Winterfest
Winterfest at the Nellie McKnight Museum, is a full day of festive fun and community spirit! Open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., the museum will be brimming with holiday cheer, beautiful decorations, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests are invited to explore the museum’s charming exhibits, take in the seasonal décor, and enjoy fellowship with neighbors and friends.
This year’s celebration features a lively Holiday Marketplace, including Nellie’s Mercantile on Main, filled with unique gifts and handcrafted items, and the Holiday Boutique, offering previously loved holiday décor at affordable prices, ready to brighten new homes.
Festivities continue outdoors with fun games, delicious treats and cozy comforts. Enjoy hot chocolate, hot apple cider, cookies, MH Bakes’ famous cupcakes, and adult beverages. Warm up by the bonfire and grab dinner from the Chick-fil-A Food Truck, on site for the event. Join one of the fun activities below.
Admission is free, and there’s truly something for everyone—shopping, food, activities, and holiday spirit in every corner. Celebrate the season with at the Nellie McKnight Museum!
Holiday Marketplace Open
Holiday Marketplace Shines at the Nellie McKnight Museum
The Nellie McKnight Museum is brimming with holiday cheer as its annual Holiday Marketplace opens for the season. This festive shopping experience brings together two beloved features—Nellie’s Mercantile and the Holiday Boutique—creating a warm, welcoming destination for finding meaningful gifts and unique treasures.
Nellie’s Mercantile is fully stocked with thoughtfully curated items, including locally crafted goods, seasonal décor, and charming gifts that celebrate Ellington’s rich heritage. Just steps away, the Holiday Boutique offers an ever-changing selection of previously loved holiday décor and vintage finds, each item waiting for a new home and a new story.
Whether you're searching for the perfect present, adding a nostalgic touch to your seasonal decorations, or simply enjoying the cozy ambiance of the historic museum, the Holiday Marketplace invites you to shop, explore, and celebrate the spirit of the season.
The Nellie McKnight Museum welcomes visitors to experience this special holiday tradition—where community, history, and the magic of the season come together.
Holiday Marketplace Open
Holiday Marketplace Shines at the Nellie McKnight Museum
The Nellie McKnight Museum is brimming with holiday cheer as its annual Holiday Marketplace opens for the season. This festive shopping experience brings together two beloved features—Nellie’s Mercantile and the Holiday Boutique—creating a warm, welcoming destination for finding meaningful gifts and unique treasures.
Nellie’s Mercantile is fully stocked with thoughtfully curated items, including locally crafted goods, seasonal décor, and charming gifts that celebrate Ellington’s rich heritage. Just steps away, the Holiday Boutique offers an ever-changing selection of previously loved holiday décor and vintage finds, each item waiting for a new home and a new story.
Whether you're searching for the perfect present, adding a nostalgic touch to your seasonal decorations, or simply enjoying the cozy ambiance of the historic museum, the Holiday Marketplace invites you to shop, explore, and celebrate the spirit of the season.
The Nellie McKnight Museum welcomes visitors to experience this special holiday tradition—where community, history, and the magic of the season come together.
R.I. Young The 1862 Diary of an Ellington School Boy
Wednesday December 17th beginning at 6:30 at the Hall Memorial Library, step back into 1862 as we proudly host an encore presentation of the long-lost R.I.Young Diary. Found deep within our archives, this remarkable first hand account form R.I. Young, a Pennsylvania student attending Edward Hall's Ellington Family School for Boys, offers a vivid, lively glimpse into daily life in Ellington more than 120 years ago. His curious wanderings sharp observations, and youthful adventures around town paint a warm and witty portrait of our community in another era. As a special holiday treat, we invite you to relax, listen and be charmed by this rare historical treasure that brings Ellington's past to life in the most beautiful way.
