Your guide to the heart of Litchfield County:
Discover local stories, hidden gems, and must-know events.

Civil War Letters Bring Romance to Goshen Stage

Now the Magic Begins

By Jack Sheedy

Photographs by Ryan Lavine

Goshen resident Kathleen Kelly learned in 2023 about a trove of Civil War love letters. Her theatrical instinct told her the story cried out for the stage.

“Civil War love letters. You can say that in a nail salon, and heads will turn,” she says.

Kelly is an actor, producer, and director. She inquired at the Goshen Library about a book based on the letters. Cinzi Lavin, a noted Litchfield County novelist, musician, and playwright, overheard her.

Lavin recalls that she said, “I can probably help you with that.”

Lavin had read the late Ernest B. Barker’s 2002 book Fred and Jennie: A Civil War Love Story, which tells of the letters that led to a 35-year marriage between Sergeant Major Frederick Lucas and Sarah Jane “Jennie” Wadhams, both of Goshen.

Lavin and Kelly teamed up, and in 2024, Lavin wrote A Goodnight Kiss, a two-act play slated to be mounted by the Goshen Players in June. Kelly will produce and direct.

“There are two narrators, one white and one black,” Kelly says. “They’ll be working the audience throughout.”

Characters also include Fred, Jennie, and two gossiping women who help establish the mood of Goshen in the 1860s. Jennie’s father, John Marsh Wadhams—who first opposed the marriage—also makes an appearance, as does Fred’s war buddy, Thomas Huxley.

The future lovers met in 1862, when Fred was being mustered into the Union Army at Litchfield Green. Jennie gave him a pocket-sized Bible.

“I’m sure he thought, ‘This was an angel, giving me this,’” Kelly says.

Barker was descended from both the Wadhams and Lucas families. When the Wadhams homestead was sold in 1974, letters from Fred to Jennie were found and entrusted to him.

Four years later, Barker moved with his family to a former Lucas family homestead in Goshen. There, in a shoebox, were the letters from Jennie to Fred. Barker’s book contains both sides of the correspondence.

The letters now reside at the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History in Hartford.

In the correspondence, Fred describes the horror of battle, including carnage at Cold Harbor, Va., in 1864: “I have seen men fall by my side, shot & dead at once.… This is war without romance. It is the reality of the picture.”

Far from the battlefields, Jennie writes to Fred about more innocent activities: gathering flowers in the woods, and having her photograph taken.

They married in 1867. Fred became a respected Goshen merchant and Connecticut General Assemblyman. Weakened by war wounds, he died in 1902. Jennie taught school in New Britain and died in 1909.

Anticipating opening night, Kelly says, “Now the magic begins.”

Lavin predicts, “This will be the historic event of the year.”

A Goodnight Kiss: Goshen’s Civil War Love Story will be presented at Goshen Old Town Hall, 2 North St., June 6 and 7 at 8 p.m., with a 3 p.m. matinee followed by a panel discussion June 8. For ticket information, call 860-491-9988.

—goshenplayers.org.

Trade Secrets, Finding the Roots of a Renowned Garden Event

Photos by Anne Day

By Cynthia Hochswender

Trade Secrets draws thousands of plant enthusiasts from all over America each year for curated tours of Litchfield and Dutchess County gardens, and a massive Rare Plant and Garden Antiques Sale.

But 25 years ago, when it was founded by New York City designer Bunny Williams, it was a tiny sale held on the Falls Village estate where Williams and husband John Rosselli make their home.

“It’s hard to believe that 25 years have flown by since the first Trade Secrets was held on our property, the brainchild of myself and Naomi Blumenthal,” Williams recalls. “We had extra plants we decided to sell; and I suggested that we ask some antique dealer friends to join. The sales, if there were any, would benefit Women’s Support Services (now called Project SAGE).

“Every year now from November to May, “with the help of Deborah Munson and countless helpers, we work to create an event that will be so organized it will be a pleasure for all who attend, as well as for the vendors who work so hard to bring their merchandise and set up their booths.”

