April 5, 1814 is an important date in Sweden’s history. It’s the date that residents gathered at the home of Reuben Stickney on the corner of Lake and Swamp Roads to hold the first official Town Meeting of the Town of Sweden.
In 2014, the Town of Sweden will celebrate its bicentennial – paying tribute to 200 years of agricultural, industrial, academic, recreational and philanthropic achievements. From a tiny community of 140 electors (free males of voting age) in 1814 to a population exceeding 14,000 in the 2010 census, the Town of Sweden has grown, prospered and retained its rural charm.
The Town has launched a Bicentennial page on its website, www.townofsweden.org, that will keep residents up-to-date on the many activities planned throughout 2014. Major events include:
•January 3-31 — Historic Sweden Images — exhibit at Seymour Library
•February 1 — Skate into the Next Century — outdoors at Town Park
•March 8 — 200 Years of Historic Architecture — Community Center
•April 11-13 — 200 Years of Quilt Making — Senior Center
Reenactment of 1st Town Meeting TBA
•May 4 — Sweden Historic Home Bus Tour — various locations
•May 10 — Milo Starks Historic Marker Dedication — Ashley Allen home
•June 14 — Antique Car Show & Strawberry Social — Farmers Museum
•July 3-6 — Old Home Weekend — former residents welcomed back
•July 3 — Parade and Fireworks — Lake Road/Community Center
•July 4 — Celebration at Morgan Manning House
•August 2 — Sweden Movie Night — Farmers Museum
•September 20 — Harvest Festival & 5K Race — Farmers Museum
•September 27 — Historic Barn Tour — Farmers Museum
•October — Sweden Cemetery Tours — TBA
•November — Bicentennial Play — TBA
•December 6 — Formal Dinner Dance — New York RoomIn addition to the website, the Town will be promoting the events through the Town newsletter, the Suburban News and various news outlets. Information will be available at the Town Hall, Community Center and Senior Center.
From agriculture to recreation, education to community spirit, Sweden is a place people love to live, work, shop, play and learn. “Join us as we mark our 200th year and celebrate all the elements that make us uniquely Sweden,” organizers say.
Provided information
9/22/13
