Revolutionary War history comes to life at Central conference

By Savanna Yelling ’25

Central welcomed historians, faculty, and community members to campus on March 20 for the “CT 1776: A Revolutionary Event” conference, a two-day program examining Connecticut’s role in the American Revolution as part of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Held in Alumni Hall, the conference brought together scholars and public historians to explore the political and cultural history of the state. Through a series of themed sessions incorporating readings and musical elements, the program traced the progression of the Revolutionary War.

The program was organized into three acts: “The Dawn of Liberty,” “The Scourge of War,” and “The Long Battle for Independence” guiding attendees through Connecticut’s role throughout the war. 

“The CT 1776 conference was beyond successful,” said Matthew Warshauer, professor of History at Central and organizer of the conference. “We had full registration and an amazing array of speakers and presentations that captured the spirit of 1776 and the push for independence.”

The conference speakers discussed well-known events and lesser-explored Revolutionary War stories. There were discussions on the state’s militia and troops as well as the participation of Indigenous people in key moments of the war. Sessions also explored social and cultural dimensions such as the role of clergy and women’s experiences in war.

Along with presentations, featured organizations from across the state, including historical societies, museums, and preservation groups, staffed tables in Alumni Hall and offered opportunities for continued engagement with Connecticut history.
The exhibit hall allowed attendees to connect with historians and organizations from the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History, Connecticut Freedom Trail, and America 250 Connecticut among other partners.

“We’ve received rave reviews from those who attended, commenting that the conference was ‘the pinnacle of experiential learning,’ with many stating that CT 1776 was ‘the best history conference I’ve ever attended,’” Warshauer said. 

HE also noted that the event also reflects a broader effort to bring historical scholarship into public conversation as the United States approaches its semiquincentennial.

“Events like this continue to place the History Department and its Public History Program at the center of state and local history in Connecticut,” Warshauer said.

The conference is part of a broader effort to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, with events like “CT 1776” designed to connect local history with the national story.