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

Electric bikes have come to the Northwest Corner. Robert Ensign discovered the joys of this new cycling experience and opened up an electric bike rental shop in West Cornwall.

Robert Ensign is originally from Norwalk. He and his family also lived in Wilton and Washington Depot, and finally settled in Sharon in 2014. As a good-sized family, they explored and enjoyed every activity in Litchfield county. One of his children had ridden an ebike and loved it so Robert decided to give it a try as well. “I thought it was the greatest thing ever.” He researched electric bicycles, trails and roads in the area, and decided to bring ebikes to the Northwest Corner of Connecticut.

The Covered Bridge Electric Bike Rental shop is located in West Cornwall in the building that was Pearley’s Farm Café, and before that the Wandering Moose restaurant. Choosing a location for his new business was easy. Robert’s family had always enjoyed visiting West Cornwall and going to the Wandering Moose. When the space became available, he realized it was the perfect space to open the ebike shop. “River Road is a hub to many different places. And it is flat-out beautiful around here,” Ensign says enthusiastically.

Before this new venture, Robert Ensign ran a large construction company for a property management company. His background in construction means that Robert has experience with safety measures. “Safety is paramount.” He suggests taking roads that are less well-travelled, to slow it down a bit. The shop provides maps and routes for their customers. They will get you from one place to another. “If you want to go to Lakeville and would prefer not to see cars, we will show you a good route to take. We do our best to keep you on quiet country roads throughout.”

The minimum age to operate ebikes is 18 years. There are 3 different styles of ebikes available at the shop, depending on customer’s height and experience. This area has some really experienced cyclists, but some people haven’t ridden a bike in 20 or 30 years. “We provide training which takes about 10 minutes. River Road is flat, making it a good place to learn.” And, of course, helmets are provided or you may bring your own.

If you need power, the ebike gives you power, but if you don’t need it, you don’t have to use it. The bikes come charged with enough power for about 40-45 miles. Typical routes are 15 to 30 miles, round trip. You choose the level you feel comfortable with. All levels are welcome. There are a few factors that determine the range of the rented ebike such as terrain and cycling efforts. Sometimes the hills are challenging, so it helps to use the electric power. This new cycling experience gives a lot of people a whole new opportunity to be outside with beautiful scenery and wildlife and to get some exercise and fresh air. It’s better than a stationery bike for those who want to exercise. “Driving on the back roads, you feel the wind in your face, smell the hay, this area is unbelieveable in many respects,” Robert goes on about riding to Ashley Falls in Norfolk. “Enjoy the quiet and solitude on our selected routes.” Geese, egrets, herons, wood ducks and bald eagles are common sightings as you head out and along the Housatonic River.

Before heading out for a ride or upon your return, enjoy fresh brewed coffee, cold drinks, and snacks on the patio by the bridge. There are plenty of seats and tables available overlooking the West Cornwall Covered Bridge.

Ebikes are also great for group outings. Bring a picnic and bring your friends. You can book ahead for your group. It’s best to book a day or two in advance to secure your ebikes during the week. A couple of days in advance is even better for the weekends. Children can sit in the carrier on the back of some bikes for short rides. There is a 130 maximum capacity and a $10 charge for the additional passenger. This is a brand new opportunity to rediscover the history and the beauty of Cornwall and Northwest Connecticut.

AMP hosts its 4th annual Art of Work Gala featuring a recycled, wearable art runway with outfits created out of recyclable and/or trash materials designed by individuals and teams.

The American Mural Project (AMP) hosts its fourth annual Art of Work Gala on Saturday, September 28 in its Winsted mill building, with the theme “Recycled Runway.” In addition to the highlight of the evening—the recycled wearable art runway show—the event includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, light projections, a live band, dance party, and dessert.

The festivities begin at 6 pm with a reception including open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres, offering attendees an opportunity to view the current progress of the mural installation. The runway show follows soon after and will showcase outfits, designed by individuals or teams, that are created out of at least 75 percent recyclable and/or trash materials. From 8–11 pm, the evening continues with the Nekita Waller Band, dance party, light projections by Joe Wheaton, and dessert.

Five levels of tickets are offered for the event. The full evening, including open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, Recycled Runway show, live band, dance party, and dessert is $175 per person or $100 for those under the age of 21. Tickets for the live band and dance party with open bar and dessert are $50 per person, or $35 per person under the age of 21. A VIP ticket option, including all of the above plus premium parking and priority seating for the runway show, is $350 per person.

Hors d’oeuvres for the event are provided by Emily’s Catering of Bristol. Nekita Waller and her band of accomplished musicians from Connecticut will perform a variety of pop, soul, R&B, and jazz hits. Joe Wheaton, known throughout the Berkshires for his energetic “art in motion” video projections, returns to AMP for the second year.

Corporate support for AMP’s Gala has been provided by Newman’s Own Foundation, R&M Insulation, Only in My Dreams Events, and Ledgebrook Spirit Shop.

Launched in 2002 by artist Ellen Griesedieck, the American Mural Project (AMP) is creating the largest indoor collaborative artwork in the world—a mural 120 feet long, 48 feet high, and up to ten feet deep. The mural is a tribute to American workers and highlights what has defined the country over the last century. It seeks to inspire, to educate, to invite collaboration, and to reveal to people of all ages the many contributions they can make to American culture. Nothing like it exists in the world.

