Professor to share Wanguck family stories

MIDDLETOWN — A free program on indigenous people of Connecticut will be hosted virtually by the Humanists and Freethinkers of Fairfield County Monday in recognition of Indigenous People’s/Columbus Day.

The event will feature Central Connecticut State University history professor, department chairwoman, and historian Katherine Hermes of Middletown,

who will discuss the topic: “Indigenous Connecticut:

Wangunk Family Stories 1600-2021,” according to a news release.

Hermes’ focus is on the Wangunk native people of Connecticut, who made significant contributions to Connecticut law and society. “They traded with the Dutch and formed networks with the English, while using their own customs and traditional to withstand changes brought about by colonization to protect their land and ensure their survival,” the news release said.

Hermes, who received her doctorate from Yale, has taught in New Zealand. She is also the author of articles and chapters on Native American history in New England, including Native legal history, according to the statement.

Those interested in attending the virtual event can register at bit.ly/hffcWANGUNK. Check-in for the program begins at 6:45 p.m. and the event will begin at 7.

Cassandra Day / Hearst Conn. Media A Native American Wangunk statue overlooks the Connecticut River at Harbor Park in Middletown.