Shelton History Center archive photo depicts War Games of August 1912

The War Games of August 1912 were probably the largest ever held on the East Coast.

War Games were scenarios that simulated a hostile invasion so that the army could practice and prepare to defend the country.

The Blue Army marched into Shelton on Aug.10 to defend the bridges across the Housatonic River.

This picture from our archives at Shelton History Center depicts the event.

Photograph by Helen Jones.

This is shared from the Shelton History Center Facebook page.

'Turnback Tuesday' features arc lamp over Main Street, Derby

Turnback Tuesday views Main Street in a different "light."

This image is of Main Street, Derby looking west. In the top center of the photo is an enclosed arc lamp hanging over the street.

Arc lighting was the earliest type of electric illuminant used in the late 19th/early 20th century. The light in the lamp is a spark or electric arc through the air between two carbon rods.

These lights were not only used on Main Street but on Derby Avenue as well.

Thank you to Valley Lighting for their assistance with this research.

Thanks goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.

'Turnback Tuesday' (on Wednesday) features Birmingham Hotel in downtown Derby

Turnback Tuesday visits the Birmingham Hotel located on the corner of Elizabeth and Third Streets. 
This photograph was taken by Joshua H. Beal (1832-1902) of 16 Beekman St., New York, N.Y. in the 1870s. 
The picture is an Albumen print on paper with a cardboard mount. 
Look at the care taken by Mr. Beal to stage and produce this amazing photo. 
The carriages, workers, children, guests, and businessmen really give you a history of Derby.

Thanks as always to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week!