More than 15,000 children and adults have helped create pieces of the mural, which will be housed in two former mill buildings on Whiting Street in Winsted, Connecticut. Scope Construction finished renovations on the mural building in fall 2018, and the lengthy process of assembling and installing the mural is now underway. Programming is currently offered for schools and teachers, after-school partnerships, summer enrichment camps, and an apprentice-style internship program.

Lead funding for the American Mural Project has been provided by the Newman’s Own Foundation, Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, and the Department of Economic and Community Development/Connecticut Office of the Arts, which also receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts. Recent additional support has been provided by the Connecticut Community Foundation, Draper Fund, Eversource Foundation, and Northwest Community Bank.

As we get closer to the end of September, many of us are looking forward to the High Holidays as we celebrate Jewish life in northwestern Connecticut with the GWCJL.

The Greater Washington Coalition for Jewish Life (GWCJL) will be hosting High Holiday Services for 2019, led by their dynamic spiritual leader, Rabbi James Greene. Rosh Hashana will be the evening of September 29 and the morning of September 30, after which a light luncheon will be served. Kol Nidre will be the evening of October 8, and Yom Kippur the morning and evening of October 9.

The GWCJL is a unique and diverse group of full time and weekend residents of the Litchfield County area who gather at members’ homes and local venues for stimulating spiritual, creative, intellectual, and social events. It is welcoming to all interested persons including interfaith families, Jews-By-Choice, and people of all sexual preferences.

The Coalition was started in 1995 by two residents of Washington. They wanted to create a Jewish group in Western Connecticut to celebrate holidays together. A simple ad in local newspapers invited those interested to attend High Holidays together at their homes. At first, a small group responded and met for the holiday observances. A grant from the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies provided initial seed money. Soon, word spread and the number of members grew over the next several years to more than 100 families.

Rabbi Greene’s career has been focused on community activism as opposed to the more traditional route of a pulpit sermonizing kind of rabbi. He was trained in the Reconstructionist branch of modern Judaism and has worked in Community Centers as well as synagogues in Wyoming, California, Oregon and now in Springfield, MA. He is an extremely engaging and friendly man. His strength is in creating inclusive programs that bring in people for Jewish events and learning, which makes him perfect for the Washington group. For example, earlier in August he presented a program in Southbury on modern anti-semitism and appropriate responses.

Rabbi Greene is married, has two children, and is an avid hiker. His family lives on a small farm in eastern Connecticut. Rabbi Greene is also very musical, having studied music in college and has a wonderful singing voice, which also drew him to the Jewish Coalition, as the group loves to have music as an integral part of the services.

The Jewish Coalition does not have a temple — they are not a typical congregation. While they are not the only Jewish community in the area, the group is definitely unique. This special nature of the Coalition is what draws people in. Their unique structure includes meeting in homes for Shabbat (Friday evening services with dinner), lots of social and recreational programs, and their highly involved lay leadership. People who may be looking for an alternative expression of Jewish life or who have felt like they are outside the Jewish community are welcomed by the group. Many of the members are weekenders who spend time in the area and yearn for Jewish connections away from their city life while they are here. Others are full-timers who wish for a Jewish experience outside of a traditional synagogue. Some are simply looking for social opportunities, others may seek more spiritual satisfaction. The group meets people at their point of availability within the Coalition and invites them to participate.

In addition to monthly Friday evening services and dinner the Coalition has regular educational sessions with the rabbi, an ongoing speaker series, holiday celebrations and social and entertainment engagements. The group celebrates services with its own prayer book and on the high holidays uses its own Torah housed in an arc designed and made by members.

With Rabbi Greene’s dynamic personality as a leader, the upcoming services promise to create new connections and experiences. If you are interested in joining this diverse and vibrant group for the High Holidays or for future services and programs, contact them at the contact info below.

For more information and reservations, please call the Coalition office at: 860.868.2434 or admin@jewishlifect.org

On September 7th, Charym Yoga Studio in Litchfield celebrates its 11-Year Anniversary by hosting a yoga party and potluck, followed by a group sound healing session. You are all invited.

This September Charym Yoga Studio in Litchfield celebrates their 11 year anniversary; an important milestone in the yogic tradition. Gather with your yoga community on Saturday, September 7 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm with a courtyard party and potluck, followed by a complementary group sound healing session hosted by Charym teachers.

Charym is a yoga center founded by Alexandra Champalimaud. Charym’s Center Studio is an oasis of tranquility, located in the heart of West Street Yard in Litchfield, an award-winning adaptive reuse of a 19th-century lumberyard designed by Champalimaud. Voted again in 2019 Best Yoga Studio in Connecticut by Town Vibe magazine, Charym has become a well-loved part of the local community and a wonderful weekend destination for busy New Yorkers.

For over a decade, Charym has been a pillar of local yoga in Litchfield county. Original teacher Victoria Mazzarelli hosted the first yoga class at this charming studio on West Street and continues to teach her signature Ballet Yoga Flow class every Friday at 9:15 am. Prior to the Saturday celebrations, Charym encourages attendance to Victoria’s Friday, September 6th class, where she will be honored by the community. Director Nicole Renée Matthews warmly explains that “Charym is a hidden gem. Once found, community members joyfully share in a diversity of styles of yoga with passionate, innovative teachers,” and hopes to see many familiar faces at this year’s celebration.

The anniversary party is open to the public and encourages all to bring their family and friends. Festivities will begin after Mike Torrant’s 10 am Vinyasa Flow class. Light refreshments and herbal beverages will be provided. No prior yoga experience is required for the group sound healing session and plenty of mats, bolsters and blankets are available for your comfort.