About 600 people attended Trade Secrets in 2001; more than 2,000 turned out for the 2025 sale, held for the third time at the racetrack at Lime Rock Park. In 2001, there were 30 vendors at the Rare Plant and Garden Antiques sale. This year there will be close to 50. 

Garden enthusiasts travel each year from as far away as California and Texas to shop the tents featuring garden design items from New England artisans and famed design retailers. The plants are also, as the name suggests, usually rare variations on beloved plants, with some vendors specializing in a specific bloom such as peonies or daffodils. 

The sale has changed locations over the years and is now held at the Lime Rock Park racetrack, on Sunday (when there is no racing); the garden tours are Saturday. 

One tent at the Sunday sale this year will be an information center about Project SAGE, a nonprofit domestic violence agency that serves several Litchfield County towns. The services that the organization offers are wide ranging, with everything from a 24-hour crisis hotline to legal advocacy and help with finding housing. The community in towns served by SAGE in Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts steps up, serving on the board, offering support to clients, and literally rolling up their sleeves each year to plan and execute Trade Secrets.  

“Months of work happen before the event weekend,” Williams says. “Organizing vendors, tents, catering, underwriting. On the days of the actual events, hundreds volunteer to host gardens, and to coordinate and run the many aspects of the sale. It is this dedication by the whole community working together that has made Trade Secrets such a success. We are also grateful to Lime Rock Park for providing us with such a perfect location.”

At the opening night cocktail party this year, Trade Secrets will honor Williams along with founding gardeners Blumenthal and Munson; as well as Judy Sheridan, former executive director of Women’s Support Services / Project SAGE. 

Saturday will be a return to the garden tour’s roots, with some of the earlier featured gardens among the five locations. Williams’ gardens will, as always, be included; returning this year are the garden of Douglas Thomas in Salisbury; the West Cornwall garden of Michael Trapp; and the Millbrook garden of Christopher Spitzmiller and Anthony Bellomo. Also featured this year are the gardens at Innisfree in Millbrook.—tradesecretsct.com.

Q&A with Margo Martindale

We talk to the esteemed actress about her storied career, and Litchfield County 

By Linda Tuccio-Koonz

“Poetically beautiful” is how Margo Martindale describes Dead Letters, the indie movie she’s just finished filming in New Mexico. She stars as a long-haul trucker grappling with loss.

But she shares her talents in lighter fare, too, voicing spiteful Mrs. Twit in a funny, animated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Twits, streaming on Netflix in October.

When not on set or doing voicework, Martindale retreats to Manhattan with her husband, or to their home in Kent. “I love it so much,” says the three-time Emmy winner.

How did you wind up in Kent?

We took our daughter to camp; I think in Lakeville … and came back through this little town called Kent. We stopped at The Villager and had breakfast, and we both said, ‘This feels like home.’ My husband said, ‘If we ever buy a house, I think this is where we’ll buy it.’ Years later, it was my birthday, and he said, ‘Let’s go look for our house for your birthday.’ 

Favorite spots?

Fife ’n Drum is like the hub of Kent. We always go there to see Elissa Potts; she fills us in on all the news of the town. I love Wilson’s; they have great sandwiches.

You’ve played wildly diverse roles, from park ranger Liz (Cocaine Bear, 2023), to crime matriarch Mags Bennett (Justified, 2010-2015). How did you discover acting? 

I discovered acting in high school in Jacksonville, Texas. The choir director said, ‘Why don’t you audition for the musical?’ He said, ‘You’ve got a loud voice’ because I was a cheerleader. I auditioned for Bye, Bye Birdie, got the lead, and the rest is history. I fell in love and never veered from that love of acting. 

In 2024, you nailed it as a disgruntled syrup farmer in The Sticky. How was that? 

I loved the people I worked with. It was a very Fargo-esque comedy drama, a joy from beginning to end. Everything you saw me do, I mostly did …I didn’t saw down  a tree, but I did stand in the snow with a chainsaw.

What can you disclose about Dead Letters?

It’s about a woman who’s trying to hide from the sadness of her life, really. She’s always been a truck driver, but her daughter was murdered, and she drives, you know, to get away … It’s beautifully written, by David Drake. I don’t know when it will come out. Probably a year.

How about The Twits?

