Heirloom Apples: A Family-Friendly Workshop During the #HandsonHistory Exhibition at Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center, October 13
Peter Montgomery is on a mission to save Connecticut apples. On Sunday, October 13, 2019, he will lead a Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center (KTM&HC) workshop about this quintessential American fruit as part of the #HandsOnHistory, Living Off the Land exhibition. The exhibition demonstrates how Ridgefielders of yesteryear sustained themselves and their families from the 18th through early-20th centuries.
The owner of Montgomery Gardens Heirloom Apples & Orchards in Warren, Connecticut, Mr. Montgomery is dedicated to helping property owners and farmers revive existing heirloom fruit trees and plant “new” heirloom varieties. According to Mr. Montgomery, hundreds of original ancient apple trees still exist in the state. While many might be in rough shape, with a bit of pruning and TLC, they can be restored. Through this hands-on activity (including apple tasting), he will enlighten visitors about the historical importance of apples to Ridgefield families and businesses, as well as their significance for our current and future food system.
“We’re excited to have Peter Montgomery launch our #HOH family workshops starting Sunday, October 13,” said Catherine Prescott, assistant museum director and lead curator of the #HandsOnHistory Living Off the Land exhibition. “Subsistence farmers of yesteryear relied on apples for everything from dessert to drinks. With a renewed interest in local food and craft cider, heirloom apples are making a comeback.”
The #HandsonHistory Living Off the Land exhibition is open Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. through October 27. Mr. Montgomery’s talk, also 1 to 4 p.m., is the first Sunday family workshop beginning October 13. For additional information about the full exhibit, including other workshops, click here.
School and youth groups may schedule private guided tours of the exhibition Monday through Friday through October 25 by calling the Museum office at 203 438-5485 or emailing education@keelertavernmuseum.org.
KTM&HC tells 300 years of the town’s—and nation’s—history through the lives of its past residents. The 4-acre historic site, including the Keeler Tavern Museum, Cass Gilbert-designed Garden House, Carriage Barn and Gardens, is open for visitors Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Additional information about the site, including rental of the Cass Gilbert-designed Garden House and Walled Garden for private events, can be found at keelertavernmuseum.org or Facebook.com/KeelerTavernMuseum. Follow KTM&HC on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.