Abby Layne is a new American vocalist who performs with guitarist and songwriter John Alper. Her voice is powerful, going from intimate to intense. Remember her name.

Born near Finch Hill in Pennsylvania, Abby Layne currently resides in Gaylordsville, Connecticut. Just like so many children, she loved to sing as a young child. She comes from a musical family. Her grandfather had 7 siblings and every one of them played an instrument. Abby was influenced by their talents and skills in creating music. With her mother’s encouragement, she began singing back-up in church when she was 15 years old.

One day a local singer, songwriter, and musician named John Alper was sitting in the back of the church and heard Abby perform. He was so impressed, that after the service, he walked up to the front of the church, extended his hand to Abby, introduced himself, and said, “What are you doing with the rest of your life?” And as they say, the rest is history.

John Alper’s mother has been an artist her entire life. When he was little, she painted, played a little piano and she had a good singing voice. Her father played jazz standards on the organ. John’s family lived in the Washington D.C. area and his mother would take little John and his sister to listen to live jazz at various venues. She led a bohemian lifestyle and had a great jazz record collection. John began spinning vinyl records on their victrola when he was 3 years old. His mother took him to every museum in the area. She also brought him to Charlie Byrd’s Showboat Lounge in D.C. Charlie Byrd was an American jazz guitarist, best known for introducing latin jazz into the mainstream of North American music. He collaborated with Stan Getz on the album Jazz Samba. At the Showboat Lounge and Carter Barron Amphitheater John Alper heard Ella Fitzgerald, Harry Belafonte, Oscar Peterson and many more amazing performers, and has frequented the Showboat for many years. He was hooked.

When John Alper’s mother married a very successful doctor, they had a series of parties at their home and hired many great musicians to provide the entertainment. This was pivotal for young John Alper. One of those musicians was a guitarist named Andy Merrell who played classical, flamenco, and jazz. John was hypnotized by his music and decided that he wanted to be a guitarist too. He took classical guitar lessons from age 8 to 12. He studied under the direction of Sophocles Papas, a student of the internationally renowned classical guitarist Andres Segovia.

During junior high school, Alper formed a rock band with his friend Jeff Cooper called The Off Beats. They performed at every school event. When John was sent to a private school, he stopped playing guitar for a while but later picked it up again. He has had a successful career in film and became an internationally known award-winning director of tv commercials and has composed and performed music for film, tv, and gospel.

By Abby’s junior year of high school, John and Abby began recording their music. Abby started off in country music, but John didn’t want to do just straight-up country. An example of that is the song Mississippi Sun. They found that the genre of Americana was a good fit for them. John enlisted Roger Filgate, a local guitarist and composer, as well as Tom Dobson, a producer/songwriter/performer who helped change their style, reworked a couple of songs, and wrote some new songs. In 2016, Abby Layne was picked up by Fieldhouse Music, a multi-level music production platform actively involved in seeking “emerging artists” at BMG Music Publishing.

Abby also took a lesson from Wendy Parr (New York and Nashville) who runs the Artists’ Circle, a monthly group get-together, which she found to be very spiritual.

John and Abby have been practicing together once a week for over 5 years. Their songwriting process is a typical one in that John writes the lyrics and Abby contributes as the piece is coming together. After writing the lyrics, he sends Abby the texts. John puts some chords to it and Abby explores the melody through her vocals. The song takes form after rounds of rehearsing and finessing. Abby inspires John to write— she is his muse. “At the beginning, I was channeling a 16-year-old. I learned her vocabulary and applied it to the lyrics. I used the issues she was having with her boyfriend as material.”

These days they are into the music of Amy Winehouse—their musical range actually fits in a jazz/pop/country style. John calls it “pop with a jazz influence – jazzy pop.” Layne and Alper now have about 50 songs in their repertoire, and are actively working towards a first album.

The duo has performed in many venues in Connecticut, including The Hopkins Inn and The Owl Wine Bar. At The Towne Crier in Beacon, New York they performed on the main stage to hundreds of people. The have also performed at a wedding, a funeral, and as a praise band at the New Milford Walnut Hill campus.

“Music is my escape, happy place, and where I feel I can be myself. I couldn’t live without it,” says 20-year-old Abby Layne. Abby’s voice is silky smooth, with the ability to go from intimate to intense — and you might even hear a growl or two in there. She looks young and innocent, but her voice sounds mature and experienced. Chains is a high-energy song with sass. Crazy for You has a pop sound with a hip beat. Spiraling Down references a country sound. White Turns to Black has a slower-paced, sexy tone. And Lullaby is a soft piece with an ascending chorus that is catchy — you’ll find yourself humming or singing it. You can listen to these songs here: www.abbylaynemusic.com

Abby Layne is an enormously talented vocalist who is yet to be discovered by the bigger world. Together with John Alper’s beautiful songwriting, compositions, accompanying vocals, and his incredible talent on the guitar, the duo is a tour de force. As John Alper notes, “The world is ready for Abby, but is Abby ready for the world?”

You can catch Abby Layne and John Alper at the Owl Wine Bar at 18 East Shore Road in New Preston on Saturday, August 3rd and on August 30th, 5:30 – 9 pm.

An extraordinary evening, the Annual Farmer’s Table dinner brings our communities together for a delicious, seasonal meal while supporting Litchfield County farms.

Decorative painter Trish McTague is a master at transforming spaces and surfaces into another dimension, creating magical illusions that please the eye and feed the soul.

