Connecticut - Historic Homes and Sites

Adams Schoolhouse
Westport Road
Easton, CT

Open: Memorial Day, the Christmas season, and other times by appointment.

A mid-19th century 1 room school house, complete with furnishings and trappings from the period.

Bates Scofield House
45 Old Kings Highway North
Darien, CT
Phone: 203-655-9233

Open: Thursday and Sunday 2 - 4 pm

Headquarters of the Darien Historical Society, this saltbox was built in 1736, and is now maintained by the society with exhibits of 18th century furniture, costumes and a quilt collection. A working herb garden is grown outside the home. Small admission fee for tours.

Boothe Memorial Park & Museum
5774 Main St. Putney
Stratford, CT  06614  
Phone: 203-381-2046

This 32-acre former homestead of the Boothe Family (1663-1949) offers with picnic facilities, rose garden, and wedding garden. Buildings on National Historic Landmark site with displays of early farm equipment, carriages and baskets; trolley history, toll booth exhibit. Hours: Park grounds are open year-round, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Museums and displays are open June 1 through October 1, Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Free admission.

Bush Holley House
39 Strickland Road
Greenwich, CT
Phone: 203-869-6899

Open: Tuesday-Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

The circa 1730 National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House was home to Connecticut’s first art colony. The site was the home and business headquarters of colonial merchant and mill owner David Bush, his wife Sarah, their children and their slaves. From 1890 to 1920, the house was run as a boarding house and was a gathering place for artists, writers, and editors. Admission: adults, $6; seniors and students, $4; children under age 6 and members, free. Free admission on Tuesday

Catharine B. Mitchell Museum and Captain David Judson House
967 Academy Hill
Stratford, CT  06615  
Phone: 203-378-0630

Open: June–October; Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Catharine B. Mitchell Museum exhibits local Native American artifacts and displays devoted to early town government, early African-American history, changing exhibits. Captain David Judson House (1750) furnished with period accessories and furniture. Open June through October, Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors, $4; students, $2.

Coley Homestead
104 Weston Road
Weston, CT
Phone: 203-226-1804

Open: Tours by appointment

19th century farm, with historical tools, woodworking implements, barn and authentic outhouses. Free admission.

East Village Barn Hill Schoolhouse
Old Tannery and Wheeler Roads
Monroe, CT

Phone: 203-261-8554 Open: By appointment only

1 room schoolhouse, built in 1790. Contains authentic colonial and victorian school material.

East Village Meeting Hall
East Village and Barn Hill Roads
Monroe, CT
Phone: 203-268-5048

Open: By appointment only

Completed in 1811, this meeting house features an antique pump organ.

Eliot Beardsley Homestead
31 Great Ring Road
Monroe, CT
Phone: 203-268-5048

Historic home, built in 1760. Museum exhibits.

Fairfield Historical Society
636 Old Post Road
Fairfield, CT
Phone: 203-259-1598

Open: Monday - Friday, 9:30 am - 4:30 pm; Sat and Sun, 1 - 5 pm

350 years of Fairfield history is detailed here through permanent and changing exhibits. The society is also home to a library and gift shop. Walking tours are scheduled throughout the year. Admission: Adults $3, children $1.

Hoyt - Barnum House
713 Bedford Street
Stamford, CT
Phone: 203-329-1183

Open: May - September, Sundays 12 - 4 pm; also by appointment

Originally a blacksmith's home, now restored and set up for exhibits. A donation from visitors is requested.

Hurlbutt Street Schoolhouse
157 Hurlbutt Street
Wilton, CT
Phone: 203-762-7275

Open: Tours by appointment only

A one room schoolhouse built in 1834. A donation is requested.

Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum
Mathews Park, 295 West Ave.
Norwalk, CT  06850  
Phone: 203-838-9799

Open: Mid-March to January 1; Wednesday-Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment

America's first chateau; 62-room Victorian palace with stenciled walls, inlaid woodwork and skylit rotunda; gift shop. National Historic Landmark. Guided and audio tours. Admission: Adults, $8; seniors and students, $5; children under age 12, free

Mill Hill Historic Park
Wall Street and East Avenue
Norwalk, CT
Phone: 203-846-0525

Open: Memorial Day - Labor Day, Sundays 1 - 4 pm

Sites include the Governor Thomas Fitch Law Office, Cemetery, Schoolhouse, and Town House Museum. A donation is requested from visitors.

