The New Canaan Museum and Historical Society is stepping out with a big name change and a big party. Step into Summer on June 1 from 6-10 pm will be a wonderful opportunity to see the fresh face of the campus and enjoy a fabulous evening with live music by DogHouse, a whiskey and beer tasting in the Tavern of the 1764 Hanford-Silliman House, and catering by Libby Cooke. In addition, guests can preview the exhibition Shoes, designed and curated by Board member Donna Gorman, which celebrates shoes from the Museum’s extensive clothing and textile collection, as well as the history of the shoe industry in New Canaan.

“We live in an historic, beautiful Town and the New Canaan Museum and Historical Society is the center of that history,” says Board member and event co-chair Amy Freyre. “We wanted an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate how special this place is.” The format of the evening will allow patrons to explore several museum buildings and both gallery spaces, participate in a live auction of unique items, plus mingle with food, drinks and dancing under a tent on the Great Lawn. “It will be lovely, informal and fun,” says Freyre.

The addition of “Museum” to the 1889 organization’s name was recently approved by a unanimous vote of the Board of Governors after a lengthy deliberation process. “We have amazing permanent collections – clothing and textiles, maps, paintings by Silvermine artists, pewter, Rogers Groups of sculpture by John Rogers – plus eight historic buildings,” explains Executive Director Nancy Geary. “We want the community to think of us as a place to return to again and again to enjoy all that is here and to see exhibitions that are both exciting and educational. That is what a great museum offers.”

The New Canaan Museum and Historical Society is a member-supported organization and receives no money from the Town. Step into Summer is this year’s major fundraiser. Tickets are $150 per person and can be purchased online at nchistory.org or by calling 203-966-1776 ext. 2.

Photo: Wendy Pratt and Sarah Casey, both members of the Step into Summer Host Committee.