The library is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in finding out more about the rich history of Stonington and the surrounding areas. A modern facility opened in 1998, it has a comfortable reading room. The collection of rare manuscripts, books, photographs and newspapers is extensive.
Sitting right in the middle of town is the Simsbury Historical Society and its complex of buildings. The non-profit educational corporation was founded in 1911 and its first and current home was acquired in 1962. The site includes several structures all within walking distance from each other. The society also has archives and other collections that relate to early settlements in Connecticut, the founding of Simsbury, and the development of the surrounding region.
The East Haddam Historical Society, founded 49 years ago, has been at this Town Street location for 11 years; it's just around the corner from Gillette Castle, right on the Route 82 corridor. The museum has a fine collection of local and Lower Connecticut River Valley historical objects. It prides itself on its kid-friendliness.
Harkness Memorial Park holds the former mansion of Edward Harkness, a former multi-millionaire philanthropist, overlooking 230-acres of waterfront property. The mansion was purchased by Harkness in 1907, and with the help of landscape designed Beatrix Jones Farrand and over two hundred million dollars of his own money, Harkness restored the grounds into one of the most elegant sites in Connecticut.
There is admission costs from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with tours of the mansion available during that same time. The mansion hosts weddings as well, and admission is free from September to May.
The Stanton House is a preserved site and museum portraying early post-Revolutionary War life and style. This site was once a home and general store of the namesake proprietor. The house showcases antiques and home furnishings contemporary to late 18th century America. According to the town's website, this site also was once the site of the Collegiate School, an institution that grew and would later be known as Yale University.
Noank Historical Society features local archives, a library and exhibits. It is open on Tuesdays and by appointment. Call or visit the website for more information.
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 Historic Perry House of Stratford is a historic building and community space in Stratford. Managed by the nonprofit organization the Perry House Foundation, the house hosts many local charity and city events and can be rented for private events such as weddings and parties.
The Mystic Aquarium, located on Coogan Boulevard in Old Mystic, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and care for the planet's ocean life through research and education. The Aquarium features indoor and outdoor aquatic exhibits with an expansive array of sea creatures, reptiles and exotic birds, the immersion theater with daily shows, a cafe and gift shop.
Hands-on learning opportunities and classes abound through the Nautilus Live Theater, science education for kids from grades four to eight and interactive exhibits. Tickets can be purchased at an extra cost for wading with the Beluga whales and hanging with the penguins. It is located right next to Olde Mistick Village. Facility rental is available for weddings, cocktail parties, birthday parties and corporate events.