Villages ofEssex

Villages of Essex
THE
TOWN GUIDE
ESSEX
■ ■ ■
CENTERBROOK
■ ■ ■
IVORYTON
Presented by
VALLEY
COURIER
Greetings to our
ESSEX NEIGHBORS
Shore Publishing Community Newspapers
P.O. Box 1010, 724 Boston Post Road
Madison, CT 06443
203-245-1877
www.zip06.com
Publisher
Lisa Miksis
Patrick Callahan
Shane Bonanno
Peter Bonanno
Rick Greene
Diane Gregory
Leslie Holland
Donn Holland
James Leo
Elke Martin
Section Editor
Jen Matteis
Advertising Director
Robyn Collins
Creative Director
Julie Eckart Johnson
Advertising Staff
Stephanie Alderman
Hope Allain
Lindsay Braun
Shannon Cushing
Ben Cadwell
Lisa Martin
Gail Rubin
Lorinne Sekban
Production Staff
Jennifer Corthell
Chris Dobbins
Todd Rogers
Marguerite Mattison
Table of Contents
Reaching the Most Qualified Buyers for Your Home
Bobbi McBride Doyen
By Dollar Volume
35.2%
Essex Board of Trade ................................7
20,000
Where to Go ........................................8-11
22.8%
15,000
Connie OBrien
10,000
Roger Parkman
11.2%
5.9%
5,000
4.8%
4.4%
3.9%
COMPETITOR
#1
COMPETITOR
#2
COMPETITOR COMPETITOR
#3
#4
COMPETITOR COMPETITOR
#5
#6
Marian Bairstow,
Marketing Director
“Is Chester Village West different from
other senior living communities?”
Yes we are. We offer large apartments in a small
community. Come see!
“Does Chester Village West offer Health
Services?” Yes!
“Can I move to Chester Village West Now?”
Yes, I can help!
“How can I get more information about
Chester Village West?”
Contact Marian at (860) 526-6800 to schedule
a personal visit and get more information.
You can also visit our website at
www.ChesterVillageWestLCS.com.
Who’s Who in Town Government ..........16
Town Map ..........................................18-19
Based on information from Connecticut for the period 1/1/09 through 12/31/09. Due to MLS reporting methods and allowable reporting policy, this data is only informational and may not be completely accurate.
Therefore, Coldwell Banker Residentialn Brokerage does not guarantee the data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS’s may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.
Laurel Peters
Where to Eat ..........................................13
These are some of the
questions often asked by
those inquiring about
our senior community.
As the Marketing
Director at Chester
Village West, I would
enjoy answering your
questions in person,
so give me a call today!
Civic and Community Organizations ... 14-15
0
COLDWELL
BANKER
Letter from the First Selectman ...............4
Essex History .........................................5-6
Market Share Sold 1/1/09 - 12/31/09
30,000
25,000
Janice Murphy
Chester Village West
is Unique.
RESIDENTAIL BROKERAGE
Joanne Ryan
Town Profile............................................21
What to See ............................................22
What to Do ........................................24-30
Exceptional Service, Established Charm,
Exciting Future.
317 West Main Street • Chester, CT 06412
(860) 526-6800 • Fax (860) 526-6018
www.ChesterVillageWestLCS.com
Cover Design: Jennifer Corthell
Cover Photo: Jody Dole
2 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 3
Essex
by First Selectman Philip Miller
Welcome to Essex, halfway between New York and Boston, and a
short commute to our capital city of Hartford.
Our three villages that make up Essex were settled and built around
the Falls River, which flows eastward from the hills of Ivoryton, through
the plains of Centerbrook, along the rocky heights of Essex Village, and
into the magnificent Connecticut River, a few short miles from Long
Island Sound.
Essex has beautiful landscapes, majestic trees and gardens, and
interesting architecture, from the factory homes of Ivoryton with
Federals, Victorians, and capes and historic churches, factories, and an
1892 town hall.
We celebrate our history and we keep alive a strong tradition of
benevolence and welcome to our citizens and guests. Our town has
many cultural, historical, and educational experiences and attractions
to offer, from the Essex Steam Train to the Ivoryton Playhouse to the
Connecticut River Museum, Connecticut Audubon Eco Travel, the Fife
and Drum Museum, the Bushy Hill Nature Center, and the Sailing
Masters of 1812, whose members are attired in the traditional uniforms
of Navy midshipmen of the time period. Essex is also known for its
multitude of parades, from the Groundhog Day Parade with Essex Ed
to the holiday season “Trees in the Rigging,” to the “Burning of the
Ships,” which commemorates the 1814 raid by British Marines who
burned 27 ships in the yards and harbor.
“SOMEWHERE
IN A LITTLE
TOWN IN
ENGLAND,
THEY’RE
TALKING
ABOUT MY
HOUSE IN
ESSEX.”
We have many active civic groups that
invigorate our community, including the
Rotary, the Lions, merchant groups, our
historical society, garden club, Veterans of
Foreign Wars, strong Scouting programs,
and two vibrant libraries.
Essex provides an outstanding culinary
experience, including the historic 1776
Griswold Inn, the renowned Copper Beech
Inn, Gabrielle’s, the Black Seal, and Oliver’s
Taverne. We have art galleries, antique
businesses, great shops and boutiques, and a beautiful working harbor.
We are very proud of our schools. Essex Elementary is an outstanding
program and we share a regional secondary school system with our
neighbors in Deep River and Chester. Our superbly equipped and
trained volunteer fire departments and ambulance corps and our
professional constabulary give us a confidence that well reflects a
continuity of guidance and care.
The spirit of volunteerism is alive in Essex. We are a vibrant and
welcoming place to live, work, and play and we are proud of our past as
we live our positive vision of the future.
So please explore, discover, and enjoy our exciting and enchanting
way of life here in Essex, Connecticut.
While real estate by nature is local,
today the market for property is
national, even global. As part of
the Sotheby’s International Realty®
network encompassing 40 countries
and territories, we can attract
interest for your property from far
beyond your local market.
1635
The Saybrook Colony is first settled at Saybrook Point, adjacent to
the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. Not originally part
of the Colony of Connecticut, this area encompasses the presentday towns Old Saybrook, Old Lyme, and Lyme, along with a small
section of East Lyme, Essex, Deep River, Chester, and Westbrook.
mid-1640s
The Saybrook Colony becomes part of Connecticut.
1648
The Saybrook Colony has been divided into formal quarters. One
of these sections, Potapoug Quarter, includes
what today are the towns of Essex, Deep River,
and Chester, with their villages of Centerbrook,
Ivoryton, and Winthrop.
Local Expertise. Global Exposure.
ESSEX BROKERAGE | wpsir.com
55 MAIN STREET 860.767.7488
Shore Publishing
Dam on Falls River,
Ivoryton (top); ladies of the
Centerbrook Congregational
Church
1664
The small ship Diligence brings cargo from
Essex to Barbados in the West Indies, a first for
the area.
Photos courtesy of Essex
Historical Society
1700
A number of dams are built on the Falls River
in Centerbrook to power a sawmill, gristmill (a
mill for grinding grain), trip hammer shop, and
iron works.
Between 1700 and 1730, Centerbrook was
established as the first “center” of town. By the end
of the 18th century, the commercial center of town
was moved to what is now called Champlin Square.
