After more than 50 years, our name as the “Friends” no longer reflects the vibrant and impactful community organization we have become. We have chosen to rebrand to better capture who we are today — a group that has grown, evolved and expanded its reach while remaining true to our mission and core values such as authenticity, transparency and inclusivity. Our new name honors our past yet embraces the future. As The Watershed History Collective, we remain committed to adapting to the interests and modes of learning relevant to our collective community with renewed enthusiasm. We also pay tribute to the founders, volunteers, donors and patrons whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for all that we have accomplished.
A “watershed moment” is a pivotal event that marks a significant turning point, often leading to profound change or transformation. The term originates from geography, whereby a watershed is an area of land where water drains into a common outlet, such as a river. In a literal sense, The Watershed History Collective explores and shares the history and heritage of the central Connecticut River Valley. South Windsor, specifically, is bordered to the north and south by the Scantic and Podunk Rivers, respectively, both tributaries of the Connecticut River. Additionally, South Windsor features five miles of agricultural fields along the great Connecticut River that have been utilized by humans for thousands of years. Figuratively, numerous watershed moments are important to understanding local history, such as Adriaen Block’s exploration of the Connecticut River and “discovery” of a palisaded fort belonging to the Nowaas, the nation’s first ferry (linking Windsor to the eastern shore), the birth of Jonathan Edwards and the medical practice of the formerly enslaved Dr. Primus Manumit.
As a collective, we will work to emphasize a responsibility and shared vision among our volunteers, donors and friends in the community to explore, learn, educate and inspire. Collaboration cultivates innovation, strengthens relationships and ensures that collective efforts generate understanding about how the past influences the world around us today.
Our logo represents the importance of local waterways, the agricultural history that flourished in South Windsor for thousands of years and iconic, recognizable structures of local history.
