Kay Ables, the renowned historian and curator, has been selected as the recipient of this year’s Thrown Stone New Connections Award. The New Connections Awards were envisioned to recognize individuals who exemplify Thrown Stone’s values and our mission to move, connect, and challenge all who join the conversation. Each year, the award focuses on a distinct theme that harmonizes with Thrown Stone’s season. In 2023, that theme is Bringing Our History to Life. Kay Ables has demonstrated exceptional dedication and passion in preserving and sharing Ridgefield’s rich historical heritage.
Through extensive research and tireless efforts, Kay has not only brought our history to life — she put it into context, helping generations of Ridgefield residents understand our rich heritage and their place in it. As town historian, she curated captivating exhibits, organized engaging events, and perhaps most significantly, helped save the David Scott House, now the headquarters of the Ridgefield Historical Society. Her deep knowledge and love for Ridgefield’s past have enriched our community beyond measure.
About Kay Ables
While raising two children, daughter Susan, and son David, Kay found time for Board appointments of what was then known as the Lounsbury Community Center and served as President of the Ridgefield Woman’s Club. She worked closely with Ridgefield’s inaugural town historian Dick Venus and was appointed to the role upon Dick’s passing in 2006. Kay has a strong interest in the historical records documenting Ridgefield’s past and counts as one of her many accomplishments being part of the Keeler Tavern team that identified over five thousand glass plate negatives of Ridgefield’s former leaders and early residents.
Opening Night Honors
A lifetime of service and advocacy for the preservation of Ridgefield’s rich history has made Kay a perfect candidate for Thrown Stone’s New Connections Award. To honor Kay and her remarkable contributions, she will be presented with the award in a special ceremony following the opening night performance of the world premiere of Seven Cousins for a Horse by Tammy Ryan, a new play commissioned by Thrown Stone about Ammi Phillips, the Connecticut-born portrait painter known as the most prolific folk artist in American History. The award will be presented by WSHU reporter Davis Dunavin.
Please join us Thrown Stone July 14th to raise a glass to her accomplishments. The award presentation will take place immediately after the performance, and all ticket holders are invited to attend. Sparkling wine and dessert will be served courtesy of Cellar XV and Stacey’s Totally Baked.