1722
The Connecticut Colonial Court allows the establishment of the
Second Ecclesiastical Society in Center Sayebrooke (later renamed
Centerbrook) in recognition of the fact that there are now enough
residents to support a Congregational church (the Centerbrook
Congregational Church).
1724
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
4 • Essex Town Guide 2010
History
A Timeline of Essex
Welcome to
The Centerbrook Congregational Church is built. Renovated in
1757 and replaced by the current building in 1790, it is today the
oldest extant church structure in Middlesex County.
1727
There are at least 136 adult members of the Congregational
Church, which represents the gross majority of the population of
Potapoug Quarter.
Shore Publishing
1748
Main Street Essex is designed.
1776
Captain Uriah Hayden constructs the ship Oliver Cromwell in the
side yard of his property at the foot of Main Street. Besides being
the largest vessel built in the Connecticut River Valley at the time, it
established Potapoug (Essex) as a prime shipbuilding area. Between
the Revolutionary and Civil wars, more than 600 vessels of various
types were produced here.
The Griswold Inn opens its doors for business.
1814
On April 8, British Marines attack Essex’s shipyards, destroying
28 ships at Potapoug Point to prevent the building of privateers that
were designed to prey upon slow-moving British merchantmen and
bring captured spoils back to port for resale. This was one of the
greatest financial losses suffered by the Americans during the War
of 1812 and certainly one of the great political events in the history
of Connecticut.
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 5
A Timeline of Essex
The Essex Board
of Trade
Helping to Share the Best Small Town in America
Continued
1820
The name “Essex” is first applied when the Potapoug Point area
became the Essex Borough of Saybrook.
1834
The firm of Comstock & Griswold is established. This was the
start of a career in the production of ivory and piano-related parts
by Samuel M. Comstock
1851
The 1776 Griswold Inn—known locally as the “Gris”
1852
Essex Borough splits from Old Saybrook, forming the separate
town of Essex, essentially the Essex Village of today.
1859
Centerbrook and West Centerbrook (Ivoryton by the early 1880s)
are added to Essex, forming the current 12-square-mile town.
1862
Samuel Merritt Comstock and his partner George A. Cheney
found Comstock, Cheney & Co., the largest manufacturing
facility in the lower valley, responsible for making Ivoryton an
ivory and piano parts center of the United States.
The Essex Steam Train—the only active steam train in
Connecticut—is constructed.
1886
The Incarnation Camp—the oldest coed camp in the country—
is established in Ivoryton.
Essex Dock; photo by Hope Allain
1911
The Ivoryton Playhouse is constructed. Initially used as a
recreation hall for the employees of the Comstock-Cheney factory,
Milton Stiefel turned the unused recreation hall into a theater in
1930. The Ivoryton Playhouse became the first self-supporting
summer theater in the nation.
CHRISTOPHER L.
Essex Mariner
A Nautical Merchant
1936
1938
Mari
ne
✩
✩
A
A hurricane arrives after days of rain, resulting in many trees
being uprooted due to the high winds and softened earth, and
destroying many pleasure craft in Essex Harbor.
ex
ss
r
The Connecticut River flood inundates the waterfront properties
in Essex.
N
t
1854
1868
au
n
The State Legislature approves the formation of a new town, Old
Saybrook, further dividing the original Saybrook Colony. It includes
the present-day town of Old Saybrook and Essex Borough.
E
Essex flourishes as a ship-building center. Both the 1,400-ton
Middlesex and the 1,118-ton Irene are built this year.
The Essex Board of Trade, Inc. is an all-volunteer,
non-profit organization made up of business
owners from Essex, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton
who care about their communities as much as their
bottom lines.
The Board of Trade was incorporated in January
1999. Originally the members were primarily
Main Street retailers; however, the organization has
grown to include virtually every type of business
that is based in Essex Township. The Board of
Trade organizes many of the events in Essex that
have been family traditions for years and also
supports numerous local non-profit organizations
by offering them free memberships and help with
their various events and causes.
All businesses are encouraged to join the Essex
Board of Trade. Please visit www.essexct.com for
more information on the board and on events and
updates on all things Essex.
The Essex Board of Trade meets on the third Friday
of every month at 9 a.m. at the Essex Library, 33 West
Avenue.
tic
al Mer
a
ch
• Model Boats
• Nautical Brass
• Carved Shore Birds
• Balance Toys
• Nautical Instruments
• Teak Tables
• Nautical Toys
1982
Severe rains flood the area (up to 15 inches of rain between
June 5 and 6), resulting in burst dams and inundating the Falls
River basin, causing havoc that took years to resolve.
51 Main Street
Griswold Square
Historic Essex Village, CT 06426
2010
860•767•7805
Slightly more than 6,500 people live in Essex, historically the
highest population ever.
www.essexmariner.com
Essex Dock from Old Dock June 24, 1898; photos courtesy of Essex Historical Society
6 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
MORANO
ATTORNEY AT LAW
Former Chief
State’s Attorney
Serving all State Courts
in the following areas:
Criminal Law
Pardons
Drunk Driving Cases
Personal Injury
Workers’ Compensation
Victim Representation
Real Estate
Wills
Property Tax Appeals
and other areas
of general practice
25 Main Street • P.O. Box 200 • Essex, CT 06426 • (860) 767-1515
164 Hempstead Street • New London, CT 06320 • (860) 418-7779
clm@moranolegal.com
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 7
Where to Go
Recreational Opportunities in Essex
The Essex Park and Recreation Department offers a variety of
activities and facilities for the residents of its three villages. The
department maintains 10 different scenic locations that offer
everything from swimming to baseball fields to the perfect picnic
spot. Each park is provided with its own unique features to suit
many needs.
Throughout the seasons, Park and Rec offers a number of
different programs, including activities ranging from sports and
hiking to swimming and picnicking or just taking a stroll, as well
as a Paw Park at Viney Hill Brook Park for dogs and their walkers.
Along with its programs, the department provides the locations for
the events of many local organizations such as the farmers’ market,
the Essex Lions’ Lobster Bake, craft fairs, and many other events
including the popular Wednesday night summer concert series.
The Town of Essex supplies two locations for residents to play
tennis, one in the parking lot of Essex Town Hall and the other off
of the parking lot at Essex Elementary School.
For more information on the many opportunities for recreation in
Essex, visit www.essexct.gov/departments/parks.html.
Hubbard Field
Parks in Essex
____________________________________________________
Main Street Park
Clark’s Pond
This meadow and pond is found off of Main Street in the village
of Ivoryton. In addition to its dock which is ideal for fishing, many
residents head there for ice skating during the winter months.
Comstock Fields
Situated off of Park Road in Ivoryton, this area holds a multipurpose field merged between two baseball fields, one of which is
regulation sized. The area offers a portable toilet, parking area, and
bleachers. It is commonly used by Essex Little League, Babe Ruth
League, Tee Ball, and Valley Soccer Club, and it also hosts pick-up
games during the summer.
Dickinson Park
Located off of North Main Street in the village of Essex, this
quaint little park is surrounded by a rock wall with iron gates and is
situated tucked away by beautiful trees, making it a perfect spot for
weddings or family gatherings.
