Our History Happy Hour series continues in 2027! Be sure to reserve your seat early for these convivial evenings that pair education and social engagement.

Each History Happy Hour event features a brief but fascinating presentation about Madison history, followed by a chance to socialize and enjoy beverages and hors d’oeuvres with fellow history buffs in the 1785 Allis-Bushnell House.

Mark Your Calendars

Date: Friday, September 25
Time: 6 pm to 7 pm
Location: 853 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 06443
Presenter: Charlie Shafer
Title: Murder Mystery
Suggested Donation: $15 Adults / $10 MHS Members. Registration is requested.

On September 25, Charlie Shafer will present “Murder Mystery.” He’ll explore two notorious local murder cases from the 1800s. Discover the details of the infamous Mary Stannard case along with the lesser-known Collier murder. This presentation is a preview of these chilling stories, which will be brought to life during guided Madison Land Trust hikes in October.

Charlie has been restoring old houses professionally for 40 years and has been an avid hiker for far longer. He has always combined his love for history and his love for the outdoors by exploring the nooks and crannies of life and industry, in the old mines and abandoned towns of the mountains of Colorado and in New England on its old roads and in its historic structures. He has a special interest in the area’s collier fireplaces, which he has started to document photographically in Madison and the surrounding towns. He also enjoys documenting assorted remnants he finds in the woods, left by older farmers and residents.