Experience the Art of Chair Rushing and Caning with Susannah Anderson @ Weekend in Norfolk

On Sunday,  February 22,  from 10 am to 2 pm at the Berkshire County Store, during Weekend in Norfolk, you will find Susannah Anderson, immersed in a craft that ties beauty, patience, and heritage together: chair rushing and hole to hole caning. With every meticulous weave, Susannah breathes new life into worn chairs, preserving heirloom furniture, and the rich, layered stories embedded in each seat. 

Susannah’s path to chair weaving began with a deeply personal motivation: a family heirloom. "When my in-laws downsized, they passed on a few pieces of furniture, including a pair of worn Danish modern chairs,” she recalls. Intrigued and determined to restore them, she dove into online tutorials. In 2019, she re-wove the chairs. What many craftspeople love about rushing and caning is the almost meditative rhythm of wrapping and knotting. There is something magical about watching the geometric patterns gradually unfold, transforming a tired chair back into both beauty and usefulness. For Susannah, each woven chair is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a labor of love and a thread connecting decades of use.

That initial spark soon ignited a wider passion. From Danish cord to ash splint, from a neighbor’s heirloom chair to a canoe seat her father was restoring, each new project added to her skill set. "I see rushing and caning as a way for people to be able to use a chair they love. If someone has had a chair with a broken seat for years it must mean something to them, to save it and be willing to put money into getting it fixed -  or even a beloved thrifted item. People seem very glad to be able to use their chairs again," Susannah shares. 

Woven rush seating has a long and fascinating history, stretching all the way back to ancient Egypt, where bulrushes were transformed into strong, comfortable seats. Over the centuries, this craft grew in popularity—particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries in England and Colonial America, where country-style ladder back and spindle back chairs became household staples. Although the art of rush seating saw a decline in the 20th century, largely due to the loss of skilled craftsmen during wartime, it’s now making a wonderful comeback, thanks to renewed interest in the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Today, rushing a chair involves working with both durable twisted paper—known as fiber rush—and natural materials like bulrush or twisted cattail leaves. The result is a beautifully textured, sturdy seat that combines practical strength with nostalgic charm. Chair caning, by contrast, uses the glossy outer layer of rattan palm vine to create a seat that’s lightweight, breathable, and remarkably strong. Whether can is hand-woven through holes or pressed in as a pre-woven mesh, each technique adds its own distinctive touch.

Susannah, a painter, brings her keen artistic eye and a true passion for craftsmanship to every restoration project. She carefully assesses each chair’s needs and applies time-honored techniques to restore its beauty and function. While the process may look effortless, it demands patience, strong hands, and meticulous attention to detail.

Keeping these age-old crafts alive is not without its challenges. Materials are more expensive now, and handmade work is always a labor of love. As Susannah notes, “Trying to keep a project affordable, while making a living, as we say, is the ongoing challenge.” Yet, her commitment to restoration over replacement, and preservation over mass production, shines through in every project.

Those lucky enough to visit her Sunday demonstrations get to witness something special: not just the repair of a chair, but the revival of a tradition. Each seat restored is a piece of history woven by hand, carried forward by dedication and artistry.

For more information on Weekend in Norfolk visit http://weekendinnorfolk.org And, for information on the studio of Susannah Anderson visit https://www.susannahandersonart.com

Join the 2026 Winter Photography Workshop in Norfolk — A Picture-Perfect Experience Awaits!

Join us for a picture-perfect adventure at the Weekend in Norfolk's Winter Photography Workshop on Saturday, February 21, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, led by talented photographer Doug McDevitt. There’s something truly enchanting about Norfolk, Connecticut in the winter—the crisp air, snow-laden pines, and timeless New England charm make it a dream location for photographers of all levels. What better way to embrace the season than by exploring your creativity in this magical setting?

A Splash of Color photo Doug McDevitt

This friendly, immersive workshop is free and open to everyone, whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills. Doug will guide you through both the technical and artistic sides of photography, covering everything from the unique advantages of film and digital cameras to composing more dynamic images and mastering natural light in winter landscapes. You'll also pick up real-world shooting strategies and learn how to maximize your camera’s settings for the best results.

The cascading beauty of Buttermilk Falls: photo:  Doug McDevitt

The workshop is thoughtfully divided into two parts:

• Classroom Session (1 hour inside the Norfolk Hub), where you'll dive into techniques and tips
• Hands-on Photography Walk (2 hours in scenic City Meadow), where you’ll practice capturing Norfolk’s winter beauty alongside fellow enthusiasts Please note the location for the walk may change depending on weather conditions.

Share your images with fellow photographers

Just bring your camera of choice (DSLR, mirrorless, smartphone, or film), bundle up in warm clothes, and come ready to explore! This isn’t just a learning experience—it’s a creative adventure in a storybook setting. Don’t miss the chance to see Norfolk at its winter finest and connect with a community of like-minded photography lovers. Come for the photos, stay for the inspiration! 