Grove Street Park
Families enjoy gathering at this park for playtime and picnics. It
has a beautiful picnic area with toddler playscapes and playground
equipment surrounded by a walking trail that winds around the
outer edge of the park through the trees. There are picnic tables
and benches for families to enjoy a little outdoor time and there is
a seasonal portable toilet. Don’t forget to come and enjoy the many
activities that go on in this park, including the annual Easter Egg
Hunt on the Saturday before Easter and Essex Family Day, which is
the fourth Sunday in September.
8 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Baseball fever hits Hubbard Field on North Main Street every year
starting in April. This location offers a Little League baseball field,
basketball courts in the parking area, a beach volleyball court, multipurpose field, portable batting cage, bleachers, and dugouts. During
baseball games, a concession stand and restrooms become available.
This area plays host to Essex Little League starting in the spring and
beach volleyball nights on Tuesdays during August.
Ivoryton Green
This tucked in, grassy area is home to a beautiful gazebo, picnic
tables, and benches. A portable, seasonal restroom is also available.
The park is found on Main Street in the village of Ivoryton right
next to a historical gem, the Ivoryton Playhouse. It is the perfect
location for spending a lazy summer night listening to blues, jazz,
or whatever the sound of the day is at the summer concert series.
On the Saturday before Halloween, the Ivoryton Village Pumpkin
Festival takes over and fills the green with the pumpkin-carving
talents of the residents of the three villages.
Created for the benefit of the town and built by volunteers, the
newly restored Main Street Park is a hub of activity for the village
of Essex. This scenic spot in the middle of Main Street features a
gazebo, benches and picnic tables, new restroom facilities, gorgeous
water views, a boat launch, and a municipal parking area. This
area plays host to a number of town events, including the farmers’
market, summer concert series, Lobster Bake, May Market, and
various craft fairs. This enticing spot is the perfect place to take a
break from a day of shopping on Main Street; stop by for a stroll or
bring a picnic or a snack from a local establishment to enjoy.
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Sunset Pond
This quaint location off of West Avenue in the village of Essex
sports a lovely pond with a wooden dock. It is a popular place for
residents to ice skate or hold remote control boat races.
Viney Hill Brook Park
The town’s newest park, open from sunrise to sunset through
Nov. 1, offers a beach and swimming facility. Lifeguards are on
duty from the last day of school through Labor Day weekend from
noon to 5 p.m. Portable, seasonal restroom facilities are available.
Year-round, the park offers nature trails and a fenced-in Paw Park
which provides a place for man’s best friend to romp and play with
other four-legged, licensed residents. A separate area is available
for small dogs. This year, the Park and Rec summer program will
spend Friday mornings in the park, which is also the location for its
summer beach parties.
Tel: 860.767.8635
Fax: 860.767.6829
5 Essex Square Essex, CT 06426
Web:rachelthomasrealty.com
Continued on page 11
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 9
Come and Join Our Family!
Welcoming New Patients of All Ages
Where to Go
Continued
Land
Trust Properties in Essex
____________________________________________________
The Essex Land Trust (www.essexlandtrust.org) maintains the
following properties, which are open to the public:
Canfield Meadow Woods
James’ Glen
Cross Lots
Jean’s Island
Falls River Park
Millrace
Falls River Preserve
Osage Trails
Farm Hill Estates
Stanley Park
Fern Ledge
Tiley Pratt Pond
Heron Pond Preserve
Windswept Ridge
Essex Town Green; photo by Jess Smith
C
omprehensive
Wealth Management
Thomas H. Alexa, AAMS, CRPS, MBA
Accredited Asset Management Specialist
Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist
Deep River, CT | Office: (860) 526-1734
talexa@ol-advisors.com
Essex Family Dentistry
OHANESIAN/LECOURS, INC.
member: finra, sipc
Investment & Advisory Services
433 S. Main St., Suite 104 | West Hartford, CT 06110 | (860) 521-4751
Please call for hours and appointment times.
Connecticut’s Premier
Waterfront Dining
**** Zagat Rated ****
Fully Computerized including Digital Xrays & Imaging • Quality Comprehensive Care
Excellent-The New London Day
A Real Gem. One of the Top Ten Dining
Spots on the Eastern Seaboard
A local favorite located in the heart of Essex Village
Serving Lunch & Dinner 7 days a week
Monday- Friday
11:30- 3:30pm
5- close
Saturday & Sunday
11:30- 4pm
5- close
The Black Seal offers
a diverse selection of
updated American
Classics; seafood,
chicken, pasta, burger,
sandwiches & salads
-Peter Brown, Gastronomique
Overlooking an Armada of World Class Yachts
-The New York Times
BOOM
PETER P. TURTORO, D.M.D. • MELISSA DONOFRIO, D.M.D.
The Restaurant at Pilots Point Marina
63 Pilots Point Drive, Westbrook
26 Saybrook Road • Essex, CT • 860 767-9403
860.399.2322
www.boomrestaurant.net
10 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
www.theblackseal.net
15 Main Street, Essex
860.767.0233
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 11
Bushy Hill
Where to Eat
w w w. b u s h y h i l l . o r g
860-767-2148
American
________________________
PO Box 577, Ivoryton, CT 06442
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Black Seal Seafood Grille
15 Main Street
Essex
860-767-0233
http://theblackseal.net
Debbie’s Restaurant
33 Main Street
Centerbrook
860-767-8175
Gabrielle’s
78 Main Street
Centerbrook
860-767-2440
http://gabrielles.net
Marley’s Café
11 Ferry Street
Essex
860-767-2489
Tuskan Restaurant
115 Main Street
Ivoryton
860-767-6898
www.tuskans.com
Barbeque
________________________
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12 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Shore Publishing
Seaflour Foods
90 Main Street
Centerbrook
860-767-2031
www.seaflourfoods.com
French
________________________
Ice Cream, Coffee &
Dessert
________________________
Brasserie Pip
Copper Beech Inn
46 Main Street
Essex
860-767-0330
Grocery, Deli &
Catering
________________________
Abby’s Catering Company
11 Novelty Lane
Essex
860-767-9950
Bennie’s Farm Market
5 Main Street
Centerbrook
860-767-8448
Bun on the Run
24 Main Street
Centerbrook
860-767-3395
Cliff’s Quality Meats
88 Plains Road
Essex
860-767-1539
Chinese
________________________
Crow’s Nest Gourmet Deli
35 Pratt Street
Essex
860-767-3288
Fast Food
________________________
Dunkin’ Donuts
23 Main Street
Essex
860-767-0338
We’re excited to begin a great summer with many returning
staff and campers and look forward to seeing new faces!
Subway
125 Westbrook Road
and 10 Bokum Road
Essex
860-767-8646
Porky Pete’s BBQ
90 Plains Road
Essex
860-767-1021
Hong Kong Chinese Take Out
125 Westbrook Road
Essex
860-767-8588
Shore Publishing
Directory of Essex Restaurants
Olive Oyl’s Carry Out Cuisine
77 Main Street
Essex
860-767-4909
www.oliveoylscarryout.com
Essex Coffee & Tea Co.
