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|  By Constance Manoli-Skocay, the reference librarian and archivist at the Gleason Public Library and the archivist for the Carlisle Historical Society. Several times in its history the town of Carlisle attempted to gain its independence, first in 1754, when it was set off as a district of Concord, and again in 1780, when it became a district of Acton. It was not until 1805 that Carlisle was finally incorporated as a town (see an article about Carlisle's quest for independence here). Two hundred years later, it is time to commemorate the event. Carlisle's birthday was observed on February 18, 2005, when it marked two centuries as a town. Events are planned from February 2005 to February 2006 and everyone is invited to attend. Come celebrate with us!Bicentennial events kicked off on Presidents' Day weekend with four performances of Under the Chestnut Tree: A Chronicle of Carlisle, Massachusetts, an original play about Carlisle's earliest settlers written by Anne Marie Brako. The history of the settling of Carlisle by the Adams, Blood, Heald, Parlin, and Robbins families is artfully interwoven with Shakespearean references. The play was performed by members of Town Cow Theater Company of Concord and local residents. An encore production will be held during Old Home Day weekend. The Gleason Public Library will feature a variety of historical exhibits throughout the year, beginning with Reverend Paul Litchfield, First Minister of Carlisle, which runs through February. The People of Carlisle, an exhibit of historical photographs of nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Carlisle residents will be on display at the library throughout the bicentennial year.
Old Home Day is always the highlight of Carlisle's calendar, but this year it will be especially festive. In addition to the traditional crafts, food, music, and games, activities will include a revival of the milkmaid's contest (circa Old Home Day 1913) and an old-fashioned corn-shucking. There will be a Twilight All-Carlisle Music Cavalcade, a Soapbox Derby, and a bigger hot-air balloon fest. The new town song will be announced, the result of a town-wide competition. Of course, the traditional parade, cakewalk, barbecue, art show, and pancake breakfast will also be on the schedule, and a fireworks display is planned. Be sure to note the change of date: Old Home Day weekend will be on June 25-26 this year, instead of Fourth of July weekend. For updates, check the Old Home Day website at www.ohd.nightlights.us and the Carlisle Mosquito or its website at www.carlislemosquito.org. Carlisle Bicentennial Events Calendar
Images: Courtesy of the Gleason Library Special Collections
 
 
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During March and April the Library will host The Essence of Carlisle, an exhibit featuring the work of local artists. Artwork includes sculpture, oils, watercolors, weavings, painted furniture, found objects, photographs, and ceramics.