For more information https://weekendinnorfolk.org

Celebrate the 9th Annual Winter Weekend in Norfolk – February 21 & 22, 2026

Get ready to experience winter at its finest during the 9th Annual Winter Weekend in Norfolk (WIN), happening Saturday, February 21, and Sunday, February 22. Set in the tranquil hills of northwestern Connecticut, every winter Norfolk transforms into a lively hub of creativity, community, and cold-weather charm. Whether you're drawn by outdoor adventures, art exhibits, or toe-tapping live music, WIN brings together the best of small-town charm and seasonal cheer. Enjoy everything from concerts to hands-on workshops and family-friendly events—all wrapped in the winter beauty of New England. The best part of WIN is that most events are free! For a full lineup and details of events and activities, be sure to visit weekendinnorfolk.org 

Free Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss 

You may want to start your adventure by joining photographer Doug McDevitt for a hands-on Winter Photography Workshop, where you’ll pick up expert tips on capturing the season’s natural glow and composing truly stunning shots. Then, step outside and explore the breathtaking, unspoiled beauty of Norfolk—a true winter wonderland just waiting to be framed. It's the perfect chance to sharpen your skills while creating images worthy of Instagram! 

Nature lovers, you won’t want to miss the Norfolk Conservation Committee’s native wildflower seed giveaway! It’s the perfect chance to pick up some seeds and learn how to transform your own backyard into a buzzing pollinator paradise. 

If you lean more toward art and history, you’re in for a treat—take a tour of the stunning stained glass windows at Battell Chapel, Church of Christ Congregational and Immaculate Conception Church. These breathtaking works are historic masterpieces by renowned artisans like Louis Comfort Tiffany, D. Maitland Armstrong, and Franz Mayer of Munich. 

For history buffs and fashion enthusiasts alike, The Romance of Worth: The Eldridge Sisters and the Centennial at the Norfolk Historical Society is a must-see. This captivating exhibition unveils decades of history through the lives of the Eldridge family, with a special spotlight on two bespoke gowns made by the House of Worth, the legendary 19th century Parisian fashion house credited with inventing haute couture. To deepen the experience, visitors are invited to a special gallery talk offering rare insights into the painstaking process of restoring these delicate garments for display. 

For fans of interior design and historic craftsmanship, WIN offers another wonder: a live demonstration of the ancient art of chair rushing—a practice dating back to the 4th century BCE, at the Berkshire Store. Artisan Susannah Anderson brings this timeless skill to life, weaving reeds and natural fibers to create supportive, beautiful seats right before your eyes. Rushing, along with other seat-weaving techniques such as cane and Danish cord, reflects generations of practical artistry that remains relevant in artisanal furnishing today. After soaking in fashion history, and living craftsmanship, round out your WIN day out at Joseph Stannard Antiques & Design’s open house. 

Art aficionados can dive into Norfolk’s vibrant scene as well. Explore two artists’ studios, Ruthann Olsson’s and Cheryl Heller’s, and connect with artists Katie Atkinson and Jeremiah Bickford during special Meet the Artist sessions to uncover the inspiration behind their work. And be sure to see the pop up art show by the Norfolk Artists & Friends at Wildwood 1880, a classic Victorian inn; they’ll be holding an early bird reception on Friday evening. Wildwood 1880 is also hosting a pop-up bakery and bookshop to add to the fun. 

Sports enthusiasts, don’t miss the action at the Norfolk Curling Club, where you can soak up the excitement of live curling matches while enjoying refreshments in a cozy atmosphere. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the fascinating strategy and teamwork behind one of the world’s oldest sports! If you’re a fishing fan, there’s a special Fly Tying workshop—perfect for both curious beginners and seasoned anglers eager to refine their craft. Families are well taken care of, too. 

On Sunday, the Hub transforms into a downtown haven for kids, offering children’s films, hot chocolate, and popcorn—all the ingredients for a perfect family outing on a chilly day, courtesy of the Hub and the National Iron Bank. And, up at Botelle Elementary School, there’s a blizzard of fun things for kids and their parents to do. 

As always, Norfolk’s love for music comes alive at this year’s Winter WIN. Warm up with an exciting lineup—feel the energy of a brass quintet at the Norfolk Library, relax to the soulful sounds of Michael Cobb’s at The Hub, and be dazzled by award-winning pianist Po-Wei Ger’s classical concert. 

In addition to all these free events, there’s so much more happening. The Icebox Café and Berkshire Country Store are rolling out WIN Weekend specials you won’t want to miss, and two pop-up bakeries are joining the fun with irresistible treats. Then there are events that are ticketed, including a mushroom workshop, or that request a donation, such as an evening coffeehouse with live music and refreshments. For a full schedule and the latest updates, visit weekendinnorfolk.org

The WIN Committee, now in its twelfth year, is a volunteer-powered team dedicated to organizing Norfolk’s Summer and Winter WIN festivals. With support from town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and countless local organizations and individuals, these events welcome visitors from near and far to experience all that Norfolk has to offer.

