The city of Mentor will host a special presentation exploring the daily lives of those who lived through the American Revolution on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Springbrook Gardenhouse with historian/collector Todd Brighton.
Drawing from his extensive private collection, Brighton will showcase original artifacts that tell the personal stories of seven Patriot soldiers. This immersive look at our nation’s founding features authentic military gear, original portraits, and rare manuscripts, alongside early Americana like Native American trade silver, ceramics, and pewter.
Todd Brighton was born and raised in Wyandotte, Michigan. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree as a Wolcott Fellow at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. He began his federal career as a Presidential Management Fellow and spent most of his 35-years in public service as a Senior Policy Advisor with the U.S. Department of Justice.
There is a local connection; Brighton’s fourth great grandfather, Garrit Brass, served in the Revolutionary War from 1781-1783 with the Massachusetts Militia and the 1st Massachusetts Regiment of the Continental Line. He moved his family to Mentor Township in 1812. Their farm was located along what is now Garfield Road between Mentor Avenue and Johnnycake Ridge Road. Brass is interred in the Mentor Municipal Cemetery.
This is a free event sponsored by the city of Mentor. Light refreshments will be provided.
Due to the content of the presentation, and fragility of the artifacts, this event is not suited for young children.
Springbrook Gardenhouse is located at 6776 Heisley Rd, Mentor, OH 44060.