Crystal Lake lies between the towns of Tolland and Stafford on a five-mile-long triangular strip of land extending from the northeastern corner of Ellington. Attracted by the lakes sandy shore surrounded by forests of oak, chestnut, pine, and maple, early families of settlers called the lake Square Pond. In the 1890s, Crystal Lake became a destination resort. Its popularity extended through the advent of the interurban trolley and Depression-era auto trippers who stayed in the lakes hotels, cottages, and roadside tourist cabins. In the 1930s, the Sandy Beach Ballroom attracted the big bands of Duke Ellington, Guy Lombardo, and Cab Calloway. The ballroom also served as a roller-skating rink where young people from Ellington, Stafford, Rockville, and surrounding towns spent their leisure hours. Today Crystal Lake remains a popular getaway for fishing, swimming, and boating.

This historical novel celebrates the lives of Elisha Benton and Jemima Barrows. Their courage and self-sacrifice in the years 1774 -1777 is a metaphor for the actions of countless others who contributed to the birth of our country. As such this story is a celebration not only of a colonial era couple, but also of Connecticut's rich history and her citizens. In 1774, the closing of Boston's port by the British fanned outrage across the New England colonies. The farmers of Tolland, Connecticut drove sheep to relieve the suffering of their fellow subjects. Within months they would march on Boston again - this time shouldering arms in response to the Lexington Alarm. Among them was Elisha Benton, 1st born son of one of the town's founding families. The rebellion tore him from his betrothed. Jemima Barrows was but 15, yet it was her family's low station that fueled Benton opposition to the match. If Elisha and Jemima were to wed, the patriarch's objections must be overcome, and Elisha must survive the war. Today one may visit the Daniel Benton Homestead Museum - where some believe the spirits of this young couple linger. Here their fate can be discovered. The story of their lives and courageous self-sacrifice, however, dwells within the pages of this historical novel. *** "Every local third grader, and every visitor to the Daniel Benton Homestead Museum, has heard the brief legend of Elisha Benton and Jemima Barrows and seen their graves. Many visit with the hope of catching a glimpse of their spirits. Now John Cuffe has brought Elisha and Jemima to life in this engaging novel, set against the events of the Revolutionary War. Written in the first person, as told by Elisha Benton, it seems to give an authentic voice to the lives and times of this young couple." Barbara Cook, Archivist, Town Historian, Tolland Historical Society * * * "John J. Cuffe has crafted an engaging story that weaves the facts of Elisha Benton's life with what is known about 18th century rural New England and the early days of the American Revolutionary War. It is very interesting to have Elisha (Benton) with a voice. The author has created a believable and dimensional character in an intriguing story line." Gail White Usher, Director, Daniel Benton Homestead Museum, Tolland Historical Society

Beginning in 1924, Proceedings are incorporated into the Apr. no.