History came alive in Suffield on June 5, 2026, as over 125 community members gathered at the Hatheway Barn to experience a unique Declaration of Independence and Revolutionary History exhibit created by local students. The event, a partnership among Suffield Public Schools, the Suffield Historical Society, and Connecticut Landmarks, was held in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
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Cadence Leach, SHS Senior, designed this impressive mural.
The exhibit showcased the creativity and historical research of students from across the district. Visitors explored a variety of student-designed displays, including artwork, a Liberty Tree installation, a detailed timeline of Revolutionary-era events, biographies of Suffield patriots, poetry inspired by the Declaration of Independence, and imaginative “breakup letters” written to King George III from the perspective of the American colonists. Students from across the district also participated in a community reading of the Declaration of Independence, which was recorded and aired as a special video presentation.
Spaulding School students’ mural was a beautiful collaborative effort.
Visitors enjoyed a taste of history thanks to Suffield Middle School students, who prepared traditional foods from the Revolutionary era. Samples included johnnycake squares, soldier’s knapsack mix, molasses cookies, apple slump, and liberty tea. Popular 18th-century lawn games added to the immersive experience, while a walking tour led by volunteers from the Suffield Historical Society provided additional insight into the town’s Revolutionary past.
Two large-scale murals created to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary served as centerpiece attractions. One mural was designed by Suffield High School senior Cadence Leach, while the second was a collaborative effort by students at Spaulding Elementary School, with each student contributing to the finished work.
Suffield Public Schools extends its appreciation to the students, staff members, and community partners whose dedication made this exhibit possible. Special thanks goes to the Suffield Historical Society and Connecticut Landmarks for their collaboration in creating this memorable celebration.
The exhibit will remain on display throughout the summer at Academy Hall in West Suffield. Residents are encouraged to visit on Saturdays between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m. Updated information can be found on the Suffield Historical Society’s website and Facebook page. We hope to see you there!