Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library - Hartford, Connecticut

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Visit the Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library in Hartford. The Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library, located in Hartford Connecticut, opened in 1825 and it one of the oldest historical societies in the nation. It boasts one of the greatest collections of artifacts in New England.

The museum has more than 242,000 prints and photos, 38,000 artifacts and objects. The library has more than 125,000 volumes, well over 1000 maps, and a staggering three million manuscripts. Anyone who has an interest in history and written works will certainly want to visit the museum when they are in Hartford.

The Graphics Collection has close to 4,000 drawings in a variety of mediums (pencil, watercolor, chalk, crayon, etc.). The Collection also has prints, photographs, and postcards from the late 19th century to the present.

In the Arts and Artifacts Collection, you can see textiles, weapons, uniforms, furniture, paintings, tools, and a whole lot more.

The Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library has a number of other exhibits that will appeal to the whole family.

Small Things Considered

Here, you can discover a host of small objects and see how they have influenced life. You can see a nutmeg, Wiffle balls, and even a strand of hair from George Washington, the first President of the United States.

Tours and Detours through Early Connecticut

This section of the museum details the history of life in Connecticut for more than 200 years. You can see Colonial clothing and tools and learn about the American Revolution in an incredible sound and light gallery. This is a great place to learn about the history of the state.

Amistad – A True Story of Freedom

This is an award-winning multimedia exhibit that includes five galleries, which detail the struggles of African Americans and those who helped fight for their freedom. One of the highlights of the exhibit showcases the revolt aboard the ship Amistad.

Hands-On History

This section of the museum is very popular with the kids. The hands-on gallery has a number of interactive exhibits for families. They can play dress up, sew tobacco leaves, build a brick wall, and more. It offers families a chance to learn why people have come to Connecticut over the years.

Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop as well, where you can pick up a souvenir to remember your trip.

1 Elizabeth St
Hartford, CT 06105
(860) 236-5621