KENT, Conn.—Marge Smith, curator of the Kent Historical Society, and Denny Mantegani, KHS volunteer, will introduce a new project at the Kent Senior Center on Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 11 a.m. in the continuing series of the “People and Places of Kent” programs co-sponsored by the senior center and historical society.
“As part of our 2027 theme–“Voices of Kent”—KHS is working to reinvigorate our oral history program,” noted Smith. “We want to collect the history of our town through the voices of people who live or have lived here.
“The Kent Senior Center at Templeton Farm is the perfect place to begin,” she continued. “Some of our elders have been here all their lives, while others have more recently joined us. We think that collecting each other’s stories would be a great way for residents to connect, as well as to help us document Kent’ s ongoing evolution.”
The Aug. 19 program will introduce the project and feature mini interviews by Smith and Mantegani. “We’re gathering ideas and want to know what you think. Our mini interviews will show how easy it is,” adds Smith.
The “People and Places of Kent” programs are now held quarterly at the Kent Senior Center. Prior programs have included a presentation by Elissa Potts when the Fife ‘n’ Drum celebrated its 50th anniversary; the history of Davis IGA by Gary Davis, and others.
The Nov. 18 program will feature remembrances of early Templeton Farm residents and board members as the senior housing facility celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Participants are encouraged to share ideas for future programs.
The Kent Senior Center is located in the Templeton Farm Barn at 16 Swift Lane. Programs are open to seniors 62 and older and their caregivers. Advance registration is requested by calling 860 927-1586 or emailing ssassist@townofkentct.gov.
