Unionville Historic District and Properties Commission Meeting Recap – August 1, 2024
By Jack Beckett
FARMINGTON, CT—In a move that could almost be described as productive, the Unionville Historic District and Properties Commission gathered on August 1, 2024, to hammer out the details of the highly anticipated walking tour scheduled for late September. The session began promptly at 4:00 PM with the routine approval of the June 6, 2024, meeting minutes, setting the stage for what promised to be an in-depth and engaging discussion.
Main Agenda: The September Walking Tour
Safety First: Avoiding Traffic Catastrophes
Barbara, who’s been burning the midnight oil on this project, revealed an updated itinerary for the tour, which now starts at the Masonic Hall. This change comes after Lisa and Matt bravely risked life and limb crossing a busy street, only to declare it a death trap. The commission isn’t interested in adding “traffic casualties” to the historical tour’s list of highlights.
Tour Itinerary: Because History Doesn’t Have to Be Boring
The tour is now kicking off at the Masonic Hall. Participants will be whisked away on a magical journey through 14 historically significant sites. Prepare for tales of Greek Revivals, Queen Anne’s, and other architectural marvels that will make your eyes glaze over in sheer amazement. The tour will climax with a feature on Lawton’s Mill, where you can learn about the riveting world of milling in Unionville’s early days.
Preparations and Logistics
Visual Aids: For Those Who Need More Than Words
Barbara is pulling together a collection of high-quality photos and historical maps to keep participants from falling asleep. These visual aids will be displayed on laminated foam boards, ensuring they survive the tour and any unexpected weather events. If you thought maps and old photos were boring, think again—these will be the show’s stars.
Parking Drama: Where to Leave Your Precious Vehicles
In a plot twist no one saw coming, the commission secured parking spots at Stop & Shop, George’s, and CVS. With these prime locations, attendees can safely park their cars without fear of towing or angry mobs. The tour will begin at the Masonic Hall tent, where participants can gather, hydrate, and pretend they’re interested in the historical maps on display.
Promoting the Tour: Hype Machine in Full Swing
Social Media Blitz: Because Flyers Alone Don’t Cut It
Rose Planti, the town’s social media guru, will be blasting tour details all over the internet. Flyers will also be strategically placed at high-traffic locations like Stop & Shop and the library, ensuring no one can escape the walking tour hype. The commission will use SignUpGenius to manage registrations, making sure everyone who’s anyone can secure their spot.
Tour Schedule: Because Timing Is Everything
The tour will take place over two days: September 28 and 29. The schedule is as follows:
- Saturday, September 28: Tours at 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 2:30 PM.
- Sunday, September 29: Tours at 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM.
Each tour will last 90 minutes—because that’s apparently how long it takes to soak up all the historical goodness Unionville has to offer. Barbara, Lisa, Kelly, and Matt will be your tour guides, ready to enlighten you with their endless knowledge and perhaps some dry humor.
Future Initiatives: Because One Tour Isn’t Enough
More Tours and Educational Programs: Keep the Boredom Coming
The commission discussed future plans for virtual tours and educational programs, aiming to turn every resident into a walking encyclopedia of Unionville history. Who knew history could be so exciting?
Cultural District Designation: Putting Unionville on the Map
Garrett reported on efforts to designate Unionville and Farmington as cultural districts. This state initiative aims to combine history, art, and local businesses into a cultural wonderland. The application is due by October 1, so mark your calendars for the day Unionville officially becomes the cultural capital of the universe—or at least Connecticut.
Closing Remarks: Wrapping Up the Excitement
As the meeting wrapped up, there was a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. The commission’s hard work promises a walking tour that will go down in history—literally.
Acknowledgment
A big thank you to Farmington Storage for sponsoring our historical escapades. Farmington Storage, located at 155 Scott Swamp Road, is the place to go for all your storage needs. Call 860.777.4001 because supporting local businesses makes you a hero.
Stay tuned to We Are Farmington for more thrilling updates on this and other can’t-miss community events.
-JB-
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