Tag: New England

New Exhibit @ Institute for American Indian Studies on Native American Identity

The Institute for American Indian Studies located at 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut has just announced a new temporary traveling exhibit, “Native American Identity Stolen, Sold, and Reclaimed.” This exhibition invites guests of the museum to reflect on the stories that every one of us carries, consciously or not about Native American People. It is an enlightening and thoughtful journey through Native American stereotypes and more. This exhibit will be up through August. The Insitute is participating in the Summer at the Museum Program where one child from Connecticut 18 and under accompanied by an adult gets in free through September 4.


“Native American Identity Stolen, Sold, and Reclaimed,” traces the story of 500 years of Western perceptions that have been placed on Indigenous peoples of North America through family myths and popular culture that have been woven into a mythology depriving Native American People of their cultural, ethnic, and linguistic diversity.

Walking through this exhibit, visitors will see an interesting array of displays that explore misguided representations of Native American People in film, news, print media, literature, art, and commercial products. These displays highlight that Native Americans have a very limited scope of representation. They are most often represented either as historical figures belonging to the past or as stereotypical cliches, such as the Indian Princess, the Savage Indian, or the Noble Savage. Displays highlight tropes in advertising, films, T.V. shows, video games, and more that embrace these stereotypical generalizations, and in doing so, validate them in the way people view Indigenous people.

The final set of displays showcases an alternative narrative through a series of short bios on Native Americans from just about every walk of life and from many different time periods. Their stories and self-expression seek to help visitors break the cycle of misrepresentation in a positive and uplifting manner. As, Dr. Janine Pease concludes in one of the displays, “What’s been lost over many generations, it will take perhaps that many generations to restore…the challenge is to realize the power we do have. It’s not going to take some outside power. It’s power within that will really make the difference.”



About the Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present allow visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT

JanetLeave a comment

Why Were Tartans Once Banned?

Tartans have a long and complicated history. For many people, tartans conjure up the moody, misty, heather-strewn glens of the Scottish Highlands. Most historians, according to the Scottish Tartan Authority, believe that tartan was worn in the Scottish Highlands since the Third century. How it was conceptualized and exactly who produced the first tartan cloth remains lost in the mists of time.

Spellbinding beauty of the Scottish Highlands

Traditionally, made from wool, using a simple two-over-two twill weave to create a bright pattern of interlocking stripes, tartan cloth was made into clothes first worn by the Gaelic-speaking clans located in the north of Scotland. Today, we know this area as the Scottish Highlands. Tartans began to gain popularity in 1471 when the tartan cloth was purchased for King James and his Queen, making it popular in the Scottish court. In 1535, it became so popular that King James V wore tartan when hunting in the Highlands, and by 1587, documents show that Hector MacLean of Duart paid taxes owned on his land with his green, black, and white “hunting” tartan cloth, not with money. By the early 1700s, Scottish Regiments adopted tartans for their uniforms, with the Black Watch as the first Highland Regiment to appear in tartan.

The Battle of Culloden, David Morier

The trouble with tartans began to brew in 1746 when Scotland’s Bonnie Prince Charlie (Charles Edward Stewart) led an army of tartan-clad warriors, known as the Jacobites into England in 1745. This uprising attempted to topple England’s Protestant King George II from the throne and to restore Scotland’s Catholic House of Stuart. By wearing tartan and Highland dress, the warriors showed allegiance to Scotland’s Bonnie Prince Charlie, also known as “the Younger Pretender” due to his dashing good looks. After the Jacobite defeat at Culloden in 1746, which ended the Stuart cause, all Highland dress and traditional clothing that reflected the cultural heritage of the region was banned. It wasn’t until 1822 that King George IV lifted the ban by wearing tartan on his first visit to Scotland to encourage unity between Britain and Scotland.

Sir David Wilkie’s flattering portrait, painted in 1829, of King George IV in kilt during the visit to Scotland in 1822. The King wore the Royal Stewart tartan, flesh-colored hose and the green sash of the Order of the Thistle.