Voiceover is tough. It’s wildly fun, but tiring, because the whole thing is your voice, so it takes that much more push. We did it over two years; I was in the studio maybe 20 times. David Byrne wrote all the music, so that was exciting. 

If Margot of today could talk to 20-year-old Margot, what advice would she give?

You’re doing it right, take the next job, take the next job. This is the way I did it. I just took what was ahead of me to keep going and keep at it. I was never worried that I wouldn’t succeed. Being prepared is the most important thing.

What are you most proud of? What matters most?

My family: my daughter, Maggie, and my husband, Bill. And all of our friends.

For 30 years, Denscot Pool & Spa has perfected the art of turning ordinary backyards into luxurious oases. Rooted in passion for family and community, the mission is simple yet profound: to “create enjoyable lifestyles,” one property at a time. The vision, embodied by Scott and Heather Meeker, the couple behind Denscot, resonates through every custom installation and service they provide.

Having established itself as a premier contractor for Litchfield and Dutchess counties, Denscot specializes in inground gunite and fiberglass pools, and spas. Heather fondly recalls the early days when their young family gathered around the pool for simple pleasures and celebrations.

“We created a lifestyle by the pool that we wanted to share with others,” she reflects.
What began as a small service-oriented business has flourished into an award-winning company, known for impeccable design, expert installation, and personalized customer care.

Scott’s journey into the industry, however, began long before Denscot’s inception. As a teenager working for a local pool company, Scott quickly discovered a natural aptitude for the trade. After completing his bachelor’s degree, he transitioned to a full-time position, establishing a successful service and maintenance department.

In 1994, with Heather’s support, Scott launched Denscot Pool & Landscape Services LLC, laying the foundation for their family-run business. They worked tirelessly to provide top-tier service, maintenance, and renovations, eventually expanding into custom design and installation.

As Denscot’s reputation grew, so did its vision. By 2000, the company was designing and installing luxury gunite pools. Since then, technological advancements and evolving customer tastes have led to stunning, modern pools that blend seamlessly with their surroundings, enhancing both aesthetic and overall experience.

Modern innovative design elements push boundaries, from elegant bubblers and built-in seating, to mesmerizing LED lights and automatic covers that provide safety, thermal retention,  and reduced maintenance.
“It’s a game-changer for pool owners,” Scott explains. “The convenience and functionality these covers provide have made them an essential element in today’s pool designs.”

Smart automation has revolutionized pool ownership, making it easier than ever to control temperature, lighting, and sanitization—all from mobile devices. This has transformed how people interact with their pools, offering unprecedented convenience and ensuring that maintenance is virtually effortless.

Denscot’s reputation for excellence is underscored by numerous industry awards, including Gold, Silver, and Bronze honors for innovative designs, construction, and renovation and retail. The work epitomizes a commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and technological advancements. As a member of the Northeast Spa and Pool Association (NESPA) and the Connecticut Spa and Pool Association (CONSPA), Scott continues to play an active role in shaping the future of design.

Now, with their children—Allie, Sarah, Austin, and Owen—integrated into the business, Denscot has evolved into a second-generation family company. The Meekers remain committed to providing clients with the highest level of customer care and craftsmanship.

“We’re a pool company, a high-end pool company,” they reflect, “but it’s so much more than that. It’s about creating a lifestyle.”

From locations in New Preston and Goshen, Denscot continues to redefine pool design, fusing beauty, functionality, and effortless luxury transforming each backyard into a sanctuary—one that will be cherished by generations. —denscotpools.com

By Clementina Verge

Maurice Steinberg Presents The Final Baton
A Conductor’s Farewell to the Podium

By Clementina Verge

For nearly 17 years, Maurice Steinberg led the Torrington Symphony Orchestra with an unwavering commitment to musical excellence and a profound appreciation for every note. Contemplating his final performance in May at the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre, Steinberg reflects on a legacy that spanned not just decades, but a community’s heart. 