51 Main Street
Essex
860-767-7804
Sweet P’s
51 Main Street
Essex
860-767-7805
Inns & Taverns
________________________
Copper Beech Restaurant
Copper Beech Inn
46 Main Street
Ivoryton
860-767-0330
www.copperbeechinn.com
Griswold Inn
36 Main Street
Essex
860-767-1776
www.griswoldinn.com
Package Stores
________________________
Bob’s Centerbrook Package Store
40 Main Street
Essex
860-767-8059
Essex Wine & Spirits
125 Westbrook Road
Essex
860-767-8606
That’s the Spirit Shoppe
11 North Main Street
Essex
860-767-8979
Pizza
________________________
Centerbrook Pizza Restaurant
10 Westbrook Road
Centerbrook
860-767-1056
Pizza Pub
15 Main Street
Centerbrook
860-767-1993
Ivoryton Tavern Cafe
8 Summitt Street
Ivoryton
860-767-1449
Oliver’s Taverne
124 Westbrook Road
Essex
860-767-2633
www.oliverstavern.com
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 13
in Essex
Civic Organizations
Philanthropic Organizations
____________________________________________________
Groups Working to Keep History Alive
____________________________________________________
Child & Family Agency of Southeastern Connecticut (with its
six fundraising auxiliaries) is a private, non-profit, voluntarily
supported organization that assists at-risk children and families.
Its programs deal with the prevention of child abuse, the
treatment of family violence, teen pregnancy, children’s health
care, childcare, parent education and children’s mental health.
For info, visit www.cfapress.org.
Today, the Connecticut River Museum keeps the river’s traditions
alive through educational programs, exhibitions, special events and
festivals. For info, visit www.ctrivermuseum.org.
The Essex Lions Club was chartered in 1950 by a group of men
with a unified vision of serving their community. Fifty-six years
later the world has changed but its members’ desire to serve
their community is as strong today as it ever was. For info, visit
www.essexlionsclub.com.
Literacy Volunteers Valley Shore, CT trains volunteer tutors to
teach basic reading and English as a second language primarily
to adult residents of the Valley Shore area who cannot read,
write, or speak English, or who would like to improve these
basic skills. For info, visit www.vsliteracy.org.
The Essex Historical Society was founded in 1954. Its main
objectives are to promote an interest in history, particularly of the
town of Essex, and to establish and maintain museums where books,
documents, pictures, furniture, tools, implements, records, and the
articles associated with the town’s history may be preserved and
displayed. For info, visit www.essexhistory.org.
Groups
That Promote Art and Music
____________________________________________________
The Community Music School’s mission is to provide a full range of
the finest possible instruction and musical opportunities to persons
of all ages and abilities, to increase appreciation of music and to
encourage a sense of joy in learning and performing, thus enriching
the life of the community. For info, visit www.community-musicschool.org.
of the community. Founded in 1952, the club seeks to further
the knowledge of gardening and artistic use of plant materials, to
stimulate interest in civic beautification, to aid in the conservation of
natural resources, and to promote educational and charitable projects
which emphasize conservation, ecology, and civic improvement. For
info, call 860-767-7263.
Founded in 1968, the Essex Land Trust (ELT) is an independent,
nonprofit organization supported by donations and managed by
volunteers. Land acquisition priority is open space in the Falls
River watershed. ELT maintains 500 acres of open space, and has
properties with 36 well-maintained trails managed by volunteer
stewards. The group has more than 400 members and more
than 150 volunteers, with no paid staff. Last year, ELT hosted
eight hikes, three canoe/kayak trips, seven educational events,
and three cruises on the Connecticut River. For info, visit www.
essexlandtrust.org.
The Ivoryton Library Association, organized in 1871, supports
the free and public Ivoryton Library, built in l889. The library is
one of the few libraries in the state housed in its original structure
that has continued to function as a library for more than l00 years.
The Town of Essex provides a portion of the library’s operating
expenses and the rest is raised through various fundraising
activities, donations, and grants as well as the yearly membership
drive. For info, visit www.ivoryton.lioninc.org.
The Frostbite Yacht Club hosts sailboat racing on the Connecticut
River during the months of March, April, May, October,
November, and December. For info, visit www.fbyc.org.
Library Associations
____________________________________________________
The Essex Library Association was born in 1889, when Dr. W.A.
Russell donated 50 books from his personal library to a group
of Essex residents who wanted to start a circulating library for
themselves and their friends. For info, visit www.essexlib.org.
Photo by Nancy Dionne
The Middlesex County Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of
life in Middlesex County. The foundation’s mission is to
work with charitably minded individuals and organizations
to build permanent endowments and other charitable
funds and to support local non-profit organizations
through effective grant-making to address community
needs. For info, visit www.middlesexcountycf.org.
The Paul & Lisa Program developed the Street Outreach
program in order to increase public awareness of child sexual
exploitation while continuing to aid those who had already
fallen victim to exploitation by helping them to leave the
streets. In 1982, the Paul & Lisa Program established itself as a
non-profit organization. For info, visit www.paulandlisa.org.
The Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries is an interfaith
ministry that provides food and fellowship to people in need
and educates its communities about hunger and poverty.
Founded in 1989 at the Baptist Church in Essex, the agency
continues in its mission to feed the hungry in body and spirit.
For info, visit www.shorelinesoupkitchens.org.
Tri-Town Youth Services is a non-profit agency that coordinates,
develops, and provides services dedicated to promoting the
positive growth and development of youth and families in
Chester, Deep River, and Essex, Connecticut. For info, visit
www.tritownys.org.
14 • Essex Town Guide 2010
The Company of Fifers & Drummers is a non-profit organization
formed in 1965 to perpetuate the historical significance and
folk traditions of fife and drum music and to foster the spirit of
fellowship among fifers and drummers everywhere. For info, visit
www.companyoffifeanddrum.org.
The Essex Art Association provides opportunities for young
talent, students, amateurs, and professional artists, and a venue for
displaying and selling their work. The association strives to promote
art appreciation and artists’ recognition in the communities that it
serves. For info, visit www.essexartassociation.org.
Outdoors and Environmental Organizations
____________________________________________________
Founded in 1898, the non-profit Connecticut Audubon Society
(CAS) has long been at the forefront of developing environmental
and natural history education programs in Connecticut, and now
achieves that on a national level through its EcoTravel program.
For info, visit www.ecotravel.ctaudubon.org.
Essex Boy Scouts of America provides a program for young
people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of
participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. For info,
visit www.scouting.org.
NEW
ENGLAND
ARCHITECTURAL
C O N S U LT I N G, L L C
ESSEX • CT
SIASCONSET • MA
Tel/Fax: 860-767-8099
E-Mail: RTLArchi1@aol.com
Richard T. Langdon, AIA, • Registered Architect
Essex Limousine
Our Services:
Weddings • Event Planning
Airport Transfers
Special Occasions
The non-profit Essex Garden Club is a member of the Federated
Garden Clubs of Connecticut whose purpose is to operate solely
for charitable and educational purposes conducive to the well-being
Shore Publishing
All Real Estate Companies
Are NOT Alike.
www.essexlimousine.com
135 Dennison Rd., Essex
800-864-2651
Shore Publishing
Real Estate
At Page Taft
Real Estate we
are committed
to delivering
unparalleled
service.
It’s called:
*Percentage based on Page Taft GMAC 06/07 Customer Satisfaction Survey
Call us to Experience the Difference!
860.767.5390
35 Main Street
Essex, CT 06426
PageTaft.com
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 15
Essex Town Hall, 29 West
Avenue, is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
Monday through Friday. For info, call 860767-4340. Fax: 860-767-8509.