Holiday Marketplace Open
Holiday Marketplace Shines at the Nellie McKnight Museum
The Nellie McKnight Museum is brimming with holiday cheer as its annual Holiday Marketplace opens for the season. This festive shopping experience brings together two beloved features—Nellie’s Mercantile and the Holiday Boutique—creating a warm, welcoming destination for finding meaningful gifts and unique treasures.
Nellie’s Mercantile is fully stocked with thoughtfully curated items, including locally crafted goods, seasonal décor, and charming gifts that celebrate Ellington’s rich heritage. Just steps away, the Holiday Boutique offers an ever-changing selection of previously loved holiday décor and vintage finds, each item waiting for a new home and a new story.
Whether you're searching for the perfect present, adding a nostalgic touch to your seasonal decorations, or simply enjoying the cozy ambiance of the historic museum, the Holiday Marketplace invites you to shop, explore, and celebrate the spirit of the season.
The Nellie McKnight Museum welcomes visitors to experience this special holiday tradition—where community, history, and the magic of the season come together.
An Evening with Humbug: Sarah Whelan Brings Scrooge’s Untold Story to Life
Join us at the Nellie McKnight Museum on Friday, December 19th at 6:30 p.m. for a captivating book reading with local author Sarah Whelan, featuring her richly imagined novel Humbug: Scrooge Before the Ghosts. Set within the beautifully decorated 1812 house, this event invites guests to explore the untold story of Ebenezer Scrooge long before the fateful night portrayed in A Christmas Carol.
In Humbug, Whelan delves deep into Scrooge’s past—his passionate love affair with Jacob Marley, the heartbreaking losses that shaped him, and the crushing responsibilities that pushed him toward the cold, solitary life we think we know so well. Far from a simple miser, Scrooge emerges as a complex man: a doting uncle, beloved brother, successful businessman, and someone struggling to live authentically despite the repressive expectations of Victorian society. His journey is filled with sorrow, hard choices, resilience, love, and moments of unexpected joy. As Scrooge himself reflects, “How delightfully queer life is.”
After the reading, guests will have an opportunity to meet the author, ask questions, and purchase signed copies of Humbug. Admission is free, and light refreshments will be served. Come enjoy an evening of storytelling, conversation, and holiday warmth at the Nellie McKnight Museum.
Holiday Marketplace Open
Holiday Marketplace Shines at the Nellie McKnight Museum
The Nellie McKnight Museum is brimming with holiday cheer as its annual Holiday Marketplace opens for the season. This festive shopping experience brings together two beloved features—Nellie’s Mercantile and the Holiday Boutique—creating a warm, welcoming destination for finding meaningful gifts and unique treasures.
Nellie’s Mercantile is fully stocked with thoughtfully curated items, including locally crafted goods, seasonal décor, and charming gifts that celebrate Ellington’s rich heritage. Just steps away, the Holiday Boutique offers an ever-changing selection of previously loved holiday décor and vintage finds, each item waiting for a new home and a new story.
Whether you're searching for the perfect present, adding a nostalgic touch to your seasonal decorations, or simply enjoying the cozy ambiance of the historic museum, the Holiday Marketplace invites you to shop, explore, and celebrate the spirit of the season.
The Nellie McKnight Museum welcomes visitors to experience this special holiday tradition—where community, history, and the magic of the season come together.
Holiday Marketplace Open
Holiday Marketplace Shines at the Nellie McKnight Museum
The Nellie McKnight Museum is brimming with holiday cheer as its annual Holiday Marketplace opens for the season. This festive shopping experience brings together two beloved features—Nellie’s Mercantile and the Holiday Boutique—creating a warm, welcoming destination for finding meaningful gifts and unique treasures.
Nellie’s Mercantile is fully stocked with thoughtfully curated items, including locally crafted goods, seasonal décor, and charming gifts that celebrate Ellington’s rich heritage. Just steps away, the Holiday Boutique offers an ever-changing selection of previously loved holiday décor and vintage finds, each item waiting for a new home and a new story.
Whether you're searching for the perfect present, adding a nostalgic touch to your seasonal decorations, or simply enjoying the cozy ambiance of the historic museum, the Holiday Marketplace invites you to shop, explore, and celebrate the spirit of the season.