Artist Patricia McTague has been painting houses for over 30 years. Combining her education and background in fine art and graphic design with the skills she developed as a house painter, Trish has much to offer her clients—meaningful, one-of-a-kind finishes in their homes. She specializes in faux finishes, trompe l’oeil, painted-in-place murals as well as installed murals, and painted floors and cabinetry. She is a master at wood graining and marbelized finishes, and is an expert at replicating historic wallpapers with paint. In 2000, she launched Tague Designs, an interior and decorative painting company.

Tague Designs offers color consultations and interior design concepts, customized painted furniture, and commissioned fine art pieces. Trish is as comfortable working on period-appropriate projects in historic homes as she is painting a whimsical ceiling mural. Her intention is always to work closely with her clients, managing both their budgets and their expectations for the best possible finished product. She recently completed a mural on the inside of a custom camper van in southern California. You can see that project and many more on her instagram page @taguedesigns.

As a young child, Trish McTague was naturally artistic. Both she and her sister loved art. She took art lessons at 10 years old, and during her high school years, she created posters for events and stage set designs. She was selected to participate in the Talented & Gifted Program for Art. Later, she graduated from Northwestern Community College with degrees in graphic design and fine arts. In her twenties, she assisted the painter Herman Margulies, then moved to Washington D.C. where she worked at a design firm doing color analysis for print, and had the opportunity to work on various clients’ projects, including Tommy Hilfiger.

Trish enjoys doing volunteer work for the community. “I love community. I think it is very important. Art is a great way to bring a community together.” She volunteers for the Town of Litchfield and the Litchfield Community Center.She also does volunteer work for the Abbey of Regina Laudis, where she works on stage sets and does general painting. She enjoys working with Mother Anastasia and the nuns from the Abbey.

While still in college, Trish worked as a server at the GW Tavern where she met the two artists who created the murals in the restaurant. She joined Nora Johnson and Moira Kelly on many decorative painting projects and learned a variety of methods such as striée, faux plaster, wood grain, as well as other methods and styles. A friend living in Mexico (originally from Connecticut), artist Darryl Eddy taught her about murals.

“What I love so much about painting is that it is magical in its ability to transform any space.” With her talent, passion, and vision Trish McTague has the power to turn plain spaces into another dimension, whether they are graphic borders or a dreamlike scene.

We spoke with Trish about her process and asked her for tips to help us make the right paint decisions. Here is what she had to say:

When customers commission you to paint their house, do they show you examples of what they are looking for? Or do you offer suggestions to them? Or is it a bit if both? How does it work?

Sometimes my clients know exactly what they want, whether they were inspired from a trip to Europe or a picture in a magazine. Sometimes they need a lot of guidance. Before I meet with them, I ask them to find sources that inspire them. My philosophy is that it is my job to articulate my clients’ inspiration and to help guide them to create their dream. It’s a process and an evolution of ideas. It is important to really get to know them. I will meet them in their home to see what they are inherently all about. I take the inspiration, make samples and or drawings for approval. It is imperative to only meet during daylight hours to discuss color concepts and to discuss the process of completion.

Do you spend time researching a style before you begin a project? Can you give us an example?

Yes, most projects require some amount of research. I once did a mural in a dining room on Lake Waramaug that depicted the lake before 1900. We did extensive research with historic pictures of architecture past and present. It was interesting to learn the rich history—and mostly forgotten history—about Lake Waramaug.

Are most of your current projects and clients in Litchfield county or do you still work in NYC?

I used to work in New York, but for the last 18 years, I have tended to work mostly in Litchfield and Fairfield counties so I could raise my son. Now that he is grown, I have been more open to traveling to new areas. I love to travel. Most recently I had the opportunity to design a Sprinter van in Topanga, California for a client looking to create a space unique to her imagination. That was a wonderful experience.

What tips do you have for people who are afraid of using color in their homes?

I personally tend to be neutral with color but I love to pop with colorful accessories. It allows for the opportunity to change up a room over time without much effort. However, I love to work with clients who love color on their walls. It’s a personality type. Painting is so overwhelming to most people that they cannot commit to color or they worry what other people will think. I try to remind the client that it is their home and unique to them, to do what they really want and go for it! I can be brutally honest at times about colors and ideas, and people usually appreciate my honesty and experience. Most importantly, I try very hard to guide and inspire them to do what genuinely defines their individuality.

When is it appropriate to use a glaze on walls?

When it comes to glazing walls, it is easier to say when it’s not appropriate. I mean, you can glaze any wall. Glazes can create atmosphere, depth, warmth, and hide a multitude of imperfections in walls. However, I would never recommend it in high traffic areas. Glazes are difficult to repair. For instance, it would not be advisable to apply a glaze to a stairway in a home with lots of children, kitchens, or work areas in restaurants.

Do you have favorite paint colors and/or brands?

Paint colors are unique to each client and the space in question. All paint companies have great color selections. Benjamin Moore has an extensive collection. Farrow & Ball has a limited but popular color selection but it is very expensive. Most paint stores, however, have the formulas to make other brands’ color selections. I tend to use Benjamin Moore products because they are always consistent and I am familiar with the products. Personally, I lean towards whites and neutrals for paint and then accessorize with pop colors. This way you can change up the theme for different seasons or just for a new look without much difficulty.

What is your favorite kind of project to work on—murals, faux finishes, graphic patterns?