New Canaan Historical Society
13 Oenoke Ridge
New Canaan, CT  06840  
Phone: 203-966-1776

Open: Town House: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Other buildings: summer hours, Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; other months, Wednesday and Thursday, 2-4 p.m. Call for Sunday hours.

The historic society maintains several buildings, housing a variety of exhibits. Buildings include the old Town House, with its costume collection, changing exhibits, library of genealogy and local history; the Pharmacy (1845); the Hanford-Silliman House (1764), the Rock Schoolhouse (1799), the John Rogers Sculpture Studio (1878), and the Tool Museum and Print Shop. Donation requested.

Ogden House and Gardens
1520 Bronson Road
Fairfield, CT  06824 - 2828  
Phone: 203-259-1598

Built in the 18th century, this traditional New England farmhouse is host to exhibits detailing the daily lives of colonial Americans. The property also has a wildflower garden and a kitchen garden.
Open: Sundays, June to September, 1 to 4 p.m. and by appointment. Fee charged.

Putnam Cottage
243 East Putnam Avenue
Greenwich, CT  06830  
Phone: 203-869-9697

Known as Knapp’s Tavern during the American Revolution, this Colonial house dates to the early 1700s. It is furnished with period antiques and artifacts and includes a Colonial herb garden and carriage shed. Located on the Boston Post Road, it has been a tourist destination for almost 100 years.
Hours: Tours by appointment only during January, February and March. In season, open Sundays, 1-4 p.m. and by appointment. Call for group tour information. Fee charged.

Seely - Dibble - Pinkney House
Pinkney Park
Rowayton, CT

Open: By appointment only

Home, built in 1820, set on the water. A barn and an oyster shed are also on the site.

Shelton History Center
70 Ripton Road
Shelton, CT
Phone: 203-925-1803

Open: Second and fourth Sunday of each month.

A group of buildings set on 1 acre, including the Marks-Brownson House (1803), the Trap Falls Schoolhouse (1872) and the Wilson Barn. The Barn exhibits historic farming and gardening tools. Admission: $2 adults, $1 children.

Stamford Historical Society Museum
1508 High Ridge Road
Stamford, CT  06903  
Phone: 203-329-1183

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Permanent and changing exhibits, principally local history. Research and genealogy library. Hoyt-Barnum House (c.1699), 713 Bedford St., restored blacksmith’s home, open by appt. Thrift shop. Admission: Adults, $5; students, $3.

Stamford Museum & Nature Center
39 Scofieldtown Road
Stamford, CT  06903  
Phone: 203-322-1646

Open: Monday-Saturday and holidays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Main Building galleries closed Mondays January to March.

Experience nature, science and the outdoors at this 118-acre site. Includes New England working farm, hiking trails, picnic area, nature's playground, boardwalk (accessible to wheelchairs), galleries for interactive exhibitions with hands-on area for children, two stores, special events, planetarium. Observatory Friday evenings (weather permitting). Admission: Adults, $6; seniors and children age 4 to 14, $5.

The Barnum Museum
820 Main St.
Bridgeport, CT  06604  
Phone: 203-331-1104

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30; Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.

Dedicated to the life of Circus imnpresario Phineas Taylor Barnum and those who were influenced by his presence in their lives. 1892 building houses exhibits including a miniature circus model, ancient mummy, historic costumes, Tom Thumb carriages. Museum store. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors and students, $4; children age 4-17, $3.

The Connecticut Freedom Trail
Sites throughout Connecticut

The Connecticut Freedom Trail is list of over 60 historic locations throughout the state. Each location played an important role in the African-American journey from slavery to freedom in Connecticut. Places in addition to those listed on the Amistad Trail include historic homes, churches, graves, monuments, and sites on the Underground Railroad.

Walters AME Zion Church
423 Broad Street
Bridgeport, CT

Established in 1882, the church is a focus for the city's "Little Liberia" community, important to Bridgeport's Afro-American history.

Weir Farm National Historic Site
735 Nod Hill Road
Wilton, CT
Phone: 203-834-1896

Open: Year Round; April - October, daily; November - March, Mon - Fri

A national park that was the impressionist artist J. Alden Weir's summer home. The park hosts many exhibits and special programs. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking and nature trails.