Through the centuries, tartan patterns have proven to be surprisingly flexible with a timeless appeal in regard to the whim of fashion, and in some cases politics. One of the key reasons why tartan has remained popular is because of its versatility. It can be worn up or down, in the field or out on the town. Today, actors and models, politicians and royalty, hip-hop musicians and punk rockers, as well as regular working folk – men, women, and children, all enjoy wearing tartan at one time or another.

The Best Place in Connecticut for Tartan

Connecticut’s best shop for tartan shirts, for men and women, is BraeVal in the center of Litchfield. BraeVal is a Scottish word for the Upland River Valleys that exist between the mountains and the rugged brae of the Scottish Highlands where streams and rivers tumble into the lochs and the turbulent North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Best of all, there is no tartan ban here … they are alive and well – and thriving! A visit here is almost as good as a ticket to the Highlands! They also have a massive website.

BraeVal – Form, Function and Style

What makes BraeVal in Litchfield distinctive is that it is the home of Buffalo Plaid tartan brought to America by the owner’s uncle Big Jock McClusky. All the cuffs and collars of BaeVal’s custom-made tartan patterned shirts are embellished with Buffalo Plaid to acknowledge how this tartan crossed the Atlantic and became distinctly American. The tartan apparel found here is unique because it is made of a trademarked fabric that is an all-natural combination of ring-spun Merino wool and long-staple cotton that not only lasts for years, it also self-regulates in a variety of temperatures ensuring total comfort. At BraeVal, tartan patterns are always evolving to meet new fashion trends and environmental standards.

JanetLeave a comment

Why Taking a Sunset Cruise Is A Good Idea with the Norwalk Seaport Association

While most of us admire the sunset from the shoreline, taking in the sunset on the water is an extraordinary experience that can be done close to home, right in Norwalk, Connecticut. It’s nice to know that you can do something unique that is close by and easy to get to without planning a big fancy getaway. Imagine breathing in the fresh ocean air and feeling the tingle of the salt on your face as you slowly cruise past the islands situated right off the coast of Norwalk in Long Island Sound. There is a feeling of serenity watching seabirds glide as you cruise past Norwalk’s necklace of islands.

Taking a two-hour sunset cruise with the Seaport Association through Norwalk Harbor is always a good idea because there is no better or more affordable way to experience Norwalk Harbor than on board the Seaport’s vessel. The two-hour sunset cruise is offered by the Seaport Association Wednesdays – Sunday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. through September 17th. Passengers are encouraged to bring snacks, BYOB, plastic cups, openers, and snacks, to add to the fun. There is comfortable seating in a covered and uncovered deck area on the vessel that holds only 49 passengers, so it is never too crowded. For sunset cruise tickets go to http://www.seaport.org

The friendly crew welcomes passengers aboard and the Captain tells stories of merchants and sailors that have traversed this ancient waterway for centuries. The journey continues as the vessel slowly wends its way through Norwalk Harbor, passing many islands. Some of them have idyllic names like Tavern Island, once owned by the famous Broadway playwright Billy Rose, Shea Island, named in honor of native Pfc. Daniel Shea, Medal of Honor recipient for his bravery in the Vietnam War, and Chimmon Island, the largest island in the Norwalk Chain of Islands. Highlights of the sunset tour include passing Sheffield Island Lighthouse, built in 1868, and two rare sparkplug Lighthouses, Peck Ledge built in 1906, and Greens Ledge built in 1902. As the vessel returns to the dock, passengers watch as the city of Norwalk begins to light up, and just in time for dinner, with many restaurants steps away from the Seaport Dock.

Best of all, a sunset cruise is therapeutic because it reminds us that taking a break from the daily grind is a good thing to do. It gives passengers the opportunity to soak up the last rays of the sun while reflecting on the accomplishments of the day, and everything we have to be grateful for.

Sunset Cruise Schedule & Parking
The boat leaves from the dock on 4 North Water Street at 6:30 p.m., and returns at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday – Sunday evenings, June through September. The Seaport Dock is adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge at the corner of Washington and North Water Streets. Parking is available in the adjacent lot or at the Maritime Center Parking Garage. For tickets visit http://www.seaport.org or call 203-838-9444. Sunset cruises are $35 per person. The boat sails promptly as scheduled so it is best to arrive at the dock 30 minutes before departure to facilitate the boarding process.

