On November 13, 2024, the Ridgefield Historical Society hosted a poignant Witness Stones Installation Ceremony at the Scott House, honoring Ann, an enslaved individual who was owned by David Scott in this house and whose story has long been silent. The ceremony, part of the Witness Stones Project, a collaboration of the Ridgefield Public Schools and Ridgefield Historical Society, brought together students, educators, and community members to restore Ann’s humanity and recognize her contributions to Ridgefield’s history.
Dr. Annie Tucci, Ridgefield Public Schools Humanities Supervisor, served as the master of ceremonies. The event began with an instrumental prelude of Amazing Grace, performed by the talented Wind Trio musicians: Richard Zhuang, Isabella Morell, and Georgia Loomis. Dr. Susie Da Silva, Superintendent of Ridgefield Public Schools, and Liz Lightfoot, of the Witness Stones Project, delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of confronting historical injustices and fostering inclusion. Ridgefield Historical Society Executive Director, Stephen Bartkus, highlighted the collaborative efforts of students to uncover and commemorate the lives of enslaved individuals in the community.
Students from East Ridge and Scotts Ridge Middle Schools were introduced by their eight grade teachers and presented their research recounting Ann’s life through primary documents and historical analysis. Anna Santarelli introduced Supriti Saravana. Mike Hougasian, introduced MaryEliza Holmes, Holland Meyer. Keira Kowalczyk and Tom Broderick introduced Stella Reilley and Anna Carboni. Their remarks underscored the themes of resilience, agency, and the systemic dehumanization Ann endured. A vocal group consisting of Casey Coughlin, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Gabriella Memoli, Isabella Morell, Supriti Saravana, and Charley Tanana performed the spiritual Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, adding a moving interlude to the program.
The unveiling of Ann’s Witness Stone by Stella Reilley and Holland Meyer was a moment of solemn reflection, marking her rightful place in Ridgefield’s history. The ceremony concluded with a string quartet’s rendition of Deep River, performed by Maxim Curt, Supriti Saravana, Bianca Lopez, and Emmett Boyer, leaving attendees inspired by the power of remembrance and education.
The Witness Stones Project serves as a vital initiative to address the historical erasure of enslaved persons in New England. Through research, education, and public ceremonies, it restores the narratives of those who shaped our communities, fostering empathy and understanding across generations.
