Founded in 1889, the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society is the oldest historical society (along with Westport) in Fairfield County. Our mission focuses on preservation, modernism, education and community. Through exhibits, programs, library services and events, we celebrate history and explore its role in shaping the future.
Our sprawling campus includes the Town House (1825), Cody Pharmacy (1845), Hanford-Silliman House (c. 1764), the Rock School (1799), the Landmark John Rogers Sculpture Studio (1878), and Tool Museum and Print Shop. Other historic buildings are Connecticut’s last one-room school house, the Little Red Schoolhouse (1865) and Sellecks Corner chapel (1851). The Museum also operates the 1960 Gores Pavilion, designed by “Harvard Five” architect Landis Gores.
With two rotating exhibition spaces, there is always something new to see. In addition, selections from the Museum’s collection of paintings by artists from the Silvermine Guild and New Canaan’s own Augusta Simon remain on permanent display in the Town House. The Museum houses the second largest clothing and textile collection in the state, as well as a large pewter collection in the Hanford-Silliman House. The 3500-volume library is a great resource for architecture, antiques and genealogy research.
There are ongoing programs and events that attract visitors of all ages. The first Sunday in June, we hold An Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social, with an antique car show, children’s games and spinning, weaving and printing demonstrations. The biennial Modern House Day Tour + Symposium is a wonderful way to see a selection of mid-century modern private homes and to hear lectures by internationally renowned architects, designers and scholars. October 4design, a celebration of architecture, art, community and design spearheaded by the Museum offers events, programs and activities throughout the month of October.
Tour time: 1 – 2 hours
Other amenities: Dining nearby, parking, special packages
