Jul 2, 2007
Battle-scarred tavern
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The Keeler Tavern bears a scar of the 1777 Battle of Ridgefield: there’s a cannonball that’s still embedded in a beam on the building’s north wall. It’s a great way to bring home the events of April 27, 1777, when the Battle of Ridgefield was fought down Main Street, with the king’s troops aiming for the tavern, a known hangout for patriots. Special exhibits from the museum’s collections are installed in the Cass Gilbert Dining Room and in an upstairs room. The tavern was later the home of architect Cass Gilbert, who gave the town its famous fountain. The tavern became a museum in the late 1960s, thanks to the fund-raising efforts of a group of dedicated volunteers. Hours are Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 1-4, with last tour at 3:30. The museum hosts a chamber music concert series and and an annual week of Christmas luncheons. There are special events including a summer day camp for children entering grades 2-5. Museum admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, students, and $2 for under 12 years.
Details
The Keeler Tavern Museum is south of Ridgefield’s commercial center at 132 Main Street (Route 35). For more information call 203-438-5485 or visit www.keelertavernmuseum.org.
© Copyright 2008 by Hersam Acorn Newspapers
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