Middletown'sWadsworthMansion open-air market, festival coming
Aug. 7—The much-anticipated family-friendly event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug 27 at 421 Wadsworth St.
In the late 19th century and early 20th century, Col. Clarence Wadsworth planted thousands of trees and shrubs to "transform pastures and orchards into a naturalistic woodland setting around the mansion," according to the mansion website.
"Dense nursery plantations were established and mature specimen trees were planted," it said.
John Charles Olmsted, (Sept. 14, 1852, to Feb. 24, 1920) of Olmsted and Sons Landscape Architects of Boston, played a major role in the design of the estate.
The building is owned by the city of Middletown and operated by the Long Hill Estate Authority.
"Constructed at the turn of the century, its style is reflective of the gilded age when the art of entertaining was perfected. Gracious in its historic elegance and exclusive in its setting, the mansion has gained its reputation as the "gem of Middletown," the mansion site says.
Some 80 Connecticut grown and made vendors will sell their wares, with some offering samples. All slots have been filled.
Visitors can enjoy walking along the long and narrow lawn, flanked by crafts people, produce and fruit booths, fine artists' wares, beauty products, jewelry, soaps, breads, pottery and much more. There are also walking trails to discover.
"It will be a day to discover the Wadsworth Mansion, enjoy music and art, and experience the tradition of shopping at an open-air market," according to the website.
From 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the Middletown Symphonic Band will play, followed by Austin James and the Nomads, led by the Hartford native, multi-instrumentalist and recording artist whose music is influenced by folk, soul and rock, according to his website.
Activities will include an all-day kindness rock painting station, and the mansion will be open for self-guided tours.
This year's array of participants include 24 Peace, with screen-printed eco fashion; A Little Pink Elephant's fused glass; Adelbrook Bark-ery's dog toys, treats and accessories; Ancient Gardens Hypertufa's garden art, planters and mushrooms; Beluga Bath Co. handmade bath bombs; Bella's Faces face painting; and Killam & Bassett Farmstead's fresh, Connecticut-grown fruits, veggies, jam, eggs, corn on the cob, pickles and more.
Others are Cold Goats Farm, selling mohair and wool blend yarns, roving and knit items; Debbye Rosin Expressions Pottery; and Diamond in the Rough Beauty hand-poured soap.
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Parking is located a short distance away at Wilbert Snow School, 299 Wadsworth St.; Mercy High School, 1740 Randolph Road; and Vinal High School, 60 Daniels St. A shuttle will run between the mansion and schools.
Mansion spaces are reserved for the handicapped and families with strollers, according to the nonprofit organization. Well-behaved, leashed dogs will be permitted outdoors.
The event is sponsored in part by the Middletown Commission on the Arts. For information, visit wadsworthmansion.com.