Wheeler House
25 Avery Place
Westport, CT
Phone: 203-222-1424

Open: Tues - Sat, 10 am - 3 pm

Home of the Westport Historical Society, this Victorian has one unique feature: An octagonal barn. Visitors will also see a fully furnished kitchen, bedrrom and parlor. A donation is requested.

Wilton Heritage Museum
249 Danbury Road (Route 7)
Wilton, CT  06897  
Phone: 203-762-7257

Open: Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m. for special exhibitions; call for tour and exhibition schedules.

Two 18th-century classic center-chimney houses feature period rooms furnished to show the development of domestic life in New England homes 1740-1910. 19th-century barn contains changing exhibits, toy loft, costume and textile collection. Blacksmith's shop, tool exhibition. Admission: Adults, $4; senior, $3; children, free.

Amasa Day House
Moodus Green (Routes 149 and 151)
East Haddam, CT  06469  
Phone: 860-247-8996

Open: Mid-May to mid-October, Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

A Federal style house (1816) remained in the hands of Day's heirs until 1967. Furnished primarily with Day family possessions. Admission: Adults, $4; children, $2.

Andrews Homestead
424 West Main Street
Meriden, CT
Phone: 203-237-5079

Open: By appointment

Austin F. Williams House
127 Main Street
Farmington, CT

A local abolitionist, Austin Williams, built this site as a home for the Amistad Africans during their stay in Farmington. He later built his own home nearby and converted the first structure into a carriage house. The home also served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Barnes Museum
85 North Main Street
Southington, CT  06489  
Phone: 860-628-5426

Open: Monday-Wednesday and Friday, 1-5 p.m.; Thursday, 1-7 p.m.; September-June, first and last Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Built in 1836, this house belonged to the same family for over a century. Exhibits feature original furniture and household items, as well as a historical library. Admission: $2.

Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden
9 Main Street
Bethlehem, CT  06751  
Phone: 203-266-7596

Built in 1754, this Colonial home is filled with American and European antiques. The property offers garden lovers a formal parterre garden with a collection of roses, peonies, and lilacs.
Hours: May–October, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fee charged.

Benjamin Douglas House
11 South Main Street
Middletown, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Benton Homestead
Metcalf Road
Tolland, CT
Phone: 860-870-9599

Open: May - Mid October, Sunday 1-4 pm

This 1720 colonial was used as a prison for Hessian soldiers during the Revolutionary war. The original paneling and architecture are still in place. Admission: Adults $2.

Brace/Stephen House
1349 Main Street
Newington, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Buttolph-Williams House
249 Broad Street
Wethersfield, CO
Phone: 860-529-0612

Open: May 1 - October 31, Wed - Mon, 10 am - 4 pm.

A mansion built during the late 19th century, with furnishings on display.

Canal House and Pitkin Basin
128 Garden Street
Farmington, CT

In this spot, one of the Amistad Africans, Foone, lost his life. In his memory, the other Africans began their journey to other towns to raise money for their trip back to Africa at this site.

Canton Historical Museum
11 Front Street
Collinsville, CT  06019  
Phone: 860-693-2793

Open: April-November, Wednesday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m. and Thursday, 1-8 p.m.; December-March, Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

The history of Canton is chronicled in this museum. Collins Company tools and exhibits, Canton history, Victorian antiques and clothes, toys, dolls, farming equipment, railroad diorama, general store and post office, research library. Admissions: Adults, $3; seniors, $2; children (age 6-15), $1; 5 and under, free.

Cheney Homestead
106 Hartford Road
Manchester, CT

Telephone: (860) 643-5588 Open: Thurs and Sun, 1 - 5 pm (closed holidays), and by appointment

Built in 1780, the home was the birthplace of the Cheney brothers, the founders of the Connecticut silk industry. The home contains 18th and 19th century furniture and artwork. There is also a restored 18th century schoolhouse on the property. Admission $1, adults; children free.

Company of Military Historians
Westbrook Place, North Main Street
Westbrook, CT
Phone: 860-399-9460

Comstock Covered Bridge
Comstock Bridge Road, off Route 16
East Hampton, CT
Phone: 860-267-2519

Open: Daily, dawn to dusk

Adjacent to Salmon River State Park, this covered bridge is one of only two remaining in Connecticut. The bridge crosses the Salmon River, and is open to pedestrians only.

