The Historical Society Presents A Free Community Film Screening

Chestertown, Maryland: An American Home Town for more than 350 years featuring excerpts from Chestertown, Maryland: A Classic American Town on the Chester River, filmed in 1940!

There’s nothing like the movies on a hot summer day! All are invited to join the Historical Society on July 28, 2024 at 2 pm at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 101 North Cross Street, for a look back at life in Chestertown in very different parts of the 20th century.

The film features footage from life in Chestertown in the early 20th century, along with modern commentary from local residents and luminaries. The result is an immersive dual time capsule with entries from both 1940 and 1995. From the 1940 film comes a treasure trove of scenes from life in Kent County before World War II, from streetscapes to fashion, people, businesses, celebrations, and pastimes. A highlight is the children’s pet parade, complete with dogs in bonnets, kittens, goats, a duck, at least one raccoon, and much more.

The film includes appearances by pillars of the Kent County community, people whose ideas and actions still influence life here today, including longtime mayors Elmer Horsey and Margo Bailey. Local residents share memories sparked by watching the scenes from 1940, and offer their perspectives on Chestertown’s history and where, in 1995, they saw the community going.

The screening will be followed by a brief discussion about life in Kent County in earlier eras. Bring your memories and stories to share! Those who appeared in the film and their relatives are especially invited to attend and participate.

Admission is free, but tickets can be reserved at this link. Those who can are encouraged to make a donation to help support the programming, events, and activities of the Historical Society, which strives to share, celebrate, and reflect on Kent County history.

The Historical Society invites everyone to consider becoming a member. Membership benefits include a welcoming and friendly community, unlimited use of the Genealogy and Research Library (by appointment), a discount on books in the museum gift shop, and invitations to members-only events, among others. A donation of $25 is recommended for individual memberships, and $40 for families. Student memberships are always free. Visit www.kentcountyhistory.org for more information, or email admin@kentcountyhistory.org.