Because of the storm damage to local roads and the inability to secure peaches in time for the event, the Oxford Historical Society has postponed its 17th Annual Peach Festival until Saturday, September 7 from 4 – 7 p.m. As previously planned, it will be held at the Great Hill United Methodist Church, 220 Great Hill Road in Seymour.
Homemade peach shortcake will be featured with fresh peaches and whipped cream plus Rich Farm’s peach ice cream. The $8 fee includes admission and one serving.
Bottled water, tea and coffee will also be available.
This year’s Peach Festival photo display will highlight Oxford’s Russian Village. Located in the steep-sided valley along Eight Mile Brook and near the Housatonic River, it is named for the many Russians and Ukrainians who fled to the United States after the Russian Revolution beginning in 1917. Starting as weekend homes in the area around Roosevelt Drive, Punkup Road and Loughlin Road, their houses were later winterized, and the immigrants became permanent residents.
The festival will also feature displays on the Hale-Coleman Peach Farm Roads. Raising peaches was once a major enterprise in Seymour and Oxford.
All proceeds support the society’s preservation and opening of historic Mr. Munn’s one-room schoolhouse.
Those seeking additional information may call 203 888‑0230.