I enjoy almost all genres stylistically and always appreciate diversity in my work. What I like most about my profession is that every project is unique. Whether it is murals, glazing walls or designing graphic stencil designs. Every project demands its own combination of integrity and imagination to fit the client and their individuality. My business includes all aspects of painting from straight painting a small bathroom, to brand new construction, to large scale trompe l’oeil murals. People often assume I won’t or don’t do straight basic painting but is a large portion of my work. No job is too small or too big. Funnily enough, one of my favorite painting jobs is just straight painting old, outdated, dark wooden kitchen cabinets. It’s so easy and the instant gratification is priceless.

You have worked in restaurants, shops, and residences – is there another type of location you would like to add to your list? A corporate office, a school, a boat, a library, a public space?

I have painted in corporate offices (PorPark, HQ Hartford), in schools (Forbes Elementary School and Library) and I have painted sets for stage designs at The Warner Theater. I have always been inspired by and would love the opportunity to paint large outdoor murals. I have a great idea for Torrington that involves bringing some historic murals unique to the city and painting them in large scale on buildings.

Is there something you would like to try that you haven’t attempted yet? A method or a style, or a project?

Yes, two things: 1) Gilding/gold leafing. 2) I would love to travel around the world painting murals in hotels, restaurants, sides of buildings and impoverished towns to help create a sense of well being. I love to volunteer my artistic talents to make the world a better place.

Milton Market is a modern-day general store in Litchfield where the focus is on quality, practical, everyday items for the home and the vibe is natural, fresh, and beautiful.

Martha Fish and Gerardo Figueroa just recently opened a life-style shop in Litchfield’s charming Cobble Court. Milton Market is a lovely space with a zen atmosphere, where shopping becomes therapeutic. From dishes to glassware, artworks to napkins, facial products to espadrilles—things you need to have a chic life in the country—most items are made of natural materials and have a fresh, simple aesthetic.

Together, the partners bring years of experience in merchandising and fashion (Calvin Klein, Coach, Reed Krakoff, Tiffany & Co., Barneys, Calvin Klein, and Michael Kors). The connections and business relationships they have built over the years with top-notch designers are key to their approach for this new venture. Here’s what they have to say about their philosophy at Milton Market:

Where are you each originally from and how did you end up in Litchfield County?

MF: I’m originally from Connecticut and always had a sense I’d be back. Fifteen years ago, when I was living in New York City and looking for a weekend place, I discovered the Milton section of Litchfield and immediately fell in love. It’s an historic district and a hidden gem. There are so many special places hidden in these Hills, so many reasons to love this corner of Northwestern Connecticut.

GF: I am originally from Puerto Rico. I moved to NYC for college and have called it home ever since. Martha and I met when we were working at Calvin Klein 20+ years ago and I first discovered Litchfield visiting Martha.

Tell us briefly about your background: education, work experience, retail experience, etc.

MF: I graduated with a degree in communications, but my real love was always fashion. My first job was at Ralph Lauren. Following that, Calvin Klein, Coach and Reed Krakoff. I’ve worked as a buyer, a merchandiser and in design management, and I’ve always had a soft spot for retail. I had a really influential mentor in my time at Calvin Klein who had a big influence on my career, and she had an amazing lifestyle store in the Hamptons. I think that stuck with me all of these years.

GF: I went to Parsons in NYC and immediately after started working in fashion. My first job was at Barneys New York, working in Visual Merchandising. From there I went to Calvin Klein and then onto Michael Kors. I have always been very connected to the retail experience, but haven’t worked in retail.

Can you describe the concept and philosophy of your new shop?

The inspiration for Milton Market is the modern-day general store. Every item we carry illustrates our take on “utility”. These are the things you need and use every day— home goods, apothecary supplies, paper goods—but we track down and sell only the most beautiful versions of these items. Our style is very consistent and it reflects the clean, quality-driven aesthetic we developed over many years of working alongside some of the industry’s most talented designers.

In terms of pricing, we’re all about creating the kind of range that makes Milton Market exciting and accessible to everyone. That’s why you’ll find the perfect everyday glass for $5. and the most luxurious, hand-woven blanket from Swan’s Island, Maine for $900. Seasonality and locally-sourced products are two other points that inform our thinking. So, alongside our basics you’ll find products focused on the specific time of year. As you can imagine, summer entertaining is huge for us now, but we’re deep in planning some amazing surprises for fall!

Where do you source the merchandise featured in the store?

Milton Market needs to feel personal and unique. Personal, for us, translates to working with the talented friends we’ve made during 20+ years working in fashion. These friends, who’ve now built their own brands and businesses, introduce us to their friends …and so it goes. Thanks to these connections, we have access to very singular sources. Plus, we’re always finding new things we love. We focus on local, small-batch makers and artisans who care about sustainability and whose products are as ecologically friendly as they are aesthetically pleasing.

Do you feature local artists and artisans?

Yes, we do! Featuring work by local artists and artisans runs deep in the Milton Market DNA. We opened the store with original gouaches from the local artist, Melissa Meredith. We also carry many NY-based brands because for us (a New Yorker and ex-NYer), New York is in our blood. We have work from potter Jessie Lazar, and apothecary products from Costa Brazil, Circumference and Kate McLeod. Our candles are made in Brooklyn by KeapBK. We’re always looking to add more work from artists and artisans working close by and will be doing so in our Fall/Holiday assortment.

Will you be adding more home furnishings or will you keep it to smaller home goods?

We offer a small selection of home furnishings—like benches and tables—and plan to move things in and out according to season.

You carry the line of Saint Olio cleaning products (for home and body) which are made of natural ingredients — why this brand?

