Submitted by Elizabeth Malloy, Executive Director, Haddam Historical Society
(November 13, 2026) — Each year the Haddam Historical Society bestows an award to a person or persons who has performed an outstanding service to the organization and contributed to furthering the mission of the Society, which is to preserve, collect, interpret and promote the history and heritage of Haddam for present and future generations.
This year we honored Beth and Fred Hartke, long-time Higganum residents, who have opened their beautiful historic home for tours, shared their extensive collection of Haddam history, and worked on various committees and programming.
Beth was long time educator at RSD 17, where many students had her for math and she is known locally as an expert knitter who has hosted our winter woolies program for more than thirty years. Each winter a group gathers at the museum to work on various projects with Beth guiding us with patience and expertise. She has served on the Board of Directors as well as on numerous committees including programs and education.
She has been active in many other local organizations including the Haddam Scholarship Fund, Committee on the Aging, and Charity Knitting Group. She has been Superintendent of Needlework at the Chester Fair and has judged other entries at local fairs.
Fred has been an active member of the Haddam Shad Museum and is one of the top volunteers who got the museum back up and running this year. His knowledge of the Connecticut River and shad fishing is indispensable, and his fish tales will keep the audience spell bound.
Retired from Connecticut Yankee Power Plant, Fred has contributed to the community in many ways, particularly as a Life Member of the Haddam Volunteer Fire Department. They both are life members of the VFW Auxiliary.
Both Beth and Fred are passionate about local history and have supported and promoted the historical society and community in many different ways over the years. We thank them for their time, talents, and devotion to the community.
Photo above provided by Haddam Historical Society. Front Row L to R: Fred and Beth Hartke
Back Row L to R: Derek Collins (HHS Board), Bill Gresham (HHS Board), Lindamae Peck (2025 Founders Day Awardee), Sue DeCarli (HHS Board), and Gloria Gorton (HHS Board).
