Special Events
Christmas Open House
In December, The Cromwell Historical Society opens its doors in celebration of Christmas with an annual Christmas Open House. Each year, nine rooms of the Stevens-Frisbie House are decorated according to a theme chosen for that specific year. Past themes have included Christmas Carols, Books and international traditions as well and magical and war-time observances. Community organizations such as the Friends of the Cromwell Belden Library and the Cromwell High School History Club often participate in the decorating. Complimentary refreshments, prepared by our members, are served in the Dining Room and the Sun Porch gift shop offers special gifts of seasonal and local interest.
May Day Tea
On the Sunday closest to May Day, friends who gather at the Stevens-Frisbie House celebrate the arrival of gentler weather at the Annual May Day Tea. Hosted by Juleps & Viragoes, the living history department of the Historical Society, in mid-nineteenth-century attire, the Tea begins at 2 p.m. and ends at 5 p.m., during which tea and a light repast may be had. Through out the afternoon, the traditional May-pole Dance bedecks the flagpole in the North Lawn with the fluttering colours of Spring – participants need enthusiasm only, as the dance itself is engagingly simple! Croquet on the South Lawn and Graces on the Front provide leisurely diversions while live music fills the house.
Ball of the Rebellion
On the first Saturday in April*, Juleps & Viragoes, the living history department of the Cromwell Historical Society, hosts the Ball of the Rebellion – a Civil War era ball. The evening features period food, live music and, of course, dancing. Period attire is encouraged and admired, but formal attire of the twenty-first century is also welcome. Each ball is specifically themed to reflect the current year in the Civil War reenacting cycle. ( 1861-1865 = 2011-2015 etc.) This is a ticketed event with prices ranging from $20.00 for Historical Society members to $30.00 general admission at the door.
*On the rare occasion that the 1st Saturday is Easter, this event will be held on the 2nd Saturday in April.
Hallowed Ground Walking Tours
Each fall, members of the Cromwell Historical Society present a thematic walking tour of Hillside Cemetery in period clothing. This event is hosted by the Cromwell Hillside Cemetery Association.
Past themes have included Civil War, World War One, and Cromwell's founding generation. Similar tours are given to the Cromwell High School History Club twice a year in the cemetery and along Main Street and in the Riverport.