on his 2006 Honda trike. He wrote the book, Historical Moments - Military Contributions of African Americans, which was published in 2020. This book is a brief look at individuals from Revolutionary times onward in America’s history. It is Robert’s hope that the information he shares will encourage all of us to explore more of America’s history. America’s history includes all Americans.

The Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club honors the legacy and rich history of the 9th and 10th Cavalry of Buffalo Soldiers who served in the US Army from 1866-1944. Since February 2004 the CT Chapter has been a part of the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers / Troopers Motorcycle Club (NABSTMC). Joining Harris from the Hartford CT Chapter of the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club are: From left, Dwight “Little-d” Floyd, John “Wolverine” Gaskin, Robert “Off Road” Harris, Scott “No-Name” Hamilton; not shown Florine Harris.

Tavern Times - ADA Compliance Update @ Glazier Tavern

In the last newsletter, we touched on the reasons for American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance at the Tavern and also that we had engaged Architect Art Hall of Vernon, to work with the Society on this upgrade. Recently, Art presented us with preliminary plans for several configurations of an accessible rest room. Once a final option is selected and detailed plans developed, the Society will solicit bids for construction costs. The hope is that the bids will be received by year’s end, marking the beginning of the end of completion of that portion of the project.

Other Tavern updates in progress will be the installation of new garage doors, as well as the pouring of a concrete surface in the garage area, which should eliminate the problem posed by the existing dirt floor. These improvements will better facilitate artifact and archival storage in that area of the building. This part of the Tavern’s restoration is made possible by using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds which helps support our small nonprofit organization.

THANK YOU! again to our members, friends, neighbors and anonymous supporters for your contributions that are making this renovation possible.

Coming Soon

The Willington Historical Society is pleased to announce the publication of a calendar for 2025 filled with photos of our town that will be sure to be nostalgic and bring a smile to your face. The calendars will be available for purchase at the Willington Flea Market and at our Annual Meeting. The cost will be $10; the proceeds will help fund the Society’s varied programs.