Portland Historical Society, Inc.

10/14/2026

Just a reminder that TOMORROW, October 15, is the day when you will need to use your Vega password along with your library barcode to sign into your Libby account. Visit our website to access the library catalog and set a new password. For any questions or issues, please reach out to us at 860-342-6770.

10/13/2026

Kickoff!
The kickoff of the reconstruction of the 1821 Gildersleeve store - to include the reconstruction of the historic floors, walls, windows and doors - was on October 8. The store is at 492 Main Street, behind our museum. Members of the Society were joined by our builders: Bordonaro Masonry, and Kronenberger & Sons Restoration; architect Mark Aldieri, Michael Pelton - Portland First Selectman, Jim Tripp - Selectman, Preservation Connecticut, and many others. Stay tuned for updates! Completion of the weathertight shell is expected by the end of the year, with the interior to be completed in the new year. The Society wants to thank all the supporters who have donated generously to this project. Thank you to Terry Grady for all the pictures he took!

10/13/2026

Created by the BOS by resolution on June 3, 2020, consisting of 7 regular members with 2 alternates. They are charged with establishing a program with the Partners that will be committed to learning and expanding the understanding of racial equity in our community; and create with the Partners at le...

10/13/2026

10/13/2026

Save the Date!
Wangunk Presentation - Sunday October 25
On Sunday, Oct. 25, from 2-4 pm, at the Portland Waverly Center, there will be a presentation about the indigenous inhabitants of the Portland riverfront area, The Wangunk People. The talk is co-sponsored by the Brownstone Quorum and The Portland Historical Society, and will be presented by noted Wangunk Elder and
Historian Gary “Red Oak” O’Neil. A display table will feature artifacts, photos, and other items related to the Wangunk Culture. Information on the new Wangunk Memorial stone to be installed at Portland Riverfront Park will also be on display.
Refreshments will be served.

10/13/2026

10/12/2026

If you missed the reception with current library artist Kyle Bright Star O'Neil, stop by the library on Sunday, October 18 to hear a talk presented by her father Gary Red Oak O'Neil on Kyle's artistic journey and enjoy her beautiful work!