Probate Court is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,
Monday through Friday.
Landfill & Recycling Center is
open Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and
Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Mike Birner
860-767-1926
Officer April Pawlow
860-767-1054
860-399-2111, ext. 8063 voice mailbox
Maintenance Department
Probate Court
Mark Hiatt
860-767-4340, ext. 136
Judge Deborah Pearl
860-767-4340, ext. 125
Fax: 860-767-2538
John Schumacher
860-767-4340, ext. 136
Social Services
Municipal Agent
860-767-4340, ext. 201
Dean Jacques
860-767-4340, ext. 201
djacques@essexct.gov
Park and Recreation
Tax Collector
Rick Audet
860-767-4340, ext. 148
raudet@essexct.gov
Megan D. Haskins
860-767-4340, ext. 120
mhaskins@essexct.gov
Landfill/Transfer Station
Selectman’s Office
Philip Miller
860-767-4340, ext. 114
pmiller@essexct.gov
Maria Lucarelli
860-767-4340, ext. 112
mlucarelli@essexct.gov
Animal Control
Joe Heller
860-767-3219
The Dog Pound is located on Dump Road,
near Town Garage.
Assessor
Jessica Graves, Assessor
860-767-4340, ext. 124
jgraves@essexct.gov
Nancy Berryman, Assist.
860-767-4340, ext. 123
nberryman@essexct.gov
PRIVATE &
GROUP LESSONS
the core of our program
Mary Ellen Barnes
860-767-4340, ext. 110
mbarnes@essexct.gov
Lynne Skinner
860-767-4340, ext. 121
lskinner@essexct.gov
Police
Town Clerk
Emergency: 911
860-767-1054
860-399-2111, ext. 8015
Fax: 860-767-4487
Frances Nolin
860-767-4340, ext. 129
fnolin@essexct.gov
Dana Novorio
860-767-4340, ext. 128
Kerry Taylor
State Trooper
860-767-1054
860-399-2111, ext. 8002
ktaylor@essexct.gov
SUMMER MUSIC
PROGRAMS
musical fun for all ages
ENSEMBLES
adding enrichment
KINDERMUSIK
where good beginnings
never end
NEW HORIZONS
proof that it’snever
too late!
COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL
Spencer’s Corner, Centerbrook
community-music-school.org • 860-767-0026
Health Department
Tree Warden
Cheryl Haase
860-767-4340, ext. 118
chasse@essexct.gov
Corporal Marc Pisciotti
860-767-1054
860-399-2111, ext. 8074 voice mailbox
mpisciotti@essexct.gov
Augie Pampel
860-767-0766
augiepampel@att.net
Corporal Russell Gingras
860-767-1054
860-399-2111, ext. 8073 voice mailbox
rgingras@essexct.gov
Marian Staye
860-767-4340, ext. 115
860-767-4340, ext. 119
mstaye@essexct.gov
Highway Department
David Caroline
860-767-0715
dcaroline@essexct.gov
Expert repairs all makes
Mon.-Fri. 10 am-5:30 pm
Thurs. 10 am-7 pm
Sat. 10am-5:30 pm
We are proud
to be part of
Your Community.
Robert Dixon
860-767-4340, ext. 127
rdixon@essexct.gov
Kelly Sterner
860-767-4340, ext. 122
ksterner@essexct.gov
Bike Fitting
Custom Frames
Precision Frame
Alignment
Margaret Y. Livingston
President and CEO
ESSEX
860-767-2405
PLAZA OFFICE
625 Boston Post Road, Guilford, CT 06437
(203) 453-6485
Financial Management & Trust
(203) 453-4771
Infinex Financial Group
(203) 453-5492
MADISON OFFICE
634 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 06443
(203) 318-1875
N O RT H M A D I S O N O F F I C E
494 Old Toll Road, Madison, CT 06443
(203) 421-7068
BRANFORD OFFICE
61 North Main Street, Branford, CT 06405
(203) 488-6823
EVERGREEN WOODS OFFICE
Zoning
Limited Hours
North Branford, CT 06471
(203) 488-4861
O L D S AY B R O O K O F F I C E
LENDING • PERSONAL BANKING • COMMERCIAL BANKING • FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT & TRUST
16 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Essex Plaza, Route 154
Exit 3 off Route 9
opposite Essex Steam Train
One Park Street, Guilford, CT 06437
Phone (203) 453-2721
Loan Administration
(203) 453-3290
Treasurer
Officer Salvatore Bevilacqua
860-767-1054
860-399-2111, ext. 8061
sbevilacqua@essexct.gov
www.clarkecycles.com
MAIN OFFICE
Building Dept. & Fire Marshal
Keith Nolin
860-767-4340, ext. 117
knolin@essexct.gov
COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL
Government
Who’s Who in Town
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
840 Boston Post Road,
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
(860) 388-3051
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 17
map (c)
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16
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18
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6
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MiddleCove
18 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Teal La.
22
Town
Park
Cross St.
5
2
age
x Vill
Esse
31
MAP KEY
1. Bannon, Ohansian & Lecours
2. Bennie’s Farm Market
3. Black Seal
4. Boatique USA
5. Law Offices of Chris Morano
6. Boom Restaurant
7. Clarke Cycles
8. Chester Village West
9. Community Music School
10. Colonial Market
11. Essex Family Dentistry
12. CT River Museum
13. Dance Corner
14. Essex Mariner
15. English Accents Antiques
3
T.
MA
Village
Essex
S.
Old Saybrook
.
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es
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9
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Main St
30
17
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HIG
H
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Connecticut River
GRO
VE
ST.
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AI
M
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FALLS RI V ER
9 32
2 23
MAIN
38
ST.
39
35 14
Ferry St.
28
16. Essex Books
17. Essex Hardware
18. Essex Limousine
19. Essex Savings Bank
20. Guardian Pest Control
21. Lord Nelson Antiques
22. N.E. Architectural Consulting
23. Gabrielles
24. Porky Pete’s
25. Grandfather Time
26. Sullivan Lawn Care
27. Guilford Savings Bank
28. Red Balloon
29. Incarnation Camp
30. Sea Sherpa
31. Sweet P’s
32. Tuskan Restaurant
33. Coldwell Banker
34. Middlesex Community Fund
35. Page Taft
36. Rachel Thomas
37. Peonies
38. Peter Charbonnier, Esq.
39. Scensibles
40. That’s the Spirit
41. The Spa of Essex
42. William Pitt Sotheby’s
International Realty
43. Yale-New Haven Hospital
Shore Publishing
Essex
Island
Marina
Scholes La.
42
Novelty La.
4
12
Town
Dock
154
Shore Publishing
Connecticut River
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 19
2010 SUMMER SEASON
We also have Friday morning shows for the kids!