To be honest we first fell in love with their packaging, but we absolutely love what the company does and what they stand for. Saint Olio is one brand that really captures what we want to bring to Milton Market. Everyone needs cleaning supplies, but their small-batch products are natural (based on botanicals and essential oils), environmentally friendly and… they work. Oh, and their scents are absolutely amazing!

Do you work with interior designers and architects, or are your customers residential home owners?

Both! Though we focus on residential home-owners and their everyday needs, we now have local interior designers shopping for clients—and that’s been both surprising and super fun!

How has the response been from the community?

We so appreciate the response we’ve received. People in the community have been so positive and welcoming. We’re thrilled to be a part of the Litchfield business community. Our goal was to appeal to locals, weekenders and day-trippers. So far, so good!

What are your plans for the future of Milton Market?

The main focus for us is PRODUCT and finding, sourcing and creating the most special assortment for Milton Market. We still have more coming for summer, but a big focus is on finalizing our Fall and Holiday assortment. We have so much more to share, stay tuned!

At Shop Cathy b. in Woodbury, owner Cathy Boskoff melds the two worlds of New York and Connecticut fashion offering a great selection of women’s clothing and accessories.

Where are you originally from and how did you end up here in Litchfield County?

I’m originally from Great Neck, Long Island. My husband and I were empty nesters and looking for a lifestyle change. The slower pace and country lifestyle of Litchfield County was a perfect fit for us!

What is your background and what was it that inspired you to open up your shop in Woodbury?

While raising 4 children, I satisfied my entrepreneurial spirit by selling real estate on The North Shore of Long Island. After retiring and moving to Litchfield County, I saw a need for something different in local boutique shopping. I decided to open my own shop melding the two worlds of NY and CT fashion.

How would you describe your business?

I would describe the store as a fun place to shop. We carry a wide range of styles, sizes and price points… so there is something for every shopper. We pride ourselves on taking the time to make each customer feel important and looking their very best!

How is your shop different from other women’s clothing shops in Kent and Litchfield?

We have a unique selection of classic styles, the latest trends, including handbags, footwear, and jewelry from around the world, not to mention our adorable line of baby clothes; high-end creams, lotions, and soaps which make for perfect gifts that we hand-wrap with our signature packaging.

What are some of the more popular brands that you carry in the shop?

Some of our popular brands include Just Black Jeans, Wearables, Wilt, and Bella Dahl.

What kind of response have you had from the community?

I’ve been open for almost 2 years and the response has been welcoming and favorable. Not only do we have loyal customers who feel like family, but each day offers us an opportunity to meet new customers.

Are your customers from various age groups or a more specific age group?

We have various age groups but our core demographic is probably middle age and beyond.

What are your plans for the future of Shop Cathy b.?

The business is evolving every day. We are building our ECommerce business at a rapid pace and are always searching for new and exciting products to introduce to our customers.

SHOP Cathy b.
641 Main Street
(next door to MarketPlace restaurant)
Woodbury

cathy@cathyb.com
203.586.1919
shopcathyb.com

On July 12 & 13, the 2019 Open House & Garden Tour in Litchfield celebrates the Town of Litchfield’s tercentennial. This year’s tour features 300 years of architecture.

The Litchfield Aid of the Connecticut Junior Republic (CJR) will hold a historic Open House & Garden Tour in celebration of the Town of Litchfield’s tercentennial. Consisting of two distinct rain or shine events, The Aid’s 2019 benefit will feature an informative and dynamic one-mile walking tour within the Borough of Litchfield, a National Historic Landmark District. Litchfield’s rich architectural history will be represented by nine houses and gardens dating from the 17th to 20th centuries. All of the homes, gardens, and locations of interest are within walking distance to the center of town and Litchfield’s famous historic district.

According to Marla Patterson, Chairperson of the Litchfield Open House & Garden Tour, funds raised to-date for The Litchfield Aid of the Connecticut Junior Republic’s 67th House Tour fundraising event have already exceeded expectations. On behalf of The Aid, Ms. Patterson expressed her gratitude to the homeowners who have graciously offered their homes and gardens for the tour, and to Deborah and Declan Murphy for taking on the leadership role as Chairpersons of the Honorary Committee.

“None of this would be possible without the willingness and generosity of our homeowners to open up their homes and gardens to the public, and the commitment and dedication of our Honorary Committee Chairs, Deborah and Declan Murphy,” stated Ms. Patterson. “Deborah and Declan have engaged Litchfield residents and businesses that share their passion for the young people of our Connecticut community and the programs and services that CJR provides. They have established an Honorary Committee that is committed to making this a successful fundraising event and celebration of our historic town,” she continued.

Declan Murphy is President of Novens, a Connecticut-based corporation, which is a major international distributor of plasma and plasma protein products, and a consultant to major biopharmaceutical corporations and the public health sector in healthcare development worldwide. He is the immediate past president of the CJR Board of Directors and continues to serve on the board. Deborah and Declan were the Honorary Chairpersons of the Litchfield Aid’s hugely successful High Style in the Hills fundraising event in 2014. The Murphy’s have resided in Litchfield for nearly twenty years, and continue to be significant contributors to the Litchfield community.

The July 12th Preview Party will be held at the extraordinary Ozias Seymour Homestead which has been a grand presence on South Street since 1807. Touring the Seymour House tells the tale of Litchfield’s history, life, politics and architecture over two hundred years. Sumptuous food and spirits will be complemented by jazz performances by JINQs and the Nutmeg Ballet Dancers throughout the evening.

