Inspiration
History Awaits in Eastern Connecticut
In the heart of southern New England, Connecticut is home to not only charming scenery, but quaint colonial villages, renowned 18th and 19th century architecture, and well-preserved Revolutionary War and Native American heritage sites.
We invite you to visit the eastern part of the state and uncover some of the richest history of the region. Various places within Eastern Connecticut provide first-hand insight into New England history, and connect visitors to even greater national history through landmarks home to compelling stories.
Explorers young and old can take a journey through time at all of these historic locations:
Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Address: Conjunction of Park Avenue & Monument Street, Groton, CT 06340
Located in Groton, CT, this historical park is the site of the largest Revolutionary War battle in Connecticut-which became known for Benedict Arnold’s massacre. Built to defend the port of New London, this landmark now serves as a scenic state park perfect for a picnic with a history lesson. Learn more before you visit here, or be sure to check out the informational center right near the watchtower.
Ebenezer Avery House and Museum
Address: 57 Fort Street, Groton, CT 06340
Serving as a hospital for those wounded (including the namesake Ebenezer Avery) during the above “Battle of Groton Heights”, The Avery House is also a must-visit stop when traveling to Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park. The house has limited hours on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day to Labor Day from noon to 4:00pm, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.
The Stonington Lighthouse Museum
Address: 7 Water Street, Stonington, CT 06378
As you work your way down the coast, you should also hit The Stonington Lighthouse Museum, a.k.a. the first ever lighthouse museum in the nation. Home to notable stonework and relics from 1840, the venue provides a glimpse into eastern CT’s long standing maritime tradition. Visitors can envision the livelihood of generations of local fishermen, sailors, sea captains, merchants, and entrepreneurs as they take in aweing views of the Long Island Sound from up above.
Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center
Address: 110 Pequot Trail, Ledyard, CT 06338
Explore the story of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation with life-sized dioramas and a 16th century walk-thru village mirroring pre-colonial life. Artifacts and interactive exhibits of Mashantucket Pequot Tribal history can be found displayed throughout the museum and as well as the history of the eastern woodlands. Individuals of all ages are encouraged to visit. Information on admission and museum guides for guests to visit year-round can be found online.
So, where are you headed first?
Whether your history field trips take you indoors or outdoors, these 4 sites are key to learning about the foundation of our state. The District encourages you to visit them all with families and friends, and share your travels with us on social media using #CTVisit and #HometoHistory.
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