The 150th anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War is commemorated at the Darien Historical Society with a compelling exhibition in the Scofield Barn. The exhibit, organized by Ken Reiss, chronicles the men from Darien who fought in the war through personal letters and memorabilia, as well as historic background on regiments and battles. The second part of the exhibition offers a background on Fitch's Home for Soldiers, the first veterans' home in the country. Begun as a home for connecticut men who served as volunteers during the Civil War, it quickly was converted to serve a more immediate need as a home and school for soldiers' orphans. As the orphans grew and left, more and more veterans needed help, and the home reverted to its original purpose. The story of Fitch's Home is a source of pride for all Darien Residents.
