WHS proudly presents , “Westport School Days 1703-Present” in our Sheffer Gallery. This exhibithighlights the evolution of formal education in Westport.  The story begins with the 1650 Code of Connecticut which describes the educational requirements for the parishes in Connecticut.  Beginning with the first formal teacher in Green’s Farms in 1703; the exhibit will chronicle what the eight public and several private schools of Westport were like.

There will be a progression map from 1858-2016 detailing each school’s earliest location and development.   A brief history of the benefactors who initiated new schools, memorabilia, and early photos will also be displayed.   Group photos of student classes from the late nineteenth century to the present day will also be highlighted.

 This comprehensive exhibit will include lively tours of Westport’s own Adams Academy, on North Morningside Drive, which was built in 1830 as a private school, and shows you an actual one-room schoolhouse which exemplifies early education in our community. Westport Historical Society hopes this exhibit will bring back many fond memories, as well as focus on Westport’s growth as an exceptional center for learning.

The Mollie Donovan Gallery will feature Katherine Ross:  Artist and Art Educator

Katherine exhibits her work throughoutFairfield County and New York and has won numerous awards for her work. Ms. Ross has permanent pieces at the Westport Historical Society, Westport’s Permanent Art Collection, The Smithsonian Institute, and her collaborate work with students are hanging in several of the Westport Schools and at Longshore Park. She has been teaching art for 20 years, privately and as an artist in residence at numerous schools, museums, and centers in the Northeast.  Katherine has been involved in the Westport Arts Education as committee member and has chaired several town-wide art committee