Wednesday night, several local organizations will gather once again to help support the upkeep of a historic Simsbury landmark — the White Memorial Fountain in Weatogue.
The third White Memorial Fountain Bash takes place at Abigail’s Grille and Wine Bar at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2013.
The fountain, located on Hopmeadow Street across from the restaurant, was dedicated in 1892 to the late Dr. Roderick White, the man who traveled "with his horse and rig traveled about Simsbury ministering to the sick and dying, educating his patients about disease and its prevention, discussing their diets and daily habits for almost fifty years," according to the Simsbury Historical Society Web site.
Today, the historical society is caretaker for the fountain. While volunteer organizations help with plantings and other beautification, there are costs such as mowing, maintaining the fountain's pump and electricity to run the lights.
"It costs quite a bit of money every year to run it," said Kevin E. Gray, President of the society's board of directors.
In all it total approximately $6,000 a year,
The bash is a way to raise funds toward that upkeep and is a partnership between the society, Simsbury Main Street Partnership and Simsbury Cemetery Association. In addition, Abigail's donates food and drink for the evening, allowing 100 percent of the funds to go to the effort, Gray said.
"They're a great partner on this," Gray said. "We appreciate their help."
Cost to attend the bash is a $100 Tax deductible contribution. While reservations were requested and attendance limited, there should be room for a few more at the door, Gray said.
Read more about the fountain at the historical society's Web site.
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