A Day in 1762
The Day in 1762 Program began when the David Humphreys House first opened to the public on November 6, 1980. The Program was created by the Society's first Executive Director, the late Dorothy Larson. The year 1762 was chosen because David Humphreys was the same age as a contemporary fifth-grader back then.
The David Humphreys House comes alive with students role-playing the identities of actual children who lived in 1762, as they learn how to weave, spin, and prepare lunch on an open hearth. Children learn what life was like in the eighteenth century, along with our community's colorful history. The program includes outside tours of the Ansonia Historic District (weather permitting) and the David Humphreys House. Lunch is included.
Average class size is about 20-24 children. Cost: $17/student. Classes from Ansonia, Derby, Seymour, Shelton, and Oxford have reduced rates thanks to generous support of their towns.
Teacher Resources
The Derby Historical Society has several teacher resources available for sale in our gift shop, including books, toys, maps, and prints. Additionally, our Research Library has subject files and historic photographs that may be suitable for use in the classroom. Please contact our office for more information at (203) 735-1908.
Reservations & Contact Information
Please contact us at info@derbyhistorical.org or (203) 735-1908 for more information or to schedule a program.
Times & Days
All school & youth groups must make a reservation. On-site programs are scheduled Tuesday - Thursday, 9AM - 3PM. Outreach programs are available Monday - Friday. After-school, Scout, and youth programs are also available later in the day and on some Saturdays.
Chaperone Policy
We require 1 adult teacher/chaperone for every 10 students. Non-teaching chaperones are charged the program fee.
Confirmation
A written confirmation will be mailed prior to your scheduled program. In the event that you must cancel a program, change the number of students attending, or reschedule, please contact us at least one week in advance.
A Day in 1762 Sponsors
The Bruce Griffing Trust | Derby-Shelton Rotary | Seymour-Oxford Rotary | Ansonia Rotary | Valley Community Foundation
We express our appreciation to Sen. Joseph Crisco for securing special State funding for the Day in 1762 Program in 2008