List of sites administered by the Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office facts for kids
Connecticut is a state full of amazing history! It has many special places called historic sites that help us learn about the past. These sites are like giant storybooks, showing us how people lived, worked, and changed things long ago. The Historic Preservation Office in Connecticut helps take care of these important places. They even manage five historic sites that are owned by the state, making sure they are preserved for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
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Exploring Connecticut's Historic Places
Connecticut is home to several fascinating historic sites. Each one tells a unique story about the state's rich past. These places are carefully looked after so that future generations can discover and appreciate them.
Prudence Crandall Museum
The Prudence Crandall Museum is located in Canterbury. This historic house was once the site of a very important school. In 1833, a brave woman named Prudence Crandall reopened her boarding school here. She welcomed African-American students, whom she called "young Ladies and little Misses of color." This museum helps us remember her courage and the fight for equal education.
Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine
In East Granby, you can find the Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine. This site was once a working copper mine. Later, it became a prison, making it a unique place to visit. You can explore the old mine tunnels and learn about what life was like for prisoners long ago. It's a fascinating look into Connecticut's past.
Eric Sloane Museum and Kent Furnace
The Eric Sloane Museum and Kent Furnace is in Kent. This museum celebrates the work of Eric Sloane, who was an artist, author, and illustrator. The building was given to the state by Stanley Works. Inside, you can see exhibits of old hand tools and even an iron furnace. You can also explore Eric Sloane's own art studio, which is part of the museum. It's a great place to learn about art and old crafts.
Viets' Tavern
Also in East Granby, you'll find Viets' Tavern. This house was built around 1760. It was the home of John Viets, who was the very first warden of the Old Newgate Prison. The house is not currently open to the public. However, it remains an important part of the area's history, showing us what homes looked like in the 1700s.
Henry Whitfield State Museum
The Henry Whitfield State Museum is located in Guilford. This historic house dates all the way back to 1639. It holds a special record: it is the oldest house in all of Connecticut! It is also the oldest stone house in all of New England. Visiting this museum is like stepping back in time to the earliest days of the state.