The American Historical Society Museum is comprised of a Living Museum, the Pine Grove School, the History Room located at the Avon Public Library and the Derrin House currently under restoration. The Living Museum was originally a schoolhouse that opened in 1823 and used until 1938. Local citizens worked to save it from demolition in 1981 and helped to dismantle and restore the structure where it is currently located on East Main Street next to the Avon Public Library. The Pine Grove School is located along Route 167 at the corner of Harris and West Avon Road. The structure represents an early 20th century schoolhouse.
Built in 1852 and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1996, this house is justly famous. The square and ornate white and green structure occupies a commanding spot with excellent views. The Palmers used to identify incoming ships from the cupola.
The Henry Whitfield State Museum is Connecticut's oldest house that decades ago served as a home and fort for the community. Today it stands a prominent example of Colonial Revival restoration. Since 1899, the house has been operated by the state and restored by architects Norman Isham and J. Frederick Kelly. The site is home to three buildings, including the visitors' center. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the houses three stories, all filled with original furnishings and artifacts dating back to the 17th century. The museum hosts several city events throughout year and is open to school and community groups year-round by appointment.
Come to the Salmon Brook Historical Society to find out about Granby's history. The historical society has a research library containing information about many families of Granby and is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to noon. It also features houses built more than 200 years ago, which are now used as museums for the public. These homes have antique artifacts dated back to the 18th century, which are also featured in the gift shop, and are open for tours every Sunday from mid-May through mid-October. Call ahead to arrange tours for large groups. The society also offers a work day for volunteers every Thursday morning.
Located at the Bush-Holley Historic Site, the Greenwich Historical Society features a research library and archives with 1,200 linear feet of archival material. It also houses the Vanderbilt Education Center. A variety of after-school and summer camp programs, storytelling events and tours are offered.
The Historical Society of Glastonbury was established in 1936 to preserve the town's historical heritage and to display it in an educational and entertaining manner. Its museum, located in the former town hall at 1944 Main Street, houses exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to early 20th century items. The society maintains an extensive schedule of house tours and walking tours, and hosts the annual Farm Festival and Antiques Festival.
What better place to learn about the rich history of the town of Cheshire than the Cheshire Historical Society? It is located within the Hitchcock Phillips House and is open to the public on Sunday afternoons. However, the curator is also happy to schedule special interest appointments and group tours.
Although hours are limited at the house, the historical society's website offers a great deal of information regarding its events and exhibits. Photos, videos, documents, and an informative video can be found there as well. Be sure to download the historical town map and then take the self-guided walk around downtown.
During winter hours, (Jan. - March) individuals interested in touring the house or using the society reference materials should call the curator at 203-272-8771 for an appointment. The volunteer staff is happy to accommodate visitors by appointment on either weekdays or weekends.
The Stamford Historical Society exists to preserve the happenings of the region's illustrious past. This exciting research and educational institution can be found on High Ridge Road near the corner of Scofieldtown Road. The facility contains a library of research and geneology and displays exhibits of the past, present and future. There is also a gift shop located on the ground floor. Visit its website to learn about volunteer opportunities and more.
The Harrison House is a historical landmark in Branford, erected in 1724 on two acres of picturesque land. The fuly-restored house offers visitors a look into daily life in the Colonial Era, featuring furniture, household items and more from the period. The grounds also feature a colonial-style herb garden and barn, and one room in Harrison House has been converted into a museum of Branford's unique history.
Trumbull Historical Society is a museum and research library dedicated to preserving Turmbull's history and educating residents on its past. The museum sits at the site of the first settlement in Trumbull. There is a bookstore and a gift shop which are open the first and third Sundays of the month, or by appointment.
