Aton Forest: A Centennial Celebration at The Norfolk Hub
Celebrate a century of conservation, ecological research, and environmental stewardship during Aton Forest: A Centennial Celebration, on view through July at The Norfolk Hub. This special exhibition commemorates the 100-year legacy of Aton Forest, offering visitors an immersive look at one of Connecticut’s most significant ecological research sites and its continuing impact on conservation science.
The exhibition opens with a public reception on July 10 at 4:30 pm featuring remarks by Aton Forest President Billy Gridley, who will discuss the organization’s history, its ongoing research mission, and the recent addition of the 965-acre Spaulding Pond Preserve, a permanently protected natural area in South Norfolk.
Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting both historic and current scientific research, including the Lingering Ash Study, the forest’s extensive herbarium collection, vegetation research on the rare tapering fern, and entomologist Charley Eiseman’s work documenting leaf miners. The exhibition also examines the pioneering ecological ideas of Dr. Frank Egler, whose groundbreaking research helped shape modern ecosystem science and influenced early environmental thought, including his correspondence with Rachel Carson during the development of Silent Spring.
The exhibition also celebrates the partnership between Dr. Egler and photographer Happy Kitchel, whose artistic documentation of Connecticut’s landscapes complemented his scientific work and helped inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Throughout July, the centennial celebration will feature additional lectures and educational programs, including Nature & Brain Health: Minding the Gaps with Dr. Susan Masino on July 12, the Aton Forest Science Lecture and Walk led by Dr. James Lendemer, and the release of Billy Gridley’s new book, The Spirit of Aton Forest: Frank Egler, Rebel Ecologist, in Pursuit of Science and Natural Area Protection.
Aton Forest: A Centennial Celebration offers a unique opportunity to discover the history of ecological research in Connecticut while exploring the importance of conservation, scientific discovery, and responsible stewardship for future generations.
The Norfolk Hub is located at 2 Station Place, Norfolk, CT 06058. The exhibition is on view through July. For more information, visit https://www.norfolkhub.org/.
