Venture Smith Outdoor Exhibit Opening
272 Saybrook Road, Higganum
The Haddam Historical Society is honored to host Venture Smith: American an international outdoor traveling exhibit on the grounds of the former Haddam Elementary School at 272 Saybrook Road, Higganum, CT from April 26, 2025 to June 8, 2025.
The display was created by the Documenting Venture Smith Project and the Wilberforce Institute at the University of Hull, UK. It tells the story of Venture Smith, one of Haddam’s most remarkable and important residents, who was born in Africa, sold into slavery, served masters in both New York and Connecticut and was ultimately able to buy his freedom and that of his family. They settled in Haddam Neck where Venture owned over 100 acres and became a prosperous farmer and fisherman. He was determined and industrious individual who believed that “freedom is a privilege which nothing else can equal.” It is a story that inspires and provides hope in the fight for human dignity and equal rights.
The opening ceremony is Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 1 pm near the HES playground and Haddam Shad Museum.
For additional information please contact the Haddam Historical Society at 860-345-2400 or contact@haddamhistory.org