Mini Rave Event to Celebrate Connecticut’s Stories on January 11

Let’s show the nation the vibrancy of Connecticut's stories and our role in shaping America’s past, present, and future.

History Chip, in partnership with The Connecticut Storytelling Center and New London Library, launches an ambitious storytelling project to preserve Connecticut's voices at the first ever Mini Rave, happening January 11, 2025, from 10 AM to 1 PM at the New London Public Library (63 Huntington Street).

Facilitated by acclaimed storyteller Carolyn M. Stearns, this event marks the first step in collecting 10,000 stories as part of the All Connecticut Storytelling Rave, coming in April 2025, and local events around the state in the months ahead.

This Mini Rave event is brought to you by History Chip, a platform that democratizes history by preserving personal stories from diverse voices. The stories shared will be safeguarded in History Chip's archive, ensuring they can be seen and heard by future generations—grandchildren, researchers, and individuals decades from now - offering a genuine window into our present lives and our life’s experiences.

Mini Rave participants can share their Connecticut stories in various formats—writing, voice recordings, or video submissions—ensuring their voices contribute to a lasting legacy. Whether recounting family traditions, cherished community moments, favorite hiking trails, or so many other experiences that have had an impact on you, every story helps build a richer narrative of Connecticut's identity.

“This Mini Rave is more than just an event; it’s a chance to capture the spirit and diversity of Connecticut, one story at a time,” said Jean McGavin, Founder, History Chip. “This is an opportunity to become a part of our collective history, by sharing a slice of your history.”

Why Attend the Mini Rave?

• Celebrate Connecticut’s unique stories and heritage.
• Share your personal perspective as part of a collective narrative.
• Be part of the state’s contribution to America’s 250th-anniversary celebration.

For more information, visit www.historychip.com.

Looking Ahead: Save the Date for All-Connecticut Storytelling Rave on Saturday, April 5

The Mini Rave is just the beginning. This spring, a larger All Connecticut Storytelling Rave will unite communities across the state for an even more immersive experience. With the goal of gathering 10,000 stories, History Chip invites everyone to take part in this monumental project celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

How to Get Involved – Many Ways!

1. Attend the Mini Rave on January 11 at the New London Public Library. (Be ready to tell your story – in video or audio or print, your choice. (Singly, or amongst a group of family, friends or colleagues)
2. Submit your story online at www.historychip.com.
3. Follow History Chip on social media to learn about future events and become a storytelling ambassador.
4. Ask your organization to host a Mini Rave event.
5. Sponsor the Rave. (Email jean@historychip.com to get started).
6. Volunteer! (Email jean@historychip.com to get involved).

History Chip invites everyone to contribute their experiences, which together form our collective history. The Mini Rave is an initiative to actively gather these stories from Connecticut towns, cities, communities, neighborhoods… enriching our shared narrative.

Chips of life as you have seen or experienced it. And when you have added your stories, they will also become part of the History Chip archive, as it adds humanity and breadth to the story of our world. You don’t have to tell your life story. Perhaps you would like to describe your town, your school, a particular triumph or adventure, your first job as a teen, your move into town from elsewhere- the possibilities are endless.