“It’s been a total pleasure and a most fulfilling end to my career,” he notes, speaking of his deep connection with musicians, audiences, and countless students he nurtured throughout 45 years as a music teacher in the Litchfield Public School system and at Wamogo High School (now known as Lakeview High).
A longtime Litchfield resident, Steinberg’s journey with the orchestra began unexpectedly in November 2008. Stepping in for an ailing conductor, he quickly found his place, leading with a blend of musical theory insight, passion, and emotional intelligence. Under his direction, the orchestra’s repertoire grew to include everything from Baroque and Classical works to contemporary pop hits, captivating a wide range of audiences.

Harris Daigle, orchestra board of directors president and bassist, applauds Steinberg’s approach and “innovative leadership,” noting his unique ability to connect personally with each musician. 

“He went beyond just conducting,” Daigle says, “building a rapport and fostering a sense of unity within the ensemble.”

Though retiring from the podium, Steinberg plans to continue performing with the orchestra, while also enjoying more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren—torringtonsymphony.org

ASAP! Celebrates Possibilities

ASAP! Celebrates Possibilities will take place on Saturday, May 31, from 5:30 to 8 pm at Spring Hill Vineyards. This annual fundraiser is both a joyous celebration and a vital source of support for the arts-infused educational programming that ASAP! provides to Connecticut youth. By attending, you help create a world where young people’s passion for learning is ignited.

The evening will feature live performances by the ASAP! Youth Ensemble, original works shared on stage by top-selected Young Writers, and a Young Photographers exhibition.

Hosted by Ellen McCourt, the event will honor founder JoAnne Torti for her remarkable 26-year legacy, and welcome incoming executive director Ali Psomas. Join us to celebrate ASAP!’s rich history and exciting future.

Families are welcome. Attire: casual cocktail.

• 5:30 pm — Check-in, snacks, and open bar
• 6 pm — Performances
• 7 pm — Open bar, food, and exhibit

ASAP! extends its deepest thanks to presenting sponsor Simon & Schuster, visionary sponsor Elizabeth R. Rea, and event sponsors Peggy and Keith Anderson, Arbor Services of CT, Aspetuck Animal Hospital, Baker Law Firm, Coldwell Banker — Todd P. Sargent, Criana, Fineline Theater Arts, Gallagher Insurance, Litchfield Magazine, National Iron Bank, New Morning Market, The Pantry, Paramount Professional Roofing, Spring Hill Vineyards, Washington Montessori School, William Raveis Lifestyles Realty, and William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.

The Vital Role of Wetlands

Photo By: Theo Coulombe

Catherine Rawson is the executive director of Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy (NCLC) and a board member of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council. She holds degrees in environmental law and management from Vermont Law School and Yale. Previously, she served as an assistant attorney general for Connecticut. Since 2011, she has led NCLC’s regional growth, partnerships, and conservation efforts, securing accreditation and expanding financial reserves to $8.7 million. Her 20-plus years in environmental work include roles in law, nonprofit management, and education.

1: What exactly are wetlands, and why are they important? Wetlands are places where water covers the soil or is present near the surface for at least part of the year. They include marshes, swamps, vernal pools, flood plains, and coastal estuaries. Wetlands are essential to human and community health, and play a vital role in filtering pollutants and preventing floods. They are also amongst Earth’s most biologically diverse ecosystems, sustaining unique plants, amphibians, birds, and fish. In Connecticut, wetlands maintain the quality of our rivers, lakes, and drinking water, while serving as a natural defense against the impacts of climate change. 

2: How do wetlands contribute to water quality in Connecticut? Wetlands act as nature’s water filters, trapping pollutants and heavy metals before they reach our rivers, lakes, residential wells, and Long Island Sound. By improving water quality, wetlands support healthier ecosystems and drinking water sources. According to the New England Forestry Foundation, the water filtration services provided by the region’s forests, including wetlands, are valued at about $157 million annually. 

3: How do wetlands help mitigate climate change? Wetlands are powerful carbon sinks, meaning they store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and help regulate greenhouse gases. They also absorb and slow floodwaters, reducing storm damage. Coastal wetlands protect shorelines from rising sea levels and storm surges.

