Submitted by Elizabeth Malloy, Executive Director, Haddam Historical Society
(July 7, 2023) — On June 25, 2023 the Haddam Historical Society honored retiring Education Coordinator Sarah Neal and retiring Board President Terry Smith at a reception held in the gardens of the Thankful Arnold House Museum.
Sarah Neal (above, right) has been at the helm of our scout, camp, and education programs for eighteen years and has been a vital part of sharing our community’s history and heritage with area young people and students. Thousands of HK students have benefited from her award- winning education programs over the years from 2nd grade through 7th grade, learning about local history to the Civil War.
Not only has she created school offerings that are curriculum-based, but she has brought history to life in a meaningful and enjoyable manner. She created our popular summer experience “A Week in the Life of an Early American Child,” which is a fun-filled week of chores, crafts, games, animals and cooking from the early 19th century. We wish Sarah a joyful and peaceful retirement enjoying her growing family.
Terry Smith (above, left) has been active in the organization since he and his wife Carol first moved here thirty-two years ago. Terry has served on the board multiple times, most recently as President. He has been instrumental in organizing and supporting the Connecticut Spring Antiques Show and has enthusiastically been involved in almost every activity, program and event for the past three decades. Terry has done it all, from making kites with 5th graders at HK Intermediate School, to manning the HHS booth at the Haddam Neck Fair, to putting up and taking down tents, chairs and tables. He is a man of many talents, and we will miss his leadership and enthusiasm. However, both Sarah and Terry plan to remain involved in the society and support our mission to collect, preserve, interpret and promote the history and heritage of Haddam.
Photo by Elizabeth Malloy