Connecticut Fire Museum
58 North Road
East Windsor, CT  06088  
Phone: 860-623-4732

Open: May and June, Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; July and August, Monday and Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; September-October, Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

Exhibits detail the history of firefighting. Includes models and authentic historic firefighting trucks and equipment. Adults, $7; seniors, $6; children age 6-12, $5; children age 5 and younger, free.

Connecticut Historical Society
1 Elizabeth Street at Asylum Avenue
Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-236-5621

Open: Year-round, except Holidays, Tuesday - Sunday, 12 - 5 pm

Established in 1825, The Connecticut Historical Society is a non-profit organization, which collects, preserves and interprets the history of the diverse people - past and present - who have made Connecticut their home. The Society houses a museum with one of the largest collections of Connecticut furnture, silver, pewter, costumes, graphic materials and tavern signs in existence. A library holds 100,000 manuscripts and nearly 3 million volumes. Events and lectures are scheduled throughout the year. A current exhibit, Amistad -- A True Story of Freedom, is a comprehensive look at the African's revolt on the slave ship Amistad in 1839, and the events that followed. The interactive, multimedia exhibition features 5 galleries, historic artifacts, and special sound and light effects.

Connecticut River Museum
67 Main St., Steamboat Dock
Essex, CT  06426  
Phone: 860-767-8269

Open: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Housed in an 1878 Steamboat Dock warehouse located on the waterfront, the museum tells the Connecticut River Valley story in four galleries, with a working reproduction of the American Turtle, America’s first submarine. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $6; seniors and students, $5; children age 6-12, $3; 5 and under free.

Connecticut Trolley Museum
58 North Road (Route 140)
East Windsor, CT  06088  
Phone: 860-627-6540

Open: Charters from January through March; April to Memorial Day, Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m.; Memorial day to Labor Day, Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Sundays in October, Pumpkin Patch rides

Three-mile round trip ride on antique trolleys. Tour the Visitor's Center display and stationary trolleys. Gift shop, deli and cafe. Admission: Adults, $7; seniors, $6; children age 2-12, $4. Includes admission to the nearby Connecticut Fire Museum.

Day-Lewis Museum
158 Main Street
Farmington, CT  06032  
Phone: 860-678-1645

Open: March – November, Wednesday, 2:30-4:30 p.m.; closed August

Yale University-owned Indian archaeology museum displaying artifacts found on site. Housed in authentic post and beam building, last of Tunxis Indian homes. Adjacent dig site. Admission Adults, $2; seniors and children, $1.

Elijah Lewis House
1 Mountain Spring Road
Farmington, CT

A privately owned home that was once a stop on the Underground Railroad. Not open to the public.

Enoch Kelsey House
1702 Main Street
Newington, CT
Phone: 860-666-7118

Open: May - October, Sat - Sun, 1 - 4 pm; Jan - Feb, Sun 1 - 4 pm

This home, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in 1799. The home is decorated with hand-painted murals, and still contains the original fireplaces, a beehive oven and paneling. $2 admission.

Faith Congregational Church
2030 North Main Street
Hartford, CT

One of earliest African-American churches founded in Connecticut.

Farmington Historical Society
Main Street
Farmington, CT
Phone: 860-678-1654

The Farmington Historical Society collects information and documents relating to the history of the area. They offer guided tours of the town's historical locations, including a tour focusing specifically on Amistad sites.

Fire Museum
230 Pine Street
Manchester, CT  06040  
Phone: 860-649-9436

Open: Mid-April-Mid-November, Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Located in turn-of-the-century firehouse with hand- and horse-pulled firefighting equipment, 1860 steam fire engine, 1915 water tower, antique firefighting items, reference library, gift shop. Admission: Adults, $4; seniors and firefighters, $2; children age 5 and older, $1.

First Church Cemetery
Route 151
East Haddam, CT

Venture Smith, a slave who purchased his freedom as well as his family's, was buried here in the 18th century.

First Church of Christ Congregational
Main Street
Farmington, CT

One of the oldest churches in Northern Connecticut, the structure is a National Historic Landmark. Church members were active supporters of the Amistad Africans, providing them with housing, clothing and education while they lived in Farmington.

Francis Gillette House
540 Bloomfield Avenue
Bloomfield, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Frank T. Simpson House
27 Keney Terrace
Hartford, CT

Simpson holds a special place in Connecticut's history: He was the first employee of the first Connecticut state civil right agency.

