On Thursday, October 5th at 1:00pm, the 350th Anniversary Steering Committee and the Southbury Library welcome naturist and forestry chemist, Peter Rzasa, for the ninth History Talk. Mr. Rzasa will uncover the old Woodbury Path, a trade route in Colonial times that led inland, up from the ports of the Long Island Sound, and played a vital role in allowing trade and industry to flourish in Southbury and surrounding towns and helped open the interior of Connecticut to Colonial life.
Over time, the Path met its demise as new turnpikes steered farmers to the larger ice-free ports in New Haven and Bridgeport severely impacting the importance of the Derby seaport. More modern roads replaced the old Woodbury Path, but several original sections still exist. This program will review the colorful history of the Woodbury Path, its effect on early commerce and its eventual demise.
Peter Rzasa earned his B.S. degree in Forest Chemistry from S.U.N.Y. College of Environmental Science and, after retiring, has provided nature-based programs to nature centers and land trusts. His goal is to encourage people, especially children, to look more closely at our natural and historical world and to become more aware of their hidden wonders.
History Talks are a part of a year-long series of events and activities celebrating 350 years of community, culture and history (1673-2023), aimed at highlighting the past and progress of the one and only Southbury. Like all Southbury Public Library programs, the talks are free with registration and open to anyone regardless of town of residency. It will take place in the Kingsley Room at the Southbury Library at 100 Poverty Road at 1:00pm. Space is limited, so register at www.southburylibrary.org/event/old-woodbury-path.
For more information about this program, please email Rebecca at rrandall@biblio.org or call the reference desk at 203-262-0626 ext 130. To learn more about the 350th Anniversary visit: www.southbury-ct.org/350.