Vampires in Connecticut - Virtual Lecture

In the 19th century, fear of vampires swept across New England. Join the Norwalk Historical Society as we explore this fascinating folklore and uncover a real-life mystery that began in 1990, when two boys stumbled upon human skulls in a Connecticut gravel quarry.

Archaeologists—including our speaker, Dr. Nicholas Bellantoni—investigated what turned out to be a forgotten colonial cemetery. One unusual grave raised suspicions of vampire beliefs, but the truth revealed a much deeper story rooted in public health concerns.

Through archaeology, forensics, genealogy, and folklore, learn how experts piece together the truth behind the “Connecticut vampires.”

📅 Sunday, October 26, 2025
🕑 2:00 – 3:00 PM (EST)
💻 Virtual Event
🎙️ Speaker: Nicholas Bellantoni, PhD

About Dr. Nicholas F. Bellantoni

Dr. Nicholas F. Bellantoni received his PhD in Anthropology from the University of Connecticut (UConn) in 1987. He served as Connecticut’s State Archaeologist at the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History, and today is Emeritus in that role. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Anthropology at UConn and a past President of both the Archaeological Society of Connecticut and the National Association of State Archaeologists.

His research background includes forensic archaeology and faunal analysis from eastern North America. Nick is the author of many books written for the general public: The Long Journeys Home: The Repatriation of Henry Opukaha’ia and Albert Afraid of Hawk and “And So The Tomb Remained”: Exploring Archaeology and forensic Science Within Connecticut’s Historical Family Mausolea, Archaeology Without Digging: Connecticut History Uncovered By Ground-Penetrating Radar, and Hiking Ruins of Southern New England: A Guide to 40 Sites in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

About the Norwalk Historical Society

The Norwalk Historical Society was incorporated in 1899, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Norwalk, Connecticut. Through engaging programs, exhibits, and events, the Society connects the community to its historical roots and ensures that the stories of the past continue to inspire future generations.

Two locations in Norwalk, CT: Mill Hill Historic Park, 2 East Wall Street and Norwalk Historical Society Museum, 141 East Avenue. For more information: norwalkhistoricalsociety.org, info@norwalkhistoricalsociety.org, or call 203-846-0525.