4: What types of wildlife rely on Connecticut’s wetlands? Many species depend on wetlands. Migratory birds like great blue herons and wood ducks use them for nesting and feeding. Amphibians such as frogs and salamanders breed in vernal pools, which are temporary wetlands that appear in the spring. Mammals like beavers and otters make wetlands their homes. In fact, Connecticut’s wetlands are often rich in biodiversity, with rare and endangered species you will not see anywhere else. You can look for these species, and many more, by exploring your local land trust’s public hiking trails, such as NCLC’s Wimisink Preserve in Sherman, which features an ADA-accessible boardwalk along a scenic wetland. 

5: Are wetlands in Connecticut at risk? Yes. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that Connecticut lost 74% of its original wetlands between the 1780s and 1980s. Development, pollution, and climate change continue to threaten our wetlands. While Connecticut has wetland protection laws, ongoing conservation efforts are essential.

6: How can residents help protect wetlands in their communities? People can help in many ways! Plant native vegetation to reduce erosion and protect water quality. Avoid using chemical fertilizers and pesticides, as this kind of runoff harms our native ecosystems. Support local conservation groups that protect wetlands, and advocate for strong environmental policies. But, most importantly, spread awareness—help others understand why wetlands are essential to Connecticut’s environment and future.—ctland.org

Dorothy Spears: A Life in Art

Dorothy Spears’ passion for art began in high school, when she first encountered Georgia O’Keeffe’s watercolors. She went on to study art and art history at Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, later continuing her education at Parsons School of Design in Paris and SUNY Purchase.

Her career in the art world has spanned decades, including work at the renowned Leo Castelli Gallery and as a writer for The New York Times, where she covered art and culture. Her writing has also appeared in The Art Newspaper, ARTnews, Vogue, and The Atlantic, among many other publications. She is the author of Art Tarts: An Indiscreet Tour of the 1980s Art World and the editor of Flight Patterns: A Century of Stories About Flying (Grove Press, 2009).

Spears has long championed the creative process, both as a journalist and as a painter. Having just had an exhibition at the Cornwall Library, she has fulfilled a lifelong dream: showcasing her own watercolor paintings, which reflect her deep connection to nature and personal narrative.

She lives in Warren with her husband, artist Alexis Rockman, where they share a studio and a life devoted to art, conversation, and the landscape that inspires them.

Tucked into the scenic hills of Litchfield, Connecticut, Litchfield Montessori School offers a learning environment where nature and education go hand in hand. Grounded in traditional Montessori philosophy, the school serves children from toddler through elementary years, fostering independence, curiosity, and a deep respect for the world around them.

One of the school’s defining features is its commitment to outdoor learning. From their earliest days on campus, students are encouraged to explore the natural world. With classroom doors opening directly into outdoor spaces, children move seamlessly between indoor and outdoor work.

Daily recess and outdoor physical education are core parts of the experience. Toddlers and primary students enjoy time on the playground, while Lower Elementary students gravitate to the woods, building creative, child – led communities in the nearby forest.  As they grow, boundaries are expanded allowing Upper Elementary students to venture further into the woods, gaining both freedom and responsibility. These activities encourage leadership, teambuilding, and problem-solving.

The wilderness program is a key part of the curriculum and philosophy of whole child wellness, reflecting Maria Montessori’s belief that children learn best through direct experiences, becoming self-directed, motivated learners. Whether identifying animal tracks, cooking over a fire, or climbing ropes during outdoor challenges, students engage their senses and build practical skills. These experiences help develop confidence, resilience, and a lasting connection to the natural world.

Outdoor learning also supports emotional and cognitive growth. Time in nature fosters creativity, reduces stress, and improves focus, while fostering connection to self by allowing time and space for self-reflection. At Litchfield Montessori, the playground is seen as an extension of the classroom—a place where children practice critical thinking, social negotiation, and physical coordination.

This summer, the school plans to break ground on a brand-new playground designed with input from Montessori-trained faculty. Thanks to generous community support and outside funding, this new space will enhance outdoor learning and play for all age levels. It will be a vibrant, creative area where students continue to grow through movement, exploration, and connection.

As Litchfield Montessori looks to the future, the school remains dedicated to the idea that the best learning happens when children are given the freedom to explore—with guidance, trust, and the beauty of nature all around them.—litchfieldmontessori.org