Literary Landmark: Wethersfield - Elizabeth George Speare

Dedicated: March 26, 2009

Partner: Wethersfield Public Library

The town of Wethersfield, Conn., was the setting for Elizabeth George Speare’s novel The Witch of Blackbird Pond, which won the 1959 Newbery Medal. Speare lived in Wethersfield when she wrote the book, which tells the story of how young Kit Tyler, after leaving her privileged life in Barbados, struggles to adjust to the strict culture of 1687 Puritan Wethersfield and faces accusations of witchcraft from the community.

On March 26, 2009, Wethersfield Public Library designated the town as a Literary Landmark. The library hosted a program featuring Paul Courchaine, a library board member and culinary historian, who discussed food of the 17th century. The Friends of the Library prepared period refreshments using recipes provided by Courchaine. A map showing where events in the book took place in Wethersfield, created by artist Phil Lohman, was unveiled during the dedication. More than 100 people attended.