'Tales and Ales' July 9 at Historic Tavern on the Town Green

Editor's note: The following news release was received from the Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road in Fairfield.

The Fairfield Museum and History Center (www.fairfieldhs.org) will bring another aspect of Fairfield’s history to life at the historic Sun Tavern during a lighthearted Tavern Night on Saturday, July 9 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The event, an evening of “tales and ales,” will honor Fairfielders Peter and Carleen Kunkel for their many contributions to the community and will feature live music and a special Sun Tavern ale from Southport Brewing Company.

Tavern Night, which also will include costumed interpreters to add a live touch of history to the evening, encourages everyone to enjoy a celebration of this landmark tavern, which burned to the ground during the American Revolution, was rebuilt in 1780 and possibly played host to George Washington in October of 1789.

The tavern was operated by Fairfielder Samuel Penfield until the early 19th century, circa 1815, and was sold in 1818 to Reverend Nathaniel Hewitt and his wife.

In other accounts from Museum historians, John Adams wrote in his account book in September 1775, "Paid at Penfield’s of Fairfield." Another account indicates that the Masons may have had some of their meetings at the tavern.

According to the Museum’s Director of Development, Robin Valovich, “This special evening, celebrating two of Fairfield’s favorite people, is open to everyone  interested in seeing how the tavern looked in the 1790s and hearing colorful stories about its history. The music will add to the fun."

“Since the kitchen of the Sun Tavern closed a few centuries ago and we won’t be serving dinner that evening, the Museum has made arrangements with many downtown Fairfield restaurants to offer a 15 percent discount on dinner to our Tavern Night attendees.”

For details on participating restaurants or to purchase tickets to Tavern Night, go to www.fairfieldhs.org or call 203-259-1598.  Tickets are $30 if purchased prior to the event and $35 at the door.

Submitted by the Fairfield Museum and History Center