On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the Simsbury Historical Society will be transformed into a vibrant center of colonial era activities during Historic Trades of the Revolution Day. Skilled trades and crafts people dressed in period attire will interact with visitors and use antique and reproduction tools to demonstrate how colonists produced goods and materials immediately before, during, and after the American Revolutionary War.
The circa 1771 Phelps Tavern and homestead will depict life in the late 1700s. To create an immersive experience for visitors, actors portraying Phelps family members living at that time will perform scenes from everyday life. Tours are included with admission.
- Morning tour times – 10:30 | 11:00 | 11:30
- Afternoon tour times – 12:30 | 1:00 | 1:30 | 2:00
Trades and crafts to be demonstrated include blacksmithing, chair making, chair caning, weaving, spinning, flax spinning, hand quilting, basket weaving, and cooperage.
- Blacksmithing will take place in the new, reproduction Griswold and Ensign Blacksmith Shop.
- The circa 1795 Hendrick Cottage will serve as a textile center; a barn loom dating from the early 1800s and antique spinning wheels as well as modern looms and spinning wheels will be in use.
- The Phelps Barn will house chair, woodworking, and historic preservation experts who will demonstrate and discuss hand tools; production methods commonly used during colonial times, and 18th century window sash restoration.
- The Meeting House will feature an antique quilt exhibition and hand quilting demonstrations. Morning and afternoon guest speakers will be announced.
- Assorted antiques and items will be for sale in a peddler’s market setting.
Hours
Saturday, May 3, 2025, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Rain or shine.
Location and Parking
The Simsbury Historical Society is located at 800 Hopmeadow Street in the Simsbury Center Historic District. Parking is available in the main lot at 10 Phelps Lane. Additional free parking is available in nearby municipal lots.
Accessibility
Please note, due to its age and historic nature, the Phelps Tavern is not accessible by wheelchair, walker, or stroller. Buildings on our 2+ acre site are situated along gravel, stone, and grass paths.
Admission
Historic Trades of the Revolution Day is appropriate for all age groups.
General Admission is $10 per adult or $20 per household.
Simsbury Historical Society Member Admission is $5 per adult or $10 per household.
Admission fees will be collected upon entry and may be paid in cash or by credit/debit card.
Please email info@simsburyhistory.org or call 860-658-2500 with any questions.