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Gary LeVox Lead Singer for Rascal Flatts Headlines 45th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival

The Seaport Association is proud to announce that at the 45th Norwalk Oyster Festival Gary LeVox, Lead Singer for the contemporary country music band Rascal Flatts will Headline the 45th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival. This year the festival will take place on Friday, September 8, Saturday, September 9, and Sunday, September 10. On Saturday, September 9th, LeVox will perform countless #1 Rascal Flatts hits and some new music too.

“We are so excited to bring Gary LeVox, a world-class entertainer to the Norwalk Oyster Festival to help us celebrate our 45th annual Festival,” says, Mike Reilly, Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival, and President of the Norwalk Seaport Association. “Mr. Levox’s award-winning songs and legendary voice promise guests a show with all the hits that people love from Rascal Flatts plus some new stuff that they haven’t heard yet, making this performance one they will remember for years,” Reilly continued.

Gary LeVox along with bandmates Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney, founded Rascal Flatts in 2000, and they went on to enjoy one of the most successful careers in modern country music. Infusing the genre’s traditional sound with massive pop hooks, rock showmanship, and faithful positivity, they scored 17 No. 1 singles and sold over 23 million albums, while also selling more than 11 million concert tickets and earning 40+ awards-show trophies – making them the most awarded country group of the last decade.

After 20 years as frontman, Gary LeVox is embarking on a solo chapter. His debut single “The Distance” is one of five songs on LeVox’s debut solo collection ONE ON ONE (Big Machine Records), which includes multiple compelling collaborations. LeVox followed the release of ONE ON ONE with “We Got Fight,” a song featured as the coveted end credit in Netflix’s film The Ice Road. LeVox has recently released his first solo country single, “Get Down Like That,” and plans to release more new music this year.

Now in its 45th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the maintenance and care of Sheffield Island Lighthouse, a historic site on the National Register. The three-day Norwalk Oyster Festival which takes place on 42 Seaview Ave. in Veterans Park in Norwalk is held every September to celebrate the maritime heritage of Norwalk. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for its music, its wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village. The festival is taking place on Friday, September 8, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 9, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 10, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Rain or Shine. For tickets visit http://www.seaport.org

The Festival volunteer organizers would like to thank all those that sponsor this event, including First County Bank, the Presenting Sponsor that helps to make this fundraising event possible.

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Join the Flock – Go On A Birding Safari with the Norwalk Seaport Association

There is nothing that says summer like a birding safari with the <a href="http://There is nothing that says summer like a birding safari with the Norwalk Seaport Association. Birding cruises are one of the most popular excursions operated by the Seaport Association because it brings adults and children up close to birds in their maritime natural habitat. Adding to the fun is the fact that Long Island Sound is a birding hot spot in Connecticut, a state that is rich in birdlife with more than 430 different species to spot.

Regardless if you are a veteran or novice birding enthusiast this cruise is an ideal way to add seabirds to your list. This year, the Seaport’s vessel, the C.J. Toth, a 49- passenger vessel will head out at 8 a.m. and return to the dock at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 28, and Sunday, June 4, 11, and 18. This guided bird cruise is ideal for adults and children because it is a fun and educational way to experience nature.

Passengers on this eco-styled guided bird cruise are being led by birding enthusiast, James Leone, who has been birding for six-plus years. Leone is extremely knowledgeable about the identification status and distribution of birds in Connecticut and, specifically in Long Island Sound. “I am looking forward to helping people spot as many birds as they can and sharing my knowledge about their habitat, needs, and importance to the eco-system. I have identified 330 species of birds in Connecticut, and 300 birds in Fairfield County alone,” says Leone. It is exciting to be out on the water this time of year because you never know what will fly by – which makes every cruise different and exciting at the same time,” Leone added. In addition to birding in Connecticut, Leone has birded in Thailand and Costa Rica as well as all over the United States, spotting more than 1,200 birds. He has attended the prestigious birding program at Arizona’s Camp Chiricahua, where he developed a greater understanding of birds and their habitat, which he will be sharing with the lucky passengers on this cruise.