Gay-Hoyt House Museum
18 Main Street (Route 41)
Sharon, CT  06069  
Phone: 860-364-5688

Open: Tuesday-Friday, 1-4 p.m. or by appointment

Built in 1775, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring furniture, paintings, photographs, textile collection, hands-on history room for children, changing exhibits. Admission: free.

Gaylordsville Historical Society
P.O. Box 25
Gaylordsville, CT  06755  
Phone: 860-350-0300

Open: July - August, Sundays, 2 - 5 pm

General Mansfield House
151 Main Street
Middletown, CT
Phone: 860-346-0746

Open: Sunday 2 - 4:30 pm, Monday 1 - 4 pm

Exhibits highlight Middletown history, particularly the Civil War era. Admission: $2 adults, $1 children under 13.

General William Hart House
350 Main Street
Old Saybrook, CT  06475  
Phone: 860-388-2622

A Georgian-style Colonial built in 1767, featuring an herb garden and intricate decor. Of particular interest are the eight corner fireplaces. Notice the nine-window facade with 12 over 12 panes, the cornices, cornerboards and graduated clapboards.
Hours: June 12- September 13, Friday - Sunday, 12:30 - 4 p.m. Donation is requested.

Gillette Castle State Park
67 River Road, off Route 82
East Haddam, CT  06423  
Phone: 860-526-2336

Open: Mansion is open Memorial Day weekend - December, hours vary; park open year-round

One of the most remarkable parks in the state, Gillette Castle State Park features a mansion built in 1919 for actor William Gillette, who was famous for his role as Sherlock Holmes. Tours are given on days that the mansion is open (call for exact times). The park itself is set on the Connecticut River and features fishing areas, short hiking trails and picnic spots.

Glebe House and Gertrude Jekyll Garden
Hollow Road / P.O. Box 245
Woodbury, CT  06798  
Phone: 203-263-2855

Farmhouse built in 1740 is set in the picturesque Litchfield Hills in historic Woodbury’s village center. It offers a glimpse of Revolutionary War-era Connecticut. Birthplace of the Episcopal Church in the New World and graced by the only existing American garden planned by Gertrude Jekyll.
Hours: May-October, Wednesday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m.; November, weekends only, 1–4 p.m. Fee charged.

Glenbrook
11 Mountain Spring Road
Farmington, CT

Built in 1832 by John Treadwell Norton, who became a major supporter of the Amistad Africans. The house is currently a private residence.

Gunn Memorial Library & Museum
Wykeham Road and Route 47
Washington, CT  06793  
Phone: 860-868-7756

Open: May-December, Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m., closed major holidays. January-April by appointment only.

Local history museum in c.1781 house with changing exhibits. 1908 library includes Connecticut Room with state, local, and geneaological books. Admission: Donation.

Harriet Beecher Stowe House
77 Forest Street
Hartford, CT  06105  
Phone: 860-522-9258

Open: Tours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.; open on Mondays, Memorial Day to Columbus Day and December. Closed major holidays.

Her words changed the world with "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the groundbreaking anti-slavery novel (1852). Tour the Victorian Gothic home (1871), the Katharine Seymour Day House (1884), and the Victorian grounds and gardens. Stowe Visitor Center showcases exhibitions, museum shop. Admission: Adults, $8; seniors,$7; children age 4-12, $4.

Harrison House
124 Main Street
Branford, CT
Phone: 203-488-4828

Open: June 1 - October 1, Thu - Sat, 2 - 5 pm

This traditional colonial saltbox, built in 1724, has been restored and accurately decorated with 18th century furniture and decor. Outside the home, visitors will find a barn exhibiting antique farming implements and an herb garden. Free admission.

Hart Porter Homestead
456 Porter Street
Manchester, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Hartford Ancient Burying Ground
Gold and Main Streets
Hartford, CT

Open: Year-round

In this cemetery visitors will find the graves of Thomas Hooker (founder of Hartford) and other settlers, as well as many Revolutionary War soldiers. Admission is free. Tours are available July - Aug at 1:45 pm.

Hatheway House
55 South Main Street
Suffield, CT  06078  

This mansion is a showplace for the history of the 18th century including a formal Colonial garden. Exhibits include French wallpaper and neo-classical architecture.
Hours: Open for afternoon tours on designated days from May 15 to October 15, or by prior appointment. Call for current schedule. Fee charged.

