January 8
4 pm
Preserving Connecticut's Cultural Heritage
Presenters: Jonathan Kinney & Mary Dunne
The series will open with a presentation by two representatives of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO.) Architectural Historian Mary Dunne and Director of Operations Jonathan Kinney will provide an overview of the programs and services available to municipalities, nonprofits, local advocates, and owners of historic properties. Their engaging talk will set the stage for the later lectures by defining the importance of historic preservation and by sharing information about useful preservation resources.

January 29
4 pm
Tales from a Historic Homeowner
Presenter: Phoebe Schreiner

Local realtor and Instagram personality Phoebe Schreiner will offer her presentation, “Tales from a Historic Homeowner,” on January 29. A lifelong New Englander, Schreiner and her family are restoring their “West Wind Farmhouse” and its adjacent barns on Green Hill Road. The lecture will highlight the home’s history, examine its original construction date, discuss the characteristics and qualities unique to the house, and explore the experience of living in a historic property while undertaking restoration and redesign projects. The talk will offer the dual perspectives of a realtor with deep knowledge of the marketplace and a homeowner with deep respect for the history of the property.  

February 19
4 pm
Sympathetic Restoration & Design Solutions for Historic Homes
Presenters: Travis and Felicia Gulick

Local renovation and design experts Travis and Felicia Smith Gulick will offer a presentation on the challenges of integrating modern conveniences in historic houses while retaining their original architectural elements. The pair will offer helpful information on determining the style of historic homes and will provide resources for period-appropriate color schemes, architectural details, and the sourcing of historic building materials. Examples of local historic home renovations that combine the craftsmanship of the past with modern design elements will be offered to show how historic homes can be updated to create appeal for generations to come.

March 12
4 pm
Preservation Efforts to Restore Lee's Academy
Presenters: Geoff Buell & Alex Gerrish

General contractor Geoff Buell of Buell Construction will provide an update on the extensive renovations that have been ongoing at Lee’s Academy. This iconic Madison structure located on the green has been part of the town’s built environment for more than two hundred years. Alex Gerrish, who researched the history of the building, will open the talk with a brief history of the building and an explanation of how it came to rest in its current location. Buell will discuss the recent preservation efforts, which have included structural improvements and adaptations that will enable access to all members of the community.