The Thomas Darling House – Woodbridge, Connecticut
This home was built for Thomas Darling between 1772 and 1774. Mr. Darling played a significant role in colonial Connecticut. He called such people as Benjamin Franklin, Ezra Stiles, Roger Sherman and Benedict Arnold his friends and associates.
He studied theology at Yale and graduated in 1740. He was licensed to preach in 1743 but never sought the ministry as a profession, he trained others for that roll and was the only tutor at Yale during the years 1743 – 1745.
He spent his years in being active in many businesses and was a deputy to the General Assembly.
When he decided to leave New Haven and try a different lifestyle in Woodbridge he had the house built. The Gambrel roof structure is built on a central hall plan and incorporates several unusual features. The paneling and woodwork in the hallway and front rooms are rich in detail and accentuated by the nine foot three inch ceilings. Imported tiles of Biblical scenes over one fireplace suggest a New York influence. Many of the furnishings are Darling family pieces, as the house and grounds were owned by the family until 1973. The massive kitchen fireplace is filled with the Darling family’s original cooking utensils.
Along with the house are a collection of outbuildings which include a large 18th century barn, a 19th century horse barn, a carriage shed, a chicken coop, a pig house and a 19th century privy. Along with the buildings there are several fields with some easy walking trails for you to enjoy.
The Darling House Museum is open several times during the year by way of significant events. It is available for tours anytime! School and group tours are encouraged and may be booked by special arrangement by e-mail donaldmenzies@sbcglobal.net or phone 203-387-2823. The archives are currently unavailable while they begin a long range plan of organization. As soon as some order is achieved, they will be available by appointment! Special exhibits are on display in the Woodbridge Public Library and in the Darling Museum during the summer season.
From either direction on the Wilbur Cross Parkway (Route 15) take Exit 59 for the Litchfield Turnpike (Route 69). At the end of the ramp take a left, and stay on Route 69 for 2.7 miles. The Darling House will be on the right. After passing the house and shed, there is an entrance for a large parking lot on the right. The Museum entrance is located at the back of the Darling House.
The house is on the National Register of Historic Places.
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