The Lyme Public Hall and Local History Archives rang in 2026 by recognizing longtime contributors Bill Denow and Ann Brubaker at our traditional New Year’s Day celebration.
First Selectwoman Christy Zelek was with us to help bestow our highest honors to these two special LPHLHA members. Bill Denow received the Public Hall’s merit award for Major Donors, in his case recognizing not only financial support but specifically his extraordinary contributions of time, care and energy. President Rolf Wolfswinkel in his remarks described Bill as “practically synonymous” with the Lyme Public Hall, citing his roles as a general building manager, organizing the annual tag sale, chef for the popular chowder dinner, and a driving force behind the renovation of the basement space. He organizes the annual wreath and swag-making workshops held at the Public Hall by the Lyme Garden Club that decorate the town buildings and cemeteries for the holidays. Bill also devotes many volunteer hours to the Local History Archives and has helped to research our historical exhibits displayed every summer for the July 4th celebrations.
Ann Brubaker was honored with the Hiram Maxim II Award for the Preservation of Lyme’s Cultural Heritage. This award was instituted in 2008 after the death of its namesake town historian, and has only been bestowed upon two prior recipients: Carolyn Bacdayan and Parker Lord. Wolfswinkel praised Ann’s decades of quiet, steady work in the Lyme Public Hall Archives, where she has served as assistant to two archivists. Throughout the years, Ann has helped to keep the Archives doors open for community members to have access, patiently helping people locate items held in the collection or to make donations. Ann has also been a key contributor to the many exhibitions organized by the Archives showcasing Lyme’s history. Rolfswinkel credited her with playing a central role in preserving the town’s historical record.
The awards are commemorated on plaques displayed in the Public Hall.
The scene at the New Year’s Day Celebration
Christy Zelek presents Ann Brubaker with her award
Christy Zelek presents Bill Denow with his award as Rolf Wolfswinkel looks on
The Lyme Public Hall Band provided lively entertainment