The Nellie McKnight Museum welcomes visitors to experience this special holiday tradition—where community, history, and the magic of the season come together.
Black Friday at the Holiday Marketplace!
Holiday Marketplace Shines at the Nellie McKnight Museum
The Nellie McKnight Museum is brimming with holiday cheer as its annual Holiday Marketplace opens for the season. This festive shopping experience brings together two beloved features—Nellie’s Mercantile and the Holiday Boutique—creating a warm, welcoming destination for finding meaningful gifts and unique treasures.
Nellie’s Mercantile is fully stocked with thoughtfully curated items, including locally crafted goods, seasonal décor, and charming gifts that celebrate Ellington’s rich heritage. Just steps away, the Holiday Boutique offers an ever-changing selection of previously loved holiday décor and vintage finds, each item waiting for a new home and a new story.
Whether you're searching for the perfect present, adding a nostalgic touch to your seasonal decorations, or simply enjoying the cozy ambiance of the historic museum, the Holiday Marketplace invites you to shop, explore, and celebrate the spirit of the season.
The Nellie McKnight Museum welcomes visitors to experience this special holiday tradition—where community, history, and the magic of the season come together.
Holiday Marketplace Open
Holiday Marketplace Shines at the Nellie McKnight Museum
The Nellie McKnight Museum is brimming with holiday cheer as its annual Holiday Marketplace opens for the season. This festive shopping experience brings together two beloved features—Nellie’s Mercantile and the Holiday Boutique—creating a warm, welcoming destination for finding meaningful gifts and unique treasures.
Nellie’s Mercantile is fully stocked with thoughtfully curated items, including locally crafted goods, seasonal décor, and charming gifts that celebrate Ellington’s rich heritage. Just steps away, the Holiday Boutique offers an ever-changing selection of previously loved holiday décor and vintage finds, each item waiting for a new home and a new story.
Whether you're searching for the perfect present, adding a nostalgic touch to your seasonal decorations, or simply enjoying the cozy ambiance of the historic museum, the Holiday Marketplace invites you to shop, explore, and celebrate the spirit of the season.
The Nellie McKnight Museum welcomes visitors to experience this special holiday tradition—where community, history, and the magic of the season come together.
Sip and Shop
Sip and Shop at Nellies
Kick off the holiday season with a cozy evening of shopping and fellowship at the Nellie McKnight Museum! Join us for our Sip and Shop event, where you can enjoy 10% off all purchases in Nellie’s Mercantile.
Browse our charming collection of locally crafted gifts, seasonal décor, and unique treasures while sipping a warm or cold beverage and enjoying the inviting atmosphere of the historic museum. It’s the perfect opportunity to check a few names off your holiday list—or find something special just for you!
Bring a friend and make it a night out in downtown Ellington.
Revolutionary War Reenactment Camp
Step back in time and experience a full day of living history at the Nellie McKnight Museum, 70 Main St. Ellington Both the 54th Regiment of Foot (British) and the Ye Old Lebanon Town Militia (American) will bring the sights, sounds, and stories of the Revolutionary War to life with an immersive reenactment camp. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy fascinating demonstrations, drills, and hands-on activities for all ages, including: British Army Field Hospital Demonstration ,Military Drills, Firearms of the 1700s, Fencing Tutorial, Mock Battle, Camp Tours, 18th-Century Soccer Matchand a Mock Trial of Deserters.
Bring a chair, settle in, and spend the day surrounded by history, humor, and hands-on fun for the whole family. Admission is free. Visit ellingtonhistsoc.org for a complete schedule of the day.
Fall Festival
The Ellington Historical Society invites the community to its annual Fall Festival at the Nellie McKnight Museum, 70 Main Street, on Saturday, September 27th. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., families can enjoy a variety of free activities, games, and crafts designed for children of all ages. Visitors can build scarecrows with provided straw, participate in seasonal crafts, and explore fun outdoor games. The festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season, connect with neighbors, and experience the charm of the museum grounds. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to join in the fall fun!
