Soiree on the the lawn of "The Howard"

Bethel evolved into a much-favored inland watering spot for the well-to-do between the Civil War and World War I. In this circa 1900 photograph, a large group of elegantly-attired gentlemen and ladies prepare for a soiree on the lawn of "The Howard," at the north end of the Bethel Hill Common. The O'Neil Robinson House, now owned by the Bethel Historical Society, appears in the right background.

Circa 1900