Who says that historical societies are stodgy and dusty?

On Sept. 24, in an unforgettable display of nostalgia and spirit at the Mystic Shipyard, one hadn’t seen so many bell-bottoms, beads, fringed vests, and headbands, well, since 1973.

Celebrating the 1973 establishment of the Mystic River Historical Society, over 100 members and friends celebrated their 50th anniversary by transporting attendees back in time to the colorful and groovy era of the 1970s, all to original tunes played on vinyl. “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” anyone?

In their finest ’70s costumes, society members and friends danced the night away. A far-out time to be sure…

The night marked 50 years to the day of searching out, collecting, scrutinizing, eyeballing, cataloging and scribbling about famous and infamous Mystic, what the British called “a cursed hornet’s nest” full of “damned Yankee tricks,” stories of the Pequot Wars, great explorations and whaling voyages, living through the nation’s wars and devastating natural events.

In attendance were some 1973 charter members, and local historians such as William Peterson (“Mystic Built”), as well as writers Robert Welt, Ruth Crocker, and Lou Allyn, all well known here in The Mystic Times.

State Rep. Aundre Bumgardner, D-Groton, also attended. Music was generously donated by Mystic Vinyl DJ, and the venue, the Mystic Shipyard’s Yachting Club, was donated to the cause by Mystic Shipyard, both setting the stage for an event that celebrated the past and embraced a future commitment to preserving Mystic’s rich heritage.

On tap for the future, the society will revive downtown walking tours (there are self-guided tours on the Society’s website (www.mystichistory.org), and are making plans to conduct a series of oral histories.

An upcoming “Mystic Artists” walking tour will be held on Oct. 21 (space limited, call 860-536-4779 ). The society’s series of monthly lectures and talks remain popular (September to May), as do their publications, which can be purchased in Bank Square Books in downtown Mystic, or at the Downes Building at 74 High St.

What else? What about reopening on a regular schedule the old Academy schoolhouse to student groups? How about reenactment dinners? Any chance you might fancy dining on what our local whaling ship captains might have done in their quarters aboard their ships?

Lobscouse (a stew made with salted beef) and spotted dog (sweetened soda bread pudding with currants ), anyone? (By oil lamp, of course). Although these ideas haven’t been realized yet, anything is possible with imagination!

To become a member and/or volunteer, call 860-536-4779 or email info@mystichistory.org and check out the society’s website at www.mystichistory.org.

C.S. Casale is a member of the Mystic River Historical Society.