Egret Up Close With Fish Michael Brinkley

A special highlight of this cruise is the chance to spot birds at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island. Because of the shape of the boat, you can really get close to the shoreline. Here you will see a variety of habitats that support nesting and wading birds. This spot is known for its small population of herring and great black-backed gulls that nest along Sheffield Island’s rocky shoreline. The importance of the Norwalk Islands to wildlife, especially migratory birds is enormous, and the special Bird Cruises hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association give nature enthusiasts the chance to spot these magnificent seabirds up close with the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide.

Passengers are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to the 8 a.m. departure. The vessel leaves from the Seaport Dock located on 4 North Water Street adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge at the corner of Washington and Water Streets in South Norwalk. Parking is available at the adjacent lot or at the Maritime Center Parking Garage. Tickets are available online in advance by clicking here and are $25 for children and $35 for adults. The Seaport Association advises reserving your Bird Cruise early because these popular excursions sell out. Make sure you include your email when reserving your ticket. If the tour is canceled due to inclement weather the Norwalk Seaport Association will contact you via your email.

Seagull with Crab Michael Brinkley

About the Norwalk Seaport Association
The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.”>Norwalk Seaport Association. Birding cruises are one of the most popular excursions operated by the Seaport Association because it brings adults and children up close to birds in their maritime natural habitat. Adding to the fun is the fact that Long Island Sound is a birding hot spot in Connecticut, a state that is rich in birdlife with more than 430 different species to spot.

JanetLeave a comment

Gear – Up for 2023 Summer Camp @ Institute for American Indian Studies

This summer the Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington, Connecticut is offering six weeks of summer camp where Native American history will come alive through fun activities offered by the Educational Department of the Institute. Hiking in the woods, mock archaeological digs, educational games, listening to traditional Native American stories, learning new crafts, and working together to complete a group project are just some of the highlights. This year’s summer camp program encourages children to connect with nature, and appreciate culture more than 10,000 years old while enhancing their teambuilding skills and, making new friends. For more information https://www.iaismuseum.org/summer-camp/

Six weekly camps with different themes are offered from June 26 – August 11, for children six–twelve, Monday – Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is available online. For questions call 868-0518 ext. 453 or email gbenjamin@iaismuseum.org

Children that love archeology and wonder what tools archaeologists use to uncover clues will enjoy Puzzles of the Past: Putting it All Together, from June 26- June 30. Mock archaeological digs and learning how to use a variety of tools are part of the discovery in solving riddles from the past! If your child is curious about how to survive in the great outdoors, Take Shelter! One of Your Five Basic Needs runs from July 10 – July 14 and promises to be as fun as it is informative. This week’s programs show campers how important it is to understand the environment and how to construct shelters from it, just as Indigenous inhabitants of the Americas did centuries ago.

For children that think technology is just a modern concept, the July 17-21 session, Learning the ABC’s of Traditional Tech, might change their minds! This week, campers will learn about ancient technologies that were critical to survival and had nothing to do with computers or cell phones. Perfect to encourage the budding ecologist and children that love the environment, Stories of Survival: Native Lifeway’s in the Eastern Woodlands, from July 24-28, shows children how Native cultures have used their understanding and knowledge of the natural world to thrive for thousands of years.

Ideal for curious campers, Being Resourceful: Gifts of the Natural World, from July 31 – August 4, shares the ecological lessons from Native cultures that are inspiring and timely. This week’s highlights include learning animal tracking skills, identifying plants, and much more. If your child is creative and inquisitive don’t miss the final camp, August 7 – August 11, Etuaptmumk: A Different Way of Thinking. Through traditional Native American stories, mock archeological digs, and group projects, campers will learn the benefits of looking at things from two different perspectives – traditional Indigenous knowledge and Western Scientific thought.

About The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have a 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

JanetLeave a comment