Welcome to “Sidewalk Sunday”: A Fresh New Feature for Weekend in Norfolk!

Get ready to stroll, shop, and soak in the creativity at Norfolk’s brand-new Sidewalk Sunday, happening on the afternoon of Sunday, August 3! As part of this year’s Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) festivities, Station Place will transform into an open-air marketplace full of local charm. From 12:45 to 5:00 p.m., the street will be closed to vehicles, making room for a vibrant mix of tents featuring local artists, authors, artisans, and organizations—all eager to share their work and passions with you.

Whether you're on the hunt for unique handmade goods, curious about local causes, or just looking to enjoy a fun Sunday afternoon, Sidewalk Sunday has something for everyone. And to top it off, live music on Robertson Plaza from local favorites like Elias Neuman-Donihue, Julia Autumn Ford, and Mike Cobb and his band will keep the vibe festive. Feel free to sing along, dance, or just tap your toes while you browse!

Want to be part of the action? If you’re a local creative or part of a Norfolk organization, there’s still time to join in! Just email win@earthlink.net to request your spot. And don’t forget to check out the full three-day schedule of WIN events at weekendinnorfolk.org
See you on the sidewalk!

Discover the Timeless Beauty of Barbour Woods

Tucked away in the charming town of Norfolk, Connecticut, Barbour Woods is a delightful blend of history, nature, and quiet wonder. Once owned by surgeon and educator, Dr. Frederick Shepard, in the early 1900s, it later came into the hands of the Barbour family. In 1998, thanks to the generosity of Frederick Barbour’s daughter, this enchanting property was gifted to the Norfolk Land Trust, and what a gift it is!

photo credit: Fred Knight

Today, Barbour Woods is beloved by birdwatchers and hikers alike. With over three miles of scenic trails, it’s the perfect place to lose yourself in the beauty of nature. Start your walk at Lovers Lane — yes, it’s as romantic as it sounds — where early 20th-century sweethearts once rode in carriages beneath the leafy canopy. From there, follow the Old Carriage Trail up to Beech Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Haystack Mountain.

Photo Sean Iceton

But don’t stop there — the real magic lies along the winding Hemlock Trail, where shaded ravines, whispering brooks, and the hauntingly beautiful Killarney Bridge, a crumbling stone arch, invite you to pause and imagine polished carriages and the elegant visitors of Norfolk's summer resort days. Continuing on, keep an eye out for the North and South Dams, and learn how this landscape plays a crucial role in local conservation, supporting endangered species like the New England cottontail rabbit. This isn't just a walk through history and natural beauty, but a glimpse of the future of conservation.

Whether you're in the mood for a scenic hike, a step back in time, or just a breath of fresh forest air, Barbour Woods is a timeless and beautiful escape. Plan your journey at  norfolklandtrust.org and start your adventure today! Sign up for a bird walk at weekendinnorfolk.org.  and download a map. 

Blueberry Betty - A Classic Dessert @ Summer WIN

There are pies and cobblers, crisps and crumbles, but at the Summer Weekend in Norfolk, you will have the chance to try a real classic dessert that dates to Colonial times, the scrumptious Blueberry Betty. Best of all, folks get to try this sweet, simple, but ever so gratifying dessert for free along with ice cream on Saturday, August 2, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the lawn of the Meadowbrook Apartments at 9 Shepard Road. 

Back in the day, in colonial New England, the most common way to cook something was in the fireplace, where most food was either steamed or boiled. Considering the shortage of supplies that had to be shipped from England, colonial cooks were frugal, finding a use for everything shipped in and growing in the environment around them.  The first documented fruit desserts in New England were most often made with apples, huckleberries, blueberries, and anything that was in season. Typically, the fruit was put into a deep pot, topped with a dough mixture, sweetened with honey or maple syrup, a dash of spice was added if available, and then the pot was covered and suspended over the fire in the fireplace, and steamed until the fruit was tender and juicy.

The Apple Brown Betty and its sister dessert, the Blueberry Betty was a no-fuss dessert that used ingredients that colonial women had on hand. Unlike other stewed desserts of the time, the Betty wasn't covered in dough, rather sweetened bread crumbs were placed in layers between the brown sugared and spiced fruit making it the perfect way for these thrifty women to use stale bread. The layering of the bread gives this dessert more of a pudding-like texture than a pie, crisp, or crumble. Just like in today's family kitchens, the recipe was passed down from mother to child. Like all homespun food, there were countless variations from kitchen to kitchen and season to season.  It wasn't until 1856 that a recipe named Apple Brown Betty made its debut in Every Lady's Cookbook by Mrs. T.J. Crowen.  It was also mentioned in 1864 in the Yale Literary Magazine listing it as something to give up if you are in physical training! 

