Maritime Music and Revolutionary War Camp Reenactment!
EHS is proud to once again partner with and host musicians of the Connecticut Sea Music Festival at Pratt House! This is the fifth year of this great event in Essex which shares maritime history through songs, storytelling, and demonstrations.
Join us on Connecticut Open House Day: Saturday, June 13 from 11:00-4:00 pm at Pratt House for reenactors, music, and local history! Attendance is FREE, open to the public, and appropriate for all ages. (please note that weaponry will be on display)
SPECIAL THIS YEAR: Two Revolutionary War Reenactor Groups!
As part of the town-wide Essex Celebrates America 250 celebrations, Essex Historical Society will host the 5th Connecticut Regiment of Revolutionary War Reenactors AND the Second Regiment of Light Dragoons on the grounds of Pratt House.
About the Reenactors:
The 5th Connecticut Regiment
Since the 1970s, the 5th Connecticut Regiment has brought the American Revolution to life through a dedicated community of history enthusiasts from all walks of life. Beyond traditional line infantry, the unit portrays a vibrant cross-section of 18th-century society: from the elite Light Infantry "special forces" and formidable British Marines to the local Militia and the essential Camp Followers and Civilians who supported the war effort. Committed to historical accuracy and continuous research, the Regiment offers a multi-faceted look at the people, military and civilian alike, who shaped our nation’s independence.
2nd Regiment of Light Dragoons—Sheldon’s Horse
Established in 1978, 2nd Regiment of Light Dragoons is dedicated to bringing the American Revolution to life through high-quality public education and immersive storytelling. As a unit recognized by both the State of Connecticut and the 106th U.S. Congress as the official continuation of the original historic regiment, the pride themselves on historical integrity and scholarly depth. Their programs—ranging from engaging school shows and academic lectures to vivid living history and first-person interpretations—are led by certified teachers who prioritize rigorous research in every impression. Whether portraying iconic historical figures or demonstrating the daily realities of the 18th century, the Dragoons strive to provide our audience with an authentic and educational window into our nation’s founding.
Details for the Weekend:
Saturday & Sunday: Music, Stories, and Tours
Location: Pratt House & Barn (19 West Avenue, Essex, CT)
While you are here for the Connecticut Sea Music Festival, don't miss these highlights:
Live Performances (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Daily): The Pratt House Barn will ring with maritime melodies and storytelling. Catch the "Deckhands" and more artists to be announced!
Free Historic Tours (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Daily): Enjoy guided tours of Essex's only historic house museum. Explore the home of nine generations of blacksmiths and see what is on exhibit from EHS Collections in the Ell Gallery.
Visitor Information
Admission: Tours and encampment access are FREE; donations are welcome.
Parking: Available all weekend in the back field at Pratt House.
(Note: Please notify Essex Historical Society if you seek to leave a vehicle overnight.)
Restrooms: public portable toilets will be onsite for Festival attendees.
Pets: LEASHED four-legged friends are welcome, but please clean up after them (and yourselves).
About the Connecticut Sea Music Festival: This family-friendly weekend includes a Symposium on the Music of the Sea, free day-time workshops and concerts featuring local and regional maritime performers, a family stage, CT River sails, demonstrations of sailor skills and Irish currach rowing, a Revolutionary War reenactment and fife and drum parade, honoring America’s Semi-Quincentennial celebration, a hymn sing, and late night pub sings. Evening concerts at the CT River Museum are ticketed events. Ticket sales begin April 11.