Essex, Connecticut
CERC Town Profile 2010
Belongs to
Middlesex County
LMA New Haven
Middlesex County Economic Dev. Region
Connecticut River Estuary Planning Area
Town Hall
P.O. Box 98
Essex, CT 06426
(860) 767-4340
Incorporated in 1852
Demographics
Population (2009)
1990
2000
2009
2014
Town
5,904
6,505
6,706
6,543
-0.5%
County
143,196
155,071
164,892
166,731
0.2%
State
3,287,116
3,405,565
3,497,398
3,485,122
-0.1%
10
Land Area (sq. miles)
Pop./ Sq. Mile (2009)
647
Median Age (2009)
47
Households (2009)
2,795
Med HH Inc. (2009) $86,406
369
447
42
63,185
$74,860
5,009
698
40
1,311,307
$68,055
'09-'14 Growth / Yr
Race/Ethnicity (2009)
White
Black
Asian Pacific
Native American
Other/Multi-Race
Hispanic (any race)
Town
6,461
43
62
23
117
133
Poverty Rate (1999)
2.8%
Educational Attainment (2009)
Persons Age 25 or Older
Town
High School Graduate
1,072
Some College
1,042
2,759
Bachelors or More
County
148,059
5,933
3,760
999
6,141
6,840
State
2,756,861
319,730
120,457
9,990
290,360
426,255
4.6%
7.9%
%
21%
20%
54%
State
688,198
537,908
854,541
%
29%
23%
36%
Age Distribution (2009)
7
June 9-June 2
Male
Female
County Total
State Total
July 7-Aug
.1
0-4
167
165
7,963
210,817
2%
2%
5%
6%
5-17
479 7%
465 7%
26,007 16%
588,675 17%
18-24
169
159
15,334
330,112
25-49
1,000 15%
3%
2%
1,055 16%
9%
55,425 34%
9% 1,182,009 34%
50-64
796 12%
836 12%
35,625 22%
696,537 20%
65+
589
9%
826 12%
24,538 15%
489,248 14%
Total
3,200
3,506
164,892
3,497,398
Economics
Business Profile (2005)
Sector
% of Total
Establishments
Agriculture
Const. and Mining
Manufacturing
Trans. and Utilities
Trade
Finance, Ins. and
Real Estate
Services
Government
Top Five Grand List (2006)
Essex Meadows Inc
Lee Co
River Prop Inc
Macbeth Ventures LLC
Provident Bokum LLC
Net Grand List (2006)
Employment
2.2%
1.7%
10.6%
7.5%
9.9%
13.4%
3.3%
22.8%
4.8%
25.2%
7.2%
5.7%
43.7%
37.6%
2.7%
1.8%
Top Five Major Employers (2006)
Tower Laboratories
The Lee Company
Essex Meadows Inc
Retail Sales (2007)
All Outlets
Education
Aug. 11-Sept. 5
Sept. 29-O
ct. 17
2005-2006 School Year
(860) 767-7318
For more education data
please see:
http://www.state.ct.us/sde/
Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism.
This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
20 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Students per Computer
Elementary:
Middle:
Secondary:
Town Profiles January, 2010. Page 1
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
Town
3.0
2.0
2.0
State
4.0
3.0
3.2
www.cerc.com
% of
Net
2.4%
0.5%
0.3%
0.2%
0.2%
Essex Credit Corporation
Essex Elementary
Town
$541,176,836
State
$136,936,194,241
Connecticut Mastery Test Percent Above Goal
Grade 4
Grade 6
Town State
Town State
71
53
71
60
Reading
Math
64
57
64
61
Writing
71
63
63
61
State
894
566,606
Most public school students through grade 6 attend Essex School
District, which has 543 students. Students then go to Regional
School District 4, which has 862 Students.
For tickets and information call
or visit us on line at www.ivorytonplayhouse.org
With support from
Town
Total Town School Enrollment
Amount
$21,713,000
$4,597,200
$2,574,000
$2,230,500
$2,149,200
$921,696,900
Average Class Size
Grade K 15.0 Grade 2 18.0
Grade 5 18.0 Grade 7 20.0
High School 14.4
Grade 8
Town State
87
65
77
56
86
61
Average SAT Score
Verbal
Math
Town
State
525
524
508
508
No representation or warranties, expressed or implied, are
given regarding the accuracy of this information.
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 21
What to See
Connecticut River Properties Team
Art Galleries in Essex
Eclectic Essex
Left Bank Gallery, Essex
1-3 North Main Street, Unit 10
860-581-4577
eclecticessex@ymail.com
Artists are on consignment and rotate every 120 days.
Summer Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (except
event Thursdays); Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday,
noon to 6 p.m. until Labor Day weekend
10 Main Street
860-767-0449
www.leftbankgalleryessex.com
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.
Closed Tuesday.
Fin & Feather: Works by LBGE Artists Patrice Nelson & Kat Murphy:
Runs during June.
Recent Works by Larry Horowitz: Runs during July.
Ooooooooh, you’re going to love Peonies!
“Opening the door to life on the Shoreline”
 FINE RESALE FOR WOMEN 
Linda Freedman Kathy Shannehan Chip Frost
The Essex Art Association
10 North Main Street
860-767-8996
www.essexartassociation.org
Hours: Daily, 1 to 5 p.m. Closed Tuesday.
Locally Grown: Annual Elected Artist Members’ Show: Opening
Reception: Friday, June 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. Runs June 4 to
June 26.
Anything Goes: Open Art Show: Artists’ Reception: Friday, July
2 from 6 to 8 p.m. Runs July 2 to July 24.
Sensual: Annual Summer Juried Show: Opening Reception:
Friday, July 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. Runs July 30 to Aug. 21
Keep It Simple: Community Open Art Show: Opening
Reception: Friday, Aug. 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. Runs Aug. 27 to Sept. 18.
CTRiverProperties.com
90 Main Street, No. 105 | Centerbrook, CT 06409
860.581.4518 | www.peoniescouture.com
Open Tues -Peonies
Sat. 10-5
p.m.,open
Thurs. 5-7 p.m.
is now
Designer Consignment Clothing & Accessories
35 Main Street • Essex, CT 06426 • 860-767-5390 x12
ctriverproperties@pagetaft.com
Venice at Dusk, photograph by Michael Schley, exhibited at Left Bank Gallery Essex
Now Open for the Season
PETER H. CHARBONNIER
860.526.1780
ESQ, LLC
97 MAIN ST. • CHESTER
DIVE INTO HISTORY
Looking forward to addressing your
concerns in the following areas of law …
REAL ESTATE
at the Connecticut River Museum
Refinance
Purchase • Sale
Reverse Mortgage
Landlord/Tenant
SMALL BUSINESS
Formation • Consulting
Purchase • Sale
Corporation • LLC
WILLS & TRUSTS
Probate Administration
Living Wills • Estate Planning
DEBT WORKOUT
Short Sale • Foreclosure Avoidance
Bankruptcy and IRS negotiations
Summer Hours: Open Everyday 12-9 p.m.
Summer Hours
51 Main Street • Griswold Square, Essex
860-767-7805
22 • Essex Town Guide 2010
SERVING
THE
Discover New England’s Great River. 410 miles of water. 450 years of history.
COMMUNITY SINCE 1992
Connecticut River Museum
Visit us at www.lawforlocals.com
phcatty@aol.com
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
67 MAIN STREET 860-767-8269
ESSEX, CT 06426 www.ctrivermuseum.org
INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS
SCHOONER CRUISES
HERITAGE FESTIVALS
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 23
What to Do
Providing the Best
Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff
Spring
2010
____________________________________________________
Thursday, June 3
Try Chris’Wine Picks
of the Month &
Our CasualWine Tastings
Every Friday Night
First Thursday Book Club: Wild Nights by Joyce Carol Oates: 4 p.m.
Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.
essexlib.org.