Early August is the height of Connecticut's blueberry season, making this dessert extra special because the berries are so fresh. Today, blueberries are considered to be a superfood because they are bursting with nutrients, many of which are classified as antioxidants and phytochemicals. The Blueberry Betty is part of our New England heritage that is celebrated at Summer WIN, so come join the fun and try this homemade dessert. For the recipe of this one-dish wonder used at WIN click here.

Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of WIN with Music, Art, Nature, and Family Fun!

This year marks a milestone 10th anniversary of the Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) celebration, and the town is pulling out all the stops!  From Friday, August 1, through Sunday, August 3, the whole town is coming alive with a vibrant mix of activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you're a longtime local or first-time visitor, this is your chance to dive into everything that makes Norfolk special.

One of the biggest highlights is the brand-new Sidewalk Sunday, taking place from 12 noon to 5 pm at Robertson Plaza. The plaza will be bustling with energy as a diverse mix of local organizations, artists, and authors showcase their creations and share their passions. With the street closed to traffic, it’s a safe and welcoming space for families to enjoy live music, delicious bites from local favorites like the Berkshire Country Store and Norfolk Pub, and the vibrant community spirit that makes this WIN so special.

Music lovers are in for a treat, as free performances abound all weekend long. From Friday night's concert on the Green featuring Pat Attanasio to multiple Saturday showcases including the Emerging Artists at the Music Shed and popular local acts like the Grantville Dawgs and the Carol & Nick Jazz Duo, there’s something for every musical taste. Sunday rounds out the musical offerings with performances by Elias Neuman-Donihue, Julia Autumn Ford, and Mike Cobb at Robertson Plaza, plus a free children’s concert at the Music Shed.

Discover the beauty and wonder of nature with WIN’s unforgettable outdoor experiences. Join a guided birding walk through the scenic Barbour Woods, or dive into 90 years of climate history at Great Mountain Forest’s historic weather station, where science meets storytelling. Whether you're a curious explorer or a nature enthusiast, you'll uncover how past weather data is shaping modern forecasting. 

Prefer to take things at your own pace? Stroll through Connecticut’s most charming Historic District on a self-guided walking tour, where centuries-old architecture whispers stories of the past. Or, if you’re craving adventure, explore Norfolk's many trails and experience the raw, rugged beauty of the local landscape. Whatever your style, there’s a path waiting for you.

Families with children will find plenty to engage young minds and bodies, from a West African music and dance workshop with award-winning artist Iddi Saaka at the Norfolk Library, to Sunday morning yoga and meditation on the Village Green. And don’t miss the hands-on art and water play at Bottelle School, where kids can craft their own masks and cool off under a fire truck’s refreshing spray!

Step back in time at the Norfolk Historical Society's new exhibit, "A New Birth of Freedom: Norfolk in the Civil War." This captivating display delves into the town's role leading up to and during the Civil War, highlighting the brave individuals who fought to preserve the Union. On Saturday, August 2, history buffs can further enrich their experience with a guided tour of Center Cemetery, led by Barry Webber, the Society’s executive director.

For fishing enthusiasts, join expert fisherman Doug McDevitt, who is offering fly fishing seminars perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. With personalized instruction limited to five participants per session on Saturday and Sunday, you’ll receive hands-on guidance in the art of Spey casting, courtesy of equipment provided by Orvis of Avon.  Nature lovers can also enjoy a peaceful Sunday stroll, August 3, through two private gardens linked by beautifully designed pathways and lush shade plantings—a serene escape for any garden enthusiast.

Meanwhile, cultural explorers will want to stop by the Connecticut Asia Cultural Center on Saturday, August 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for its annual festival. Visitors will be treated to immersive exhibits on Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, Christian, and Inca cultures, along with vibrant performances like the Tai Chi Fan Dance. Enjoy a complimentary Asian lunch box, participate in a Dragon Boat Racers competition, and attend engaging seminars and a traditional tea ceremony.

This beloved event invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of timeless activities, from heartfelt wedding vow renewals on the Green to captivating tours of Tiffany’s stained glass windows and the historic WhiteHouse. And of course, no community celebration is complete without cherished local traditions. 

Indulge in nostalgic delights like the blueberry Betty and ice cream social at Meadow Brook apartments on Saturday, or share in the joy of the children’s concert and ice cream social at the iconic Music Shed on the Battell estate on Sunday. Whether you're reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, Summer WIN offers something special for everyone — a true celebration of connection, heritage, and joy.

With most events free and spread conveniently around town, you can explore at your own pace and find something for every interest and age group. Don’t miss this unforgettable summer celebration—check out the full schedule at weekendinnorfolk.org