Hicks-Stearns Museum
42 Tolland Green
Tolland, CT  06084  
Phone: 860-875-7552

Open: Mid-March to mid-December by appointment only

This structure has an interesting history: Originally a tavern built in the 18th century, it was later turned into a 19th century home. The house contains antique family heirlooms, which are on display during much of the year. In December, the site becomes a Victorian Christmas Open House.

Hill-Stead Museum
35 Mountain Road
Farmington, CT  06032  
Phone: 860-677-4787

Open: May-October, Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; November-April, Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

National Historic Landmark. Colonial Revival style house (1901) set on 150 acres with sunken garden. Collection of French Impressionist paintings, decorative arts and original furnishings. Hour-long guided tour. Admission: Adults, $9; seniors, $8; students, $7; children age 6-12, $4.

Hillside Cemetery
Route 44
North Canaan, CT

19th century cemetery features the graves of the Freeland family. Milo Freeland is said to have been the first African-American to enlist as a Union soldier during the Civil War.

Historical Museum of Medicine and Dentistry
230 Scarborough Street
Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-236-5613

Open: Mon - Fri, 10 am - 4 pm

This museum details the medical and dental instruments and medications of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. There is a library on the premises. Donations from visitors are accepted.

Hotchkiss - Fyler House
192 Main Street
Torrington, CT
Phone: 860-482-8260

Open: April 1 - December 31, Mon - Fri 9 am - 4 pm, Sat 10 am - 3 pm

Built in 1900, this mansion is elaborately decorated, and features furnishings and family artifacts. Permanent and changing exhibits on local history. Admission: $2 adults, children under 12 free.

Huguenot House
Martin Park, 307 Burnside Avenue
East Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-568-6178

Open: Memorial Day - September, Thursday and Sunday, 1-4 pm

Historic property features a restored colonial home onced own by a saddlemaker, a schoolhouse built in 1820, and an 1850 blacksmith shop.

Institute for American Indian Studies
88 Curtis Road
Washington, CT
Phone: 860-868-0518

Open: Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm, Sunday, 12 - 5 pm

The institute focuses on the history of native peoples in America. The permanent exhibit, "As We Tell Our Stories: Living Tradition in the Algonkian Peoples of New England" features artifacts from as far back as 10,000 years, a simulated archaeological site, a recreated 17th century Algonkian village, rock shelter and garden, and a furnished longhouse. Topical films are shown on weekends.

Isaiah Tuttle House
4040 Torringford St.
Torrington, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Iwo Jima Memorial Monument
Ella Grasso Boulevard
New Britain, CT
Phone: 860-666-5521

Open: Daily, 9 am - sunset

Commemorates the American soldiers killed at Iwo Jima.

James Mars' Grave
Center Cemetery, Old Colony Road
Norfolk, CT

An 18th century African-American slave, Mars was one of the first to become free under Connecticut's landmark gradual emancipation law. He eventually wrote his own autobiography.

James Pharmacy
2 Pennywise Lane
Old Saybrook, CT

This turn-of-the-century pharmacy was run by Anna Louise James, the first African-American woman in the United States to get a pharmacist license. She operated the pharmacy from 1911 to 1967.

John Brown Birthplace
John Brown Road
Torrington, CT

Perhaps the most famous abolitionist of the Civil War era, Brown became reknowned for his raid on Harper's Ferry, VA. His roots and his life, however, began in this home in Torrington.

Joseph Rainey House
299 Palisado Avenue
Windsor, CT

Home of the first African-American to be elected to Congress as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Kellogg-Eddy House
679 Willard Avenue
Newington, CT
Phone: 860-666-7118

Open: Mar - Dec, Sat-Sun 1 - 4 pm; Jan - Feb, Sun, 1 - 4 pm

This 1808 colonial home was built by General Martin Kellogg III. The restored property features a parlor with hand-carved woodwork. A visitor donation is requested.

Lock 12 Historical Park
487 North Brooksvale Road (Route 42)
Cheshire, CT  06410  
Phone: 203-272-2743

Open: Biking trail and picnic area open year-round, call for museum schedule.

Restored section of Farmington Canal (1828-48). Park also includes museum, lockkeeper's house, helicoidal bridge, 2.9-mile hiking/biking trail, picnic area. Admission: Free.