Ellington Blood on the Louisiana Bayou
Step back in time with the Ellington Historical Society as we uncover the powerful story of Ellington’s young men in their first Civil War battle—fought deep in the Louisiana bayou on April 14, 1863. In partnership with the New England Civil War Museum, this immersive presentation combines vivid storytelling, authentic letters, and rare historical insights to shed light on a little-known but harrowing moment in our town’s past. Refreshments available at the Rusty Canteen, campfire.
Barnyard Babies at Nellie McKnight Museum
Get ready for a morning of farmyard fun at the Nellie McKnight Museum! On Saturday, June 7th, from 9 a.m. to noon, the museum invites families and animal lovers of all ages to its popular Barnyard Babies Day.
Come meet an adorable lineup of baby farm animals, including piglets, lambs, goats, chicks, and a calf. This hands-on experience is a perfect opportunity for kids to get up close with some of the cutest residents of the barnyard.
While you're visiting, be sure to explore the historic 1812 house museum, which will be open for tours. This season features two exciting exhibits:
“Field of Dreams… Celebrating Ellington’s Sports History”, a tribute to the town’s athletic past, and
The Farm Exhibit, showcasing Ellington’s rich agricultural roots.
Admission is free, and all are welcome. Don’t miss this delightful start to summer at one of Ellington’s most beloved historic sites!
Vintage and Antique Markt
The Ellington Historical Society invites vendors to apply for its annual Vintage and Antique Market, set to take place on Saturday, May 3rd, at the Nellie McKnight Museum. This popular event offers a unique opportunity to showcase and sell vintage and antique items in a charming historical setting. Space is limited, so interested participants are encouraged to submit their applications early at https://form.jotform.com/250146569966167 For questions or more information email info@ellingtonhistsoc.org
It Happened in Ellington Believe it or Not
Wednesday, March 5th at the Ellington Senior Center, presented by the Ellington Historical Society.
Register at the Senior Center to reserve your spot. 860-870-3133
It Happened in Ellington...Believe it or Not explores the unique and unexpected stories that have shaped Ellington's history. It features surprising quirky events and little-known facts and uncovers the extraordinary within the seemingly ordinary. Visitors will better appreciate the town’s fascinating legacy through images and storytelling.
It Happened in Ellington Believe it or Not
Wednesday, Feb. 26th at 6:30 pm, presented by the Ellington Historical Society at the Hall Memorial Library
Register at https://hallmemoriallibrary.libcal.com/event/13569700. to reserve your spot.
It Happened in Ellington...Believe it or Not explores the unique and unexpected stories that have shaped Ellington's history. It features surprising quirky events and little-known facts and uncovers the extraordinary within the seemingly ordinary. Visitors will better appreciate the town’s fascinating legacy through images and storytelling.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open (
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Winterfest 2024
Celebrate Ellington's Winterfest at the Nellie McKnight Museum! Step into the warmth of the holiday spirit as you enjoy refreshments, gather around the bonfire, and tour the historic 1812 house museum beautifully decorated for the season. Browse the Holiday Marketplace for unique gifts and treasures, and enjoy the fellowship of friends and neighbors in a festive atmosphere. With so much to experience, the Nellie McKnight Museum is truly the place to be during Ellington’s Winterfest.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
Holiday Marketplace Open
The Nellie McKnight Museum's Holiday Marketplace offers a festive shopping experience with unique gifts and holiday treasures. Visitors can explore Nellie's Mercantile, stocked with one-of-a-kind gift items, including local artisan wares and Ellington-themed items, perfect for anyone who loves local charm. The Holiday Boutique is brimming with previously loved holiday décor and ornaments, each waiting for a new home and priced to sell. This seasonal event brings the spirit of the holidays to the museum, making it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to find special items while supporting the museum’s mission.
