The Connecticut River Museum mourns the passing of Brenda Milkofsky, whose vision, dedication, and generosity helped shape the Museum for more than fifty years. A beloved colleague, mentor, and friend, Brenda devoted her life to preserving and sharing the stories of the Connecticut River and the people whose lives have been intertwined with it for generations.

As a highly respected Connecticut River Valley historian, Brenda possessed a rare gift for uncovering the past and bringing it vividly to life. Her love of research was matched only by her passion for storytelling. Drawn naturally to the water from an early age, she became a distinguished maritime historian whose work deepened our understanding of the River, its communities, and its enduring importance to the region.

Brenda was there from the beginning. As the Museum’s inaugural curator and later its executive director, she helped build an institution that would become a treasured steward of Connecticut River history. Among the first women in Connecticut to lead a museum, she undertook the challenging task of developing a collections policy for a brand-new organization with remarkable grace, intelligence, and foresight. Over the course of five decades, she researched, developed, and mounted exhibitions and educational programs that explored every facet of life on the River. She was instrumental in preserving the legacy of Thomas A. Stevens through the Thomas A. Stevens Library, managed the Bushnell Farm property, and played a key role in securing the Museum’s Boathouse, helping to create lasting resources for future generations.

Yet Brenda’s greatest legacy may be the spirit she instilled in the Museum itself. She believed deeply that history should be shared, experienced, and enjoyed by everyone. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she took immense pleasure in seeing the Museum grow and evolve over the years. Even in recent conversations, she delighted in hearing about new exhibitions, programs, and accomplishments. The Museum was never simply her work—it was her lifelong passion.

Brenda’s legacy lives on in every collection preserved, every exhibition mounted, every story told, and every visitor inspired to look more closely at the Connecticut River and its history. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her influence will remain woven into the fabric of the Museum she helped create and loved so dearly.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, the Milkofsky Curatorial Fund Dinner was established in her honor and continues to raise vital funds to preserve and care for the Museum’s collections. Those wishing to honor Brenda’s memory may contribute to the Milkofsky Curatorial Fund. Donations may be made through the link below or by sending a check payable to the Connecticut River Museum.

A public Memorial Service celebrating Brenda’s life and legacy will be held at the Connecticut River Museum on Sunday, July 19 at 4 p.m.