Tour the historic homes in Essex

Tour the historic homes in Essex

Connecticut is well known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. One of the best ways to experience this is by taking a tour of the state’s historic homes. There are numerous well-preserved homes that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, each with its own unique story to tell. Here are some of the best historic homes to visit in Connecticut.

The Henry Whitfield State Museum

The Henry Whitfield State Museum in Guilford is the oldest house in Connecticut, dating back to 1639. The house was built by Reverend Henry Whitfield, who was the leader of the first group of English Puritans who settled in Guilford. The house has been restored to its original 17th-century appearance and contains a collection of Puritan furniture and artifacts.

The Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum

The Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum in Wethersfield is made up of three historic homes that have been preserved and restored to their original appearance. The homes were all built in the 18th century and belonged to prominent families in the area. The museum offers tours of each home, as well as exhibits on life in colonial Connecticut.

The Butler-McCook House & Garden

The Butler-McCook House & Garden in Hartford is a historic home that has been restored to its original appearance from the mid-19th century. The home belonged to the Butler and McCook families, who were prominent in Hartford society. The house contains many original furnishings and artifacts from the period, as well as an extensive garden.

The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center

The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center in Hartford is the former home of the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” The house has been preserved and restored to its appearance when Stowe lived there, and now serves as a museum dedicated to her life and work. The center offers tours of the house, exhibits on Stowe’s life and work, and a research library.

The Nathan Hale Homestead

The Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry was the home of American patriot Nathan Hale, who famously said, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” The house has been restored to its original 18th-century appearance and contains many original furnishings and artifacts. The homestead also offers tours of the property and exhibits on Nathan Hale’s life and work.

The Stanley-Whitman House

The Stanley-Whitman House in Farmington is a historic home that was built in the mid-18th century. The house belonged to the Stanley and Whitman families, who were prominent in Farmington society. The home has been restored to its original appearance and contains many original furnishings and artifacts from the period. The museum also offers tours of the property and exhibits on life in colonial Connecticut.

In conclusion, Connecticut’s historic homes are a must-see for anyone interested in the state’s rich history and beautiful architecture. From the oldest house in the state to the former homes of prominent families, each historic home has its own unique story to tell. Whether you are a history buff or simply enjoy beautiful homes, a tour of Connecticut’s historic homes is an experience you won’t forget.