Lecture: ‘The Human Genome’: 7 p.m. Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. For
info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
Friday, June 4
Opera at the Library: Götterdämmerung: 2 p.m. Essex Library, 33 W.
Ave. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
Centerbrook Architects Lecture Series: ‘A Medieval City in Modern
Times: A Photographic Study of Schaffhausen, Switzerland’: 7 p.m.
Essex Town Hall, 29 W. Ave. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.
essexlib.org.
Friday, June 4 to Sunday, June 6
Potted Garden Tour: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Self-guided tour departs from
the Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. The tour features container gardens
designed by professional landscapers, with 15 destinations and a number
of garden talks and special events. For info, visit www.essexct.com.
&
Wines, Liquors, Beers
Calendar of Essex Events
Let Us Help Calculate What You Need For Your Party
Case discounts apply on wine whether all the same or mixed
The Burning of the Ships Parade takes place
each May. Photo by Adam Coppola
Free Home Delivery &
Summer Delivery to
Local Marinas
Saturday, June 5
Environmental Fest: 1 to 4 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67
Main St. Presentations on eco-gardening, environmentally friendly
boating, clean energy, music, guided river paddle, and more. For info,
call 860-767-8269 or visit www.ctrivermuseum.org.
11 Main Street • Essex
860.767.8979
Join us on
Essex Rotary Club Shad Bake & Family Day: Dinner: 4:30 to 7 p.m.;
Live Music: 5 to 8 p.m. Essex Elementary School Grounds, Centerbrook.
Cost: $20 ($80 per family). For info, visit www.essexrotary.com.
Continued on page 26
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24 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Shore Publishing
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Essex Town Guide 2010 • 25
What to Do
Calendar of Essex Events
Dance to the Sounds of The Big Band Led by Bob Hughes: 7:30 to
10:30 p.m. Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main St. Admission: $25
(includes hors d’oeuvres and two drinks). Benefits a scholarship fund.
For tickets, call 860-767-8097.
Sunday, June 6
Family Fun Walk, Picnic, and Concert: 4 to 6 p.m. Cross Lots Preserve.
Park at Town Hall, 29 W. Ave. For info, visit www.essexlandtrust.org.
Tuesday, June 8
Lecture and Magic Lantern Show: ‘Churchill in America, Seen
Through the Boston Visits’: 7 p.m. Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. For info,
call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
Saturday, June 12
Symphony 2010 in the Meadows: Eastern Connecticut Symphony
Orchestra: 5:30 p.m. Hayden’s Point, Essex. Cost: $125. Benefits
High Hopes Therapeutic Riding. For info, call 860-434-1974 or visit
www.highhopestr.org.
Thursday, June 17
Author Talk with Richard Conniff: Swimming with Piranhas at
Feeding Time: My Life Doing Dumb Stuff with Animals: 7 p.m. Essex
Library, 33 W. Ave. For info, visit www.essexlib.org.
Saturday, June 19
Fine Art Photography II: Workshop for Advanced Photographers:
10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. For info, visit
www.essexlib.org.
Summer 2010
____________________________________________________
Thursday, June 24
Author Talk with Dean Jacques: Chivalry, Now: 7 p.m. Essex Library,
33 W. Ave. For info, visit www.essexlib.org.
Friday, June 25 to Sunday, June 27
HotSteamedJazzFestival:EssexSteamTrain,1RailroadAve.Forinfo,visit
www.hotsteamedjazz.com.
Sunday, June 27
Touch-a-Truck ‘Fun’ Raiser: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Essex Fire Station.
Tickets: $5 ($15 per family). For info, call 860-767-1560.
Hike Fern Ledge: 2 p.m. Fern Ledge Preserve. Park behind left side of
the Shoreline Clinic on Rte. 153. For info, visit www.essexlandtrust.org.
Sunday, July 4
Fourth of July Parade: 10 a.m. Steps off from the Piano Factory in
Ivoryton. For info, call 860-767-4340, ext. 110.
Saturday, July 10
Sunday, Sept. 26
Mahogany Memories Antique & Classic Boat Show: 8 a.m.
Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St. Free. For info, call 860-7678269 or visit www.ctrivermuseum.org.
Essex Family Day: Grove Street Park. For info, call 860-767-4340,
ext. 110.
Thursday, July 15
Preschool Story Hour Registration (Fall Session): 10 a.m. Essex Library,
33 W. Ave. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
Family Walk and Picnic: 5 p.m. Great Meadows. Park at Essex Boat
Club. For info, visit www.essexlandtrust.org.
Saturday, Aug. 7
Essex Lions Club Lobster Bake: 5 p.m. For info, visit
www.essexlionsclub.com.
Essex Sidewalk Sale: Essex Village. For info, call 860-767-4340.
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Saturday, Oct. 23
Thursday, Aug. 19
Canoe/Kayak Around Thatchbed Island: 5 p.m. Launch from
the shoreline access at the foot of Main St. For info, visit www.
essexlandtrust.org.
Saturday, Aug 21
18th Annual Arts and Crafts Fair: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. First Baptist
Church of Essex, 10 Prospect St. For info, call 860-434-0751.
Fall 2010
____________________________________________________
77 MAIN STREET, ESSEX CT
Taste of the Valley: Benefits Tri-Town Youth Services. Tickets available
at Celebrations or Tri-Town Youth Services in Deep River. For info,
visit www.tasteofthevalley.blogspot.com.
Saturday, Sept. 18
The Revolution Comes to Essex: Fifth Connecticut Regiment
Re-enactors: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meadow, Pratt House. For info, call
860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
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26 • Essex Town Guide 2010
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Saturday, Oct. 30
Ivoryton Village Pumpkin Festival: 5 to 8 p.m. Ivoryton Green. For
info, call 860-767-4340, ext. 110.
Sunday, Oct. 31
Halloween Parade: 6 p.m. Downtown Essex. For info, call 860-7674340.
Sunday, Nov. 14
‘Loop Year: 365 Days on the Trail’: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 W. Ave.
For info, visit www.essexlandtrust.org.
Sunday, Nov. 28
Trees in the Rigging: 4:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main
St. For info, call 860-767-4340.
Date TBD
Dogs on the Dock Parade and Competition: Connecticut River
Museum, 67 Main St. Free. For info, call 860-767-8269 or visit
www.ctrivermuseum.org.
Rotary Club of Essex’s Fourth Annual Wine Tasting Party: Connecticut
River Museum, 67 Main St. For info, visit www.essexrotary.com.
Paul & Lisa Program XTreme Trees: For info, visit www.paulandlisa.org.
Child & Family Agency’s CFA Golf Tournament: For info, visit
www.cfapress.org.
Winter
2011
____________________________________________________
Thursday, Sept. 24
RiverQuest Swallow Cruise: 5 p.m. Boat departs from the Steamboat Dock.
Bring snacks and beverages. Cost: $35. To register, call 860-767-9763.
th
(860) 767-0763
Walk Windswept Ridge: Family Walk: 10 a.m. Windswept Ridge
Preserve. Park at the end of Windemere Way, Ivoryton.
Monday, Sept. 20
Saturday, Sept. 25
860.767.9029
125 Westbrook Rd.,
Essex CT 06426
Sunday, Oct. 17
Volunteer Appreciation Day: 4 to 6 p.m. Pettipaug Yacht Club. For
Essex Land Trust volunteers. For info, call 860-767-3231.
