Markeshia Ricks Photo
New Haven celebrated its 381st birthday with fanfare, cupcakes and a recognition of other important institutions and people in the city who are reaching important milestones.
That all took place at City Hall Tuesday afternoon as people gathered to recognize the historic occasion and recognize people for their contribution to “public service and their love for community arts, culture, progress, and spiritual uplift” as exemplified in the recipients in the 2019 City Spirit Awards.
Marianne Carolla (pictured at the second photo at the top of the story) was among those honored with a Spirit Award. Carolla has served the city for 52 years as a librarian.
The birthday party was in full swing thanks to the sense of occasion provided by Bill MacMullen, who served as the commemorative advisor for Tuesday’s celebration, and the sounds provided by the Survivors Swing Band.
There was a shift in the program, which meant that the person who was to sing “America the Beautiful” wasn’t going to make it. Fire Chief John Alston Jr. (picture above) showed off another of his superpowers by stepping in to deliver the honors, much to the surprise of the audience. He wasn’t the only person pressed into service. Beverly Hills/Amity Alder Richard Furlow (also pictured above) filled in for the scheduled minister of the hour with a prayer.
The New Haven Gilbert & Sullivan Society (pictured) marked the occasion with a song that celebrated the longevity of some of the city’s stalwart institutions including Southern Connecticut University and the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, both of which are turning 125 this year; the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce, which is turning 225, along with Franklin Construction and Yale Bands, which are both turning 100. These organizations also happen to be City Spirit awardees this year.
Mayor Toni Harp said Tuesday’s birthday celebration recognized not only the city’s birthday but also the transformation the city is currently undergoing. She called the Elm City a place for “new ideas and robust investment.” U.S. State Rep. Rosa DeLauro, who grew up in Wooster Square, took a stroll down memory lane about the ways she has seen the city change over her own life time.
After looking back over how far the city has come in 381 years, attendees to Tuesday’s event were able to indulge in a way to wear their pride by taking home a little New Haven swag so they could be ambassadors for their city no matter where they go.
Click the Facebook live video to catch some of Tuesday’s birthday celebration.