NEWS RELEASE

11/17/2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Connecticut Historical Society to Exhibit Photos From 1965 Civil Rights March from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama

HARTFORD, CT – The Connecticut Historical Society (CHS) has partnered with the New-York Historical Society Museum & Library to bring Freedom Journey 1965: Photographs of the Selma to Montgomery March by Stephen Somerstein to CHS from January 28, 2021 through June 5, 2021. This exhibition features stunning and historic photographs by Stephen Somerstein, taken during the 1965 five-day, 54-mile march made by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, James Baldwin, and many others.

Somerstein, a then 24-year-old City College student, took about four hundred photographs, using the five cameras he had with him. Somerstein sold a few of his images to The New York Times Magazine, Public Television and photography collectors, but none were exhibited until 2010. The exhibition will be augmented to include images and objects from the CHS collection that illustrate the work for civil rights in Connecticut.

CHS Chief Executive Officer Robert Kret believes that this is the right time for an exhibition like Freedom Journey 1965: Photographs of the Selma to Montgomery March by Stephen Somerstein to be on view at the CHS because “we recognize that historic moments are happening all around us, every day. The presentation of the exhibition is in alignment with our new strategic plan and new mission. The CHS is committed to collecting and presenting our diverse history. We strive to work with an inclusive audience to promote historical and cultural perspectives as essential tools to connect with others, shape communities, and make informed decisions.”

Virtual programming centered on this exhibition will be offered, with the most up-to-date information found at CHS.org. Daily admission tickets can be purchased in person at the CHS. Museum hours are Tuesday-Friday 12:00pm – 5:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm. The health and safety of  visitors and staff is of utmost priority, and COVID-19 protocols are in place to maximize safety and enjoyment of exhibits. This includes, but is not limited to: limited visitor capacity, facemask requirements, increased cleaning, and more. For additional information on the CHS COVID-19 health and safety protocols, visit CHS.org.

This exhibition has been organized by the New-York Historical Society. Support for this exhibition is provided by Bank of America and the Henry Nias Foundation.

Additional support for the Connecticut Historical Society provided by RMC Investment Advisors, Stanley Black & Decker, and Barnes Group Inc.

The Connecticut Historical Society (www.CHS.org) is a privately funded, independent, not-for-profit educational organization that includes a museum, library, the Edgar F. Waterman Research Center, and the Connecticut Cultural Heritage Arts Program. Founded in 1825, the CHS is Connecticut’s statewide historical society, and a Smithsonian Affiliate. At the CHS, we cultivate understanding of the history and culture of Connecticut, and its role in the United States and the world. Through our collections, research, educational programs, and exhibitions we reflect the past, actively engage with the present, and innovate for the future.

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