Category: News & Events

Join us for a local event in conjunction with Gallery 53 to ring in the holiday season. Come on down and complete scavenger hunts for prize drawings or to shop for just the right gift for the history buff in your life. We look forward to seeing you there. The event is free.

November 20th 6:30 at 41 West Man Street

Continuing our series on immigration to Meriden, this lecture by Ruth Borsuk explores the history of Jewish immigration to Meriden, tracing the journey of families who arrived primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries from Eastern Europe in search of religious freedom and economic opportunity and the ways they contributed to the city’s cultural and economic growth and  highlights how the Jewish community shaped Meriden’s identity while preserving their traditions in a rapidly changing America. Reserve your seat HERE.

Who’s Buried Where and Why Do We Care?

The last tour of this year’s w series will run rain or shine.   The tour starts promptly at 1:00 at the entrance to the cemetery and take approximately two hours.  Our tours are refreshed every year so plan on meeting new “residents” even if you have been on a tour to a cemetery previously.

Oct 26    B’nai Abraham   113 Corrigan Avenue

While the cost is free, we would appreciate your donations.  The suggested donation is $10 per tour and can be done on-line when your reserve your seat by clicking on the name above.

Thursday September 25th 6:30-7:30 41 W Main Street Meriden

Welcome to another chapter in our ongoing lecture series about the immigrants whose rich diversity made Meriden!  Between 1840 and 1870, nearly 1 million French speakers emigrated from Canada to the northeast United States and formed “Little Canada” communities, one of of which was Meriden.  Join Martha Colaresi (née Benoît) as she explores the heritage, trials, tribulations and triumphs that shape the story of French Canadians crossing the border, finding their way to Meriden, and becoming Franco-American.  Register HERE.

Thursday August 28 6:30-7:30 Meriden Museum & History Center, 41 West Main Street

Italian immigration has played a significant role in shaping the cultural, economic, and social fabric of Meriden, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this lecture, we will explore the major waves of Italian migration, the push and pull factors that drove millions to leave their homeland, and the experiences of Italian immigrants as they settled in Meriden. From the challenges of assimilation to the preservation of cultural identity, we will examine how Italian communities left a lasting legacy that continues to be felt today. Register HERE.

Thursday July 24 6:30-7:30 Meriden Museum & History Center ,41 West Main Street

xplore the rich history and enduring legacy of Polish immigrants who begin settling in the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We will discuss why they come to Meriden because of the  opportunities in the booming silver and manufacturing industries,  taking on physically demanding jobs while forming tight-knit communities centered around churches such as St. Stanislaus. The lecture also emphasizes the role of Polish cultural traditions, language, and mutual aid societies in preserving identity and fostering resilience amidst discrimination and economic hardship. Through  personal stories, and historical documents, the presentation paints a vivid picture of how Polish Americans helped shape Meriden’s cultural and economic landscape.  Reserve your seat HERE.

Thursday, June 26 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM 41 W Main St, Meriden, CT 06451, USA

Join us for another chapter in our ongoing lecture series sharing the story of the  diverse communities that made Meriden. This evening, Erika Slocumb from the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center focuses on African Americans as they arrive in the New World. By 1775 Connecticut had roughly 5100 slaves. Wallingford, which included Meriden and Cheshire at the time of the Revolutionary War had many enslaved people. Often overlooked stories of African -Americans in early Meriden will be shared. Reseve you seat HERE.

41 W Main Street Thursday March 27th at 6:30 PM

Join us for an engaging lecture and  discussion exploring the rich history and impact of Irish immigration in Meriden, Connecticut. This event will delve into the challenges, triumphs, and cultural contributions of the Irish community in the city, from its early settlers to its lasting legacy.  The evening will feature the history of Irish immigration in Meriden, including its social, economic, and cultural dimensions from the Ancient Order of the Hibernians, local people of Irish descent and museum staff. Please register HERE.

We invite you to arrive early and explore our new West Gallery, currently featuring the exhibition “Polished Perspectives: The Art of International Silver“.

Thursday February 27th at 6:30 at 41 W Main

Join Martha Colaresi as she shares her research on the role of religious sanctuary in the founding of Meriden; the roots of its founding faiths; and the impact of faith-based institutions on the cultural diversity of Meriden. 

The presentation will explore spiritual and social traditions that sustained our immigrant communities, the evolution of their sacred spaces, and their significant role in shaping our city’s rich history.Register here. Come early and see our new West Gallery, Polished Perspectives: The Art of International Silver. The new gallery is truly beautiful.

Thursday January 23rd at 6:30 at 41 Main Street

Step back in time to uncover the origins of Meriden, Connecticut. This compelling lecture from the Wallingford Historical Society  takes you on a journey through the town’s earliest days, revealing how its Colonial roots shaped the vibrant community we see today.

Discover the stories of the settlers, the challenges they faced, and the spirit of innovation and perseverance that built Meriden from the ground up. Whether you’re a local history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, this event offers a fascinating glimpse into the foundations of a remarkable town. Register here. As an added bonus, we will have a sneak preview of our new West Gallery, Polished Perspectives: The Art of International Silver, for all those who attend. The new gallery is truly beautiful.