Pirate Days

Pirates are back for 2025! Come out and explore an encampment where you’ll experience the life of a pirate. Stay for ship making, racing, crafts, and walking the plank like a pirate! Spend some time listening to stories of real-life pirates like Captain Kidd who visited Connecticut in 1690 and is said to have left behind treasure near modern day Milford, CT. Entering the pirate camp on the grounds of one of New England’s oldest dwellings, visitors will discover games, children’s toys, and maritime storytelling with Big Bear Trading Company and Wedges of Time. Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Experience 18th-century chocolate-making with Robert Lecce of Pewter Pot Fine Spiced Chocolates. After a demonstration of colonial chocolate making techniques, guests will be invited to enjoy samples of chocolate and hot cocoa, which will pair perfectly with samples from Wedges of Time, who will hold historical tea and coffee-making demonstrations. In addition to enjoying a treasure-trove of products and listening to stories of real-life pirates and infamous buried treasure, join Beth-Ann Vogt as she showcases her expertise in traditional basket weaving and textile spinning. Discover the techniques of how Erich and Janice Steinhagen of Steinhagen Pottery create their reproduction colonial pottery during a live demonstration. From the pottery wheel to the forge, join Scott Weeks as he demonstrates historical blacksmith techniques. Register for Saturday Register for Sunday Advance registration suggested, but walk-ups always welcome! Free admission; donations support restoration and programming at Hempsted Houses. If you have any questions, contact [email protected]. CTL Members, sign in to our ticketing system to access your benefits.