Spirit(s) of Higganum Historic House Tour Teaser

On Saturday, October 5, 2013 the Haddam Historical Society will host “The Spirit(s) of Higganum, a historic house tour of six architecturally and historically significant  homes in the spirited and delightful village of Higganum from 10 am to 4 pm.  In addition the historic Higganum Cemetery will be a highlighted stop on the tour and the tour headquarters at the Higganum Congregational Church will also be open for tours. Featured houses are located along Saybrook Road and Maple Avenue.

The Russell Gladwin Homestead is a charmingly restored Federal style house constructed in 1825 which retains many original features.  Russell Gladwin was a ship carpenter and built the house shortly after his marriage to Susan Dickinson. Here they raised a dozen children including a number of prominent Higganum citizens.. Russell, who was instrumental in the effort of Higganum to secede from the town of Haddam in the 1850s, lived here until his death in 1874. Harriet and Warren Smith resided in the house during the mid-20th century and Mrs. Smith once rented a portion of the upstairs to returning WWII veterans. Highlights of the interior include the recently renovated kitchen and the original fireplaces which display curved brick returns. Some elements of the house are reminiscent of a ship including the beautiful curved ceiling in the master bedroom and the front doorbell. The landscaped grounds feature a stone patio and wonderful gardens.

Tickets cost $25 in advance and $30 the day of the tour. The tour headquarters and check in is at the Higganum Congregational Church at 23 Parsonage Road, Higganum. Participants will pick up their programs and directions. A gourmet boxed lunch for $12 will be provided by the Cooking Company of Haddam and will be available by reservation. The lunches must be pre-ordered. Call 860-345-2400 for selections and ticket reservations.