Friday, Sept. 10
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Canoe/Kayak North Cove and Falls River: 4 p.m. Park at the shore
access at the end of Bushnell St. For info, visit www.essexlandtrust.org.
Family Maritime Festival: Festival: 1 to 4 p.m.; Concert: 5 to 7 p.m.
Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Free. For info, call
860-767-8269 or visit www.ctrivermuseum.org.
Indian History of the Lower Connecticut Valley: 7 p.m. Town Hall.
For info, visit www.essexlandtrust.org.
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Monday, Sept. 27
40 Annual International Coastal Cleanup: 9 a.m. to noon. Meet at the
parkinglotatTownHall,29W.Ave.Forinfo,visitwww.essexlandtrust.org.
Shore Publishing
Thursday, Jan. 20
‘Land Trusts and the Connecticut Legislature’: 7 p.m. Essex Library,
33 W. Ave. For info, visit www.essexlandtrust.org.
Monday, Jan. 24
Preschool Story Hour Registration (Winter/Spring Session): 10
a.m. Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit
www.essexlib.org.
Continued on page 28
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 27
What to Do
Date TBD
Essex Ed Groundhog Day Parade: February. For info, visit www.
essexct.gov.
Annual Tag Sale & Spring Fashion Show: Child & Family Agency:
March. For info, visit www.cfapress.org.
Spring 2011
____________________________________________________
Saturday, April 23
Easter Egg Hunt: Grove Street Park. For info, call 860-767-4340, ext. 110.
Monday, May 30
Memorial Day Parade: 8:45 a.m. For info, call 860-767-4348.
Date TBD
April Fools’ 5K Run/Walk & Backwards Mile: Literacy Volunteers
Valley Shore: April. For info, visit www.vsliteracy.org.
Burning of the Ships Parade: May. For info, call 860-767-4348.
Essex Garden Club May Market: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Grove Street Park.
May. For info, call 860-767-4348.
Ongoing Events
Sail the Historic Schooner Mary E.: Afternoon Cruise: 1:30 and
3:30 p.m.; Sunset Cruise: 6 p.m. Daily except for Wednesday. Sails
out of Connecticut River Museum Steamboat Wharf, 67 Main St.
Afternoon: $20; Sunset: $30. Bring a picnic supper. Runs mid-
May through summer. For info, call 860-767-8269 or visit www.
schoonermarye.com.
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Essex Farmers’ Market: Every Friday. 3 to 6 p.m. Runs June 19
through October. For info, call 860-654-4758.
Summer Concert Series: Essex Park and Recreation: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesdays. Venue alternates each week between Main Street Park
in Essex and the Ivoryton Green. Free. For info, call 860-767-4340,
ext. 110.
June 30: Middletown Symphonic Band; Main Street Park
July 7: Amalgamated Muck; Ivoryton Green
July 14: Long Island Sound; Main Street Park
July 21: Pete & Wayne; Ivoryton Green
July 28: Blues on the Rocks; Main StreetPark
Aug. 4: Brad & Brian; Ivoryton Green
Aug. 11: Shiny Lapels; Main Street Park
Aug. 18: The Corbys; Ivoryton Green
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Continued on page 30
• Qualified, experienced instructors
• 3 full size studios and new practice studio for private lessons
• One-way windows in all studios for parents to observe classes
• Sprung dance floors to reduce stress and help prevent injury
• Annual recital, Holiday performance and competition groups
• Over 15 years of providing quality dance instruction to boys and girls ages 3 & up
Celebrating
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28 • Essex Town Guide 2010
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Ivoryton Playhouse: 103 Main St. For info, call 860-767-7318 or visit
www.ivorytonplayhouse.org.
Arsenic and Old Lace: Runs June 9 through June 27.
The Buddy Holly Story: Runs July 7 through Aug. 1.
Finian’s Rainbow: Runs Aug. 11 through Sept. 5.
Driving Miss Daisy: Runs Sept. 29 through Oct. 17.
I can still hear the people clapping…
I wore my mommy’s make-up…
My daddy gave me flowers…
I loved being in my dance recital!
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5 Main Street • Centerbrook, CT 06409
ph: (860) 767-8448 fax: (860) 767-2444
• Furnishings for Home & Boat
Calendar of Essex Events
Shore Publishing
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 29
What to Do
The Textile Art of Nel Udo: Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. Runs through
July. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
Summer Film Series: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays. Essex Library, 33 W. Ave.
Runs July 22 and 29; Aug. 5, 12, and 19. For info, call 860-767-1560
or visit www.essexlib.org.
Sleepy Time Stories: 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Thursdays. Connecticut River
Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Runs during July and August. For info,
call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
21st Annual Summer Concert Series: Fife and Drum Music: 7:30 to
8:30 p.m. Tuesdays. The Museum of Fife & Drum, 62 N. Main St.,
Ivoryton. Free. Runs during July and August. Bring a lawn chair. Hot
dogs and hamburgers available. For info, call 203-481-4695.
Stories and Music for Ones and Twos: 10 a.m. Fridays. Essex Library,
33 W. Ave. Runs during the school year. For info, call 860-767-1560
or visit www.essexlib.org.
Art by Duane Perrault: Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. Runs during
September. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
Calendar of Essex Events
CT Audubon Eagle-Viewing Boat Tours: Reservations required.
Cost: $40. Runs during February and March. For info, call 860-7670660 or visit www.ctaudubon.org.
Frostbite Yacht Club Races: For info, contact 860-526-8858 or
Scott.k.baker@gmail.com.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat: 1 Railroad Ave. For info, call 860767-0103 or visit www.essexsteamtrain.com.
Essex Clipper Dinner Train: Ongoing.
Essex Steam Train’s Eagle Flyer: Runs during February.
Connecticut River Museum: 67 Main St., Essex. For info, call 860767-8269 or visit www.ctrivermuseum.org.
Holiday Train Show: Begins in January.
The Sculpture Mile at Essex: Main St. For info, call 860-767-2624 or
visit www.hollycroft.org.
Shore Publishing posts a searchable calendar of events for
Essex and surrounding towns, updated daily on our website,
www.zip06.com (click on Essex).
Swallow Spectacle Cruise: Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Runs Sept. 8 through October. Bring a picnic supper, beverages, and
binoculars. Cost: $40. For info, visit www.ecotravel.ctaudubon.org.
Beginning Photography with Steve Nadler: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays.
Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. Runs Sept. 9 and 23; Oct. 7 and 21. For
info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
The Art of Rick Silberberg: Essex Library, 33 W. Ave. Runs during
October. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit www.essexlib.org.
Essex Winter Series: 3 p.m. Valley Regional High School Auditorium,
Kelsy Hill Rd., Deep River. Series runs January through March.
Tickets: $25 ($6 for children and students, $20 for seniors). For info,
visit www.essexwinterseries.com.
Jan. 9: Tokyo String Quartet with Pianist Mihae Lee
Jan. 30: Soprano Dawn Upshaw with Pianist Gilbert Kalish
photo by Jess Smith
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30 • Essex Town Guide 2010
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We welcome conversations with good people
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860.347.0025 • www.MiddlesexCountyCF.org
Shore Publishing
Shore Publishing
Essex Town Guide 2010 • 31
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32 • Essex Town Guide 2010
Shore Publishing