How long have you lived in Ridgefield and what brought you here?
We’ve lived here for five years after living in Armonk, NY for 35 years. We downsized and moved to a condo. My wife Mary Pat drew a circle on a map which showed easy driving to various relatives and Ridgefield was the only town we considered. Having driven through these historic and beautiful streets many times and having sampled the excellent restaurants, it was an easy decision.
When did you first get involved with the Ridgefield Historical Society?
I started volunteering in collections and archiving about a year ago.
Have you always been a history person?
Yes and that’s what drew me to this organization. After retiring from my law firm I did go back to school and took enough college History courses to qualify me to teach Social Studies. Being a bit long in the tooth, I never taught but I love history.
What is your area of focus on the Historical Society Board?
I volunteer every week in collections and archiving with Betsy Reid, the Collections Manager. I catalogue and enter the article, object etc. into the computer program. As I see it, this process is the foundation of the organization’s mission. We preserve and I’m proud to do it. That being said, it’s all hands on deck, and I contribute wherever I can.
What do you enjoy about the Historical Society?
The people. I received a warm welcome and it continues on a daily basis.
Do you have a favorite era of Ridgefield history?
I’m drawn to the early 1900’s, probably because there is so much photography available.
Why should people care about history?
History is forever moving and changing. It’s both not fixed and yet cannot be manipulated. How many of us have siblings who witnessed the same things but tell the story in a whole different way? History informs our individual behavior as well as the larger society.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not preserving history?
My wife and I are avid golfers and play at Ridgefield’s public course. We are readers and travelers as well.
