Fifty-five years ago, the Rotary Club of Essex introduced a quintessential New England event to the Connecticut Shoreline. A unique fundraiser and dining experience known as a ‘Shad Bake.’ For shad lovers, the secret ingredients and authentic method of preparation and cooking handed down from Connecticut natives provide a great lure to the event.
Imagine pieces of this rare and local fish being nail to seasoned 50 lb. boards. Now envision 20-30 of these boards standing on end as they encircle a once raging fire that now boasts hot coals that carefully cook each piece given the appropriate seasoning and timing.
Add to this … homemade potato salad, tossed green salad, and apple pie from Lyman Orchards garnished with a hunk of cheddar cheese. Bar-b-que chicken and hot dogs are also offered.
The event is always held on the first Saturday of June accompanied by music from Stu Ingersoll and his band and games for children. The atmosphere is vibrant with antique cars, picnickers, and the smell of shad roasting around the open fire.
This is an all-volunteer event hosted by the Rotary Club of Essex and coordinated by Bake Master Joe Shea of AJ Shea Construction. You might find one of your favorite doctors or dentists at the de-nailing table or visit Greg Shook from Essex Savings Bank for a freshly shucked clam or oyster.
Join seasoned Shad Bake pioneers like Herb Clark, Chet Kitchings and Dan Lapman for a story from shad bakes of yesteryear including the year of the big flood. Curiosity, hunger, whatever your motivation, visit the Essex Elementary School in Centerbrook on June 1, 4.30 to 6.30 p.m. for one of the “Top 20 Summer Events” according to Yankee Magazine.
Tickets are $25 with discounts for children.
Visit www.rotaryclubofessex.com to purchase tickets and view a video of the Rotary Club of Essex in action.
