New Haven Colony Historical Society

New Have is one of the most historic areas in the country and the New Haven Colony Historical Society seeks to preserve that history. The colony was founded as a Puritan village and grew into an industrial center in Connecticut, becoming the metropolitan area it is today. During the 19th century, the area was a quiet farming and seafaring town, home to Eli Whitney, Oliver Winchester and Charles Goodyear. The historical society was founded in 1862 in order to preserve the artifacts and documents of the community. The founders of the society immediately set out to collect paintings, photographs, furniture, books, manuscripts and ephemera, all of which are a part of the collection today. The building in which the museum is housed was built in 1930 and is located in a National Register Historic District. Permanent exhibits at the museum include decorative arts throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries featuring pewter, clocks, textiles, glass and ceramics. The collection also includes fine art pieces, maritime history items and technology and manufacturing exhibits including a full-sized working version of Eli Whitney's cotton gin. The society offers a variety of educational programs including workshops, lectures, tours and gallery activities and the building is available for rent for those hosting special events.