Luddy/Taylor Connecticut Valley Tobacco Museum
Northwest Park, 135 Lang Rd.
Windsor, CT  06095  
Phone: 860-285-1888

Open: March – Mid-December, Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, noon-4 p.m. and by appointment

Displays of artifacts and history of "Tobacco Valley." Tobacco curing shed houses exhibits of early and modern equipment. Other facility exhibits photographs, writings, and other documents. Admission: Free.

Martha A. Parsons House
1387 Enfield Street
Enfield, CT
Phone: 860-745-6064

Open: May - October, Sundays 2 - 4:30 pm, and by appointment.

Built in 1782, this house focuses on the life of one family over the period of 180 years. The only house in the U.S. with George Washington Memorial wallpaper (produced following the Revolutionary War). Open in December for a Christmas display. Free admission.

Meriden Historical Society
540 West Main Street
Meriden, CT
Phone: 203-639-1913

Open: By appointment

For over a century, the historical society has been preserving artifacts and documents detailing the history and life in the local area.

Merwinsville Hotel
Browns Forge Road
Gaylordsville, CT
Phone: 860-354-5986

Open: July - September, Sundays 2 - 4 pm

This hotel was finished in 1843, and holds exhibits of an antique wine cellar, railroad station waiting room, and hotel artifacts and memorabilia. Admission is free, donations are accepted.

Mine Hill Preserve
Mine Hill Road
Roxbury, CT

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the preserve is set on a former iron ore mine and blast furnace. Granite quarries on the property provided stones used in the building of the Brooklyn Bridge and Grand Central Station in New York City. A looping trail of under 4 miles will take hikers along the Donkey Trail (where donkeys used to pull ore wagons), past mine shafts and tunnels, and old mine and furnace foundations. Side trails will take hikers to the granite quarries.

Museum of Connecticut History
231 Capitol Ave.
Hartford, CT  06106  
Phone: 860-566-3056

Open: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Closed on state holidays

Historic documents, including Connecticut's Royal Charter, are just part of the exhibit material in this museum. Special exhibits feature Colt firearms, Connecticut's Governors and changing exhibits. Admission: free.

Museum on the Green
1944 Main Street
Glastonbury, CT  06033  
Phone: 860-633-6890

Open: Monday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; third Sunday of each month, 1-4 p.m.; and by appointment

Former Town Hall (c. 1840) displays local history, early industry, Native American artifacts, changing exhibits; genealogical and research library. Adjacent to old town cemetery (1690). Admission: free.

Nathan Hale School House
Main Street
East Haddam, CT
Phone: 860-873-9547

Open: Memorial Day - Labor Day, weekends and holidays, 2 - 4 pm

Revolutionary War hero and CT state hero Nathan Hale taught in this one-room schoolhouse during 1773 - 1774. Set in the rear of St. Stephen's Church, which contains one of the oldest church bells in the U.S., cast in 815 AD. Admission: 25 cents.

New Britain Industrial Museum
185 Main Street
New Britain, CT  06051  
Phone: 860-832-8654

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 2-5 p.m.; Wednesday, noon-5 p.m.; and by appointment

This history of manufacturing in Central Connecticut is detailed in this museum, featuring exhibits of products made in the region over the past 200 years. Admission: free.

New Milford Historical Society Museum
6 Aspetuck Avenue
New Milford, CT  06776  
Phone: 860-354-3069

Open: May-October, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. and by appointment

Main gallery contains works by artists Ralph Earl and Richard Jennys, Connecticut furniture, New Milford pottery. Boardman Store (1796). Knapp House (c.1810). Special events; research on local history and genealogy. Admission: Adults, $3; students, $2.

Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
227 South Main Street
West Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-521-5362

Open: Thursday-Monday, 1-4 p.m., closed Tuesday and Wednesday

The restored 18th-century birthplace of author and educator Noah Webster offers tours of the historic home, changing exhibits about West Hartford, a gift shop, and public programs. It is a National Historic Landmark. Admission: Adults $6, AAA members and seniors $5, Students 6-18 or with ID $4, children 5 and under free.

Noden-Reed Park Museum
58 West Street
Windsor Locks, CT  06096  
Phone: 860-627-9212

Open: May-October, Sunday, 1 -5 p.m. and by appointment

A 22-acre park with 1840 house and 1826 brick barn contain period artifacts. Site of Connecticut's first Christmas tree. Admission: free.

North Cemetery
North Main Street
Hartford, CT

Historic 19th century graveyard includes those of several African-Americans who fought in the Civil War.