Houses, Gardens & Locations of Interest by Century:

17th CENTURY

Thomas Painter House, 1682
One of the oldest houses in Connecticut, this center- chimney saltbox was built around 1682 and moved in 1959 from New Haven to its current location, the former home site of Lyman Beecher and birthplace of Henry Ward Beecher and Harriet Beecher Stowe. The early Dutch stylized influence is evident in the unique ‘kick’ or sweep of the roofline and hooded doors. All the framing, including the roof and floorboards, is of oak with gunstock posts and split studs. During restoration in 1959, earlier renovations were preserved, including double-hung wide mullion windows, plastering, beaded clapboards and other 18th century improvements. In 1989, the gambrel rear wing was enlarged, and in 1997 the Counting Room was expanded.

18th CENTURY

The Colonel Benjamin Tallmadge House, 1775
This gracious, gambrel-roofed dwelling was built by Giles Kilbourne for Thomas Sheldon and purchased by Col. Benjamin Tallmadge in 1782. Tallmadge, a legendary figure in General Washington’s notorious spy ring, lived here until his death in 1817. The home is one of the finest High Georgian residences in the Litchfield Borough. Tallmadge enlarged the original dwelling with the addition of columned porticos on the north and south sides of the home lending an air of monumentality not exhibited by other 18th century structures in the Borough.

The Charles Butler/Corner House, 1792
Sited on a prominent corner in the Borough, this house is a two-story Federal structure with quoins at the corners, pedimented gable ends and a denticulated cornice oriented toward North and East Street. In 1813, Frederick Deming added the north wing with its giant order Tuscan columned portico similar to those found on the Tallmadge House across the street. The primary entrance of the original section is on the west side where the four-panel door and small light transom are surrounded by a fluted pilaster frontispiece. Original features abound including a large walk-in fireplace in the keeping room with its stone hearth and working beehive ovens and a paneled dining room. An Olmstead-designed pocket garden and antique garden house grace the north side of the property.

19th CENTURY

The Ozias Seymour House, 1807
This central chimney, Federal-style home was built in 1807 by Ozias Seymour on a lot immediately to the north of his father’s home and hat shop. In the 1800s, fulling mills were located beyond the iron foundry on North Street. Here, wool was fulled “for hats made and sold on South Street by Ozias and Moses Seymour.” An 1884 map of the house shows not only the store but extensive outbuildings behind the house. During the late 1990s and 2000s, the house underwent major renovation by several owners. Now a highly styled, gracious home with preciously preserved details such as an impressive two-story library, the Ozias Seymour House is both beautiful and serviceable for large growing families.

The George C. Woodruff House, 1829
Built in 1829 and purchased by George C. Woodruff in 1842, this house remained in the Woodruff family for 137 years. The original structure was flanked by matching covered side porches with geometric latticework and frieze panels. A rear two-story addition dates to the late 19th century. In 1916, the south porch was removed and a two-story wing added with a single-story Tuscan covered veranda on the rear. At the same time, the original entrance was eliminated and replaced with a bay window. Another rear addition was created for the staff in the early 1900s. Since 2000, the current owners have continued with extensive restoration, including renovation of the three-bay carriage house, transforming it into an entertaining area finished in reclaimed barn wood and complete with a state-of-the-art kitchen, music system, bluestone patio, and fountain.

The G. Morris Woodruff House, 1855
In 1855, the Major Moses Seymour saltbox-style residence (built in 1735) was demolished on this site to build the George M. Woodruff House. This home is the finest and most ambitious example of the Italianate villa style in the Litchfield Borough. The handsome well-preserved structure is three bays wide with broad overhanging eaves and a deep plain frieze. The shallow hip-roofed structure is crowned by a rectangular-windowed belvedere (cupola). Two-story octagonal-ended bays with four-over-four windows on the north and south elevations are unusual due to the diminishing second level feature. Of particular significance is the front porch supported by distinctive fluted columnar-like posts with bulbous bases atop pedestals. The frieze replicates the deep design on the main eave level.

The Frederick A. P. Barnard House, 1886
This statuesque Colonial Revival home was built by Frederick Augustus Porter Barnard as a summer residence. Barnard was born with hereditary hearing loss and had a successful career teaching the hearing impaired, and was later president of Columbia University of NYC. In 1929, the subsequent owners embarked on an ambitious renovation. The north elevation suggests that the original styling was in the Colonial Revival mode. The three-bay façade has a shallow vestibule and a fluted pilaster frontispiece and a wooden lunette transom with an iron grill. Renovations made by the current owners include a magnificent master bedroom and bath suite, highly sophisticated décor and a stately garden facing the west.

20th CENTURY

The Kingsbury Bull House, 1939
The Bull house is a gracious mid-20th century Colonial Revival estate situated on 11 acres and includes many diverse adaptations of a Federal-style home. Both the main entrance and the central garden entrance on the south are set with magnificent Federal Revival frontispieces. The current owners undertook a major renovation to accommodate a growing family while preserving precious historic detail. Major interior dividing walls were removed to create brighter, open interior spaces. Several recent past owners have meticulously restored the landscape, pool house and arbor to retain its original design.

A Litchfield Marcel Breuer House, 1954
Marcel Breuer, a leader in the architectural Mid-Century Modernist design movement, built this 10,000 square foot villa for a local family in 1954. It was constructed of steel framing elements and reinforced-concrete slabs. The upper level is on grade with the entrance and features a large open dining-living area space, service area and a large outdoor terrace with a dance floor. The bush-hammered fireplace is possibly Breuer’s most sculptural and iconic signature. The lower rooms were designed to accommodate the original owners’ children and open to a private pool area.