Northeast States Civilian Conservation Corps Museum
166 Chestnut Hill Road (Route 190)
Stafford Springs, CT  06076  
Phone: 860-684-3013

Open: Memorial Day-Labor Day, Saturday, Sunday, holidays, noon-4 p.m.

Housed in original (c.1935) CCC camp building with documents and memorabilia. Exhibits include campsite life, work areas, photographs, equipment, and tools. Admission: Free.

Old Manchester Museum
126 Cedar Street
Manchester, CT  06040  
Phone: 860-647-9983

Open: Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m. and by appointment

Local historical artifacts including Pitkin Glass Works, Cheney Brothers Silk Mills, Bon Ami Soap Co., military memorial. Manchester Sports Hall of Fame, research and genealogy library, gift shop. Admission: Adults, $2; children age 16 and younger, free.

Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine
Newgate Road
East Granby, CO
Phone: 860-566-3005

Open: Mid May - October 31, Wed - Sun, 10 am - 4:30 pm

On this site, in 1707, the first copper mine in America was started. In 1773 a prison was also constructed at the site, where supporters of Great Britain were held during the American Revolution. A tour of the mine, as well as numerous exhibits are open to the public. The site also features hiking trails, a picnic area and is a National Landmark. Admission: Adults $3, seniors and children over 5 $1.50.

Old State House
800 Main Street
Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-522-6766

Open: Tues - Fri, 11 am - 5 pm; Sat, 10 am- 5 pm. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Connecticut's original statehouse is the oldest in the U.S. Many historic events took place here, including the signing of the first written Constitution in the nation, and the Amistad and Prudence Crandall trials. The site contains a the restored, original Senate chamber and a Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington. Free admission.

Old Stone Schoolhouse
Coppermine and Red Oak Hill Roads
Farmington, CT
Phone: 860-674-9931

Open: May - October, Sundays, 2-4 pm

One-room school, built in 1790, with a chapel and community hall added later. Exhibits feature the history of Farmington and the surrounding area.

Oliver Ellsworth Homestead
778 Palisado Avenue
Windsor, CT
Phone: 860-688-8717

Open: May 15 - October 15, Tues/Wed/Fri, 10 am - 5 pm

One of the "founding fathers" of our country, Ellsworth helped create the Constitution. His home, built in 1781, offers a history of the man and his family, which owned the property until 1903. Admission: Adults, $2; children under 12 free.

Palisado Cemetary
Palisado Avenue
Windsor, CT

This cemetary contains the grave of Nancy Toney, who was one of the last slaves living in Connecticut.

Pine Grove School House
West Avon Road
Avon, CT
Phone: 860-678-7821

Open: June - September, Sundays 2-4 pm and by appointment

Actively used until 1949, this schoolhouse was originally built in 1865, and has been restored. Museum includes a working wood stove, antique desks, the outhouse and the original sliding chalkboard.

Plainville Historic Center
29 Pierce Street
Plainville, CT
Phone: 860-747-0081

Open: May - December, Wed and Sat, 12 - 3:30 pm

This museum sits in the old Plainville town hall, built in 1890. Exhibits focus on Plainville history and particularly on the Farmington Canal. A museum shop sells souvenirs. A $1 per person donation is requested of visitors.

Pratt House
19 West Ave.
Essex, CT
Phone: 860-767-0681  860-767-1191

Colonial home, built in 1734, features antique American furniture and an herb garden. The house documents the life of early Essex through a single family over 200 years.
Hours: June-Labor Day, Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Fee charged.

Reverend Noah Porter House
116 Main Street
Farmington, CT

Home to the minister of the Congregational Church. The Reverend's family housed one of the three Amistad children during their stay in Connecticut. This site was also the location where the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions was founded.

Richard Alsop IV House
301 High Street
Middletown, CT
Phone: 860-685-2500

Open: Tues - Fri 12 - 4 pm, Sat - Sun 2 - 5 pm

Built in 1838, this home is an excellent example of Greek Revival architecture in the U.S. The building houses the Davison Art Center.

Riverside Cemetery
Garden Street
Farmington, CT

Historic cemetery with many 18th and 19th century graves. Of particular interest are the Indian obelisk - monument, and the grave of Foone, one of the Amistad Africans. He died during their trial and stay in Farmington. The cemetery sits along the historic Farmington Canal.