Places of Historical Interest on the Tour:

The Tapping Reeve House, 1773 & Law School, 1784
(The Litchfield Historical Society)
From 1774 to 1833 the Litchfield Law School attracted over 1000 young men from all over the Country to study law with Judge Tapping Reeve. Reeve taught his first students in the home he built in 1774, but by 1784 the number of students had outgrown the house and he built the law school building. The home and law school are now owned and operated by the Litchfield Historical Society. The award-winning exhibition offers role-playing, hands-on areas, and interpretive exhibits allowing visitors the opportunity to explore timeless issues of travel, communication, education, and community.

The Litchfield County Jail, 1812
The oldest public building in Litchfield and one of the oldest penal facilities in the state, the Federal style Litchfield Jail was built in 1812. The jail had a cell block added in 1846 and a three-story wing with additional cell blocks was added in 1900. In 1992 the state closed the jail as a penal facility; afterward, it served for a short time as a rehabilitation center for women. In 2014 it was purchased by a private developer who proposed that it be reinvented for residential, retail and multipurpose use while preserving the historic character of the building. Following an arduous challenge by the Litchfield Historic Commission, the renovated jail today functions as a lively public building housing shops, condominiums, office space, a bakery and a soon to be opened pub/restaurant where patrons will dine within an old, three-story cell block.

The Phineas Miner Law Office, 1820
This tidy gray building where attorney Phineas Miner practiced law was built in 1820 in the Greek Revival style, an architectural style very popular in the country during the nineteenth century. It was used as the Bronson Family Store and later sold in 1905 to a civic-minded group who has owned and lovingly maintained it for over 110 years. The façade owes its elegance and symmetry to the influence of the ancient Greek temples and their imposing columned exteriors. Its fluted square posts, tall front door, and very large windows topped by and expressed frieze board, are all typical Greek Revival features.

21st CENTURY

The Tapping Reeve Meadow, 2017
(The Litchfield Historical Society)
The six acres surrounding the Tapping Reeve House has been re-imagined – not as a strict interpretation of a time period, but rather with landscape elements that would have been found in Litchfield from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The site features a children’s garden, a traditional post and beam pavilion, heirloom apple orchard, a chestnut nursery, a wet meadow, and stone walls. The Meadow is designed to provide visitors with opportunities for learning, relaxation and reflection. Meadow programs give visitors up-close and personal interactions with nature – not as passive bystanders, but as active participants who touch, smell, taste, learn new vocabulary and develop observational and listening skills.

Fun Facts about Litchfield and the House Tour

• George Washington spent time at the Oliver Wolcott Sr. house during the Revolutionary War.
• Oliver Wolcott Sr., a friend of Alexander Hamilton, was the 19th Governor of Connecticut and a signer of the Declaration of independence.
• Benjamin Tallmadge spearheaded George Washington’s spy network.
• Henry Ward Beecher, born in Litchfield and the father of Harriet Beecher Stowe, was sent by President Abraham Lincoln on a speaking tour of Europe to build support for the Union cause during the Civil War in 1863.
• The Tapping Reeve Law School was the first Law School in the US. During 1800-1850, 10% of all the members of Congress had attended the school. The fathers & grandfathers of these men formed the constitution.
• The Litchfield Female Academy, founded in 1792 by Sarah Pierce, was one of the most important female institutions in the US. Between 1792-1833, more than 3,000 students from seventeen different states graduated from the school. They followed the Williams College curriculum brought over by Sarah Pierce’s nephew John Pierce Brace.

All of these facts contribute to the town of Litchfield’s significance within the tapestry of American History taught in US schools today.

About The Connecticut Junior Republic
Founded in 1904, the Connecticut Junior Republic (CJR) provides residential and community-based care, treatment, education and family support for vulnerable at-risk, special needs and troubled young people so they may become productive and fulfilled members of their homes, schools, and communities. Today, the organization’s combined programs serve approximately 1,500 boys and girls annually in 12 locations throughout Connecticut.

Sponsors: Connecticut Cottages and Gardens (CTC&G), Arethusa Farm, Bantam Wesson, Carmody Torrance Sandak Hennessey, Litchfield Bancorp, Litchfield Distillery, O&G Industries, Torrington Savings, Bank, Union Savings Bank, Webster Bank, West Group Law PLLC, and Winvian Farm.

Preview Tour: Friday, July 12, 4:30 to 7:30 pm
Cocktail Reception: Friday, July 12, 7 to 9:30 pm
Open House & Garden Tour: Saturday, July 13,
10 am to 5 pm

Tickets: Admission on the day of the tour is $65 per person;
Advance admission is $60 per person.
Admission on the day of the Tour may be purchased at the House Tour Tent on the Green. Tickets may be purchased online (litchfieldaid.org) or by writing to: The Litchfield Aid of CJR, P.O. Box 214, Litchfield, CT 06759. Checks should be made payable to: The Litchfield Aid of CJR. Orders for advance admission to the Tour must be postmarked no later than Friday, June 21. Advance purchases are non-refundable. The Saturday event requires a wristband that must be picked up with a program at theHouse Tour Tent on the Litchfield Town Green.

Both events begin at the House Tour Tent
on the Green in Litchfield.
A program will be provided at the time of check-in.

860.567.9423
litchfieldaid.org