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Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden: A Step Back in Time

Discover the intertwined stories of an 18th-century preacher and a 20th-century philanthropist in this beautifully preserved historic home and garden.

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Explore the legacies of Reverend Joseph Bellamy and Caroline Ferriday at this historic Bethlehem site. The house, built in the mid-18th century, and its surrounding gardens offer a glimpse into two distinct eras of American history and culture.

A brief summary to Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden

  • Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Connecticut Landmarks website for seasonal hours and special events before visiting.
  • Allow at least 1.5-2 hours to fully explore the house and gardens.
  • Consider visiting during the Connecticut Historic Gardens Day for special activities.
  • Explore the nearby Bethlehem Green Historic District, including the Old Bethlem Historical Society.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Housatonic Valley, head towards Route 61 and follow it north until you reach the intersection with Route 132. Turn right onto Route 132, continue until you reach Main Street North, and the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden will be on your left. There is parking available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    From Waterbury, take the 10 Bus towards Bethlehem. This bus will take you to Main Street in Bethlehem. The Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden is a short walk from the bus stop at 9 Main St N. Bus fares typically range from $1.75 to $3.00.

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Discover more about Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden

The Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden in Bethlehem, Connecticut, invites visitors to explore the lives and passions of two remarkable individuals. Reverend Joseph Bellamy, a prominent figure in the First Great Awakening, constructed the house between 1754 and 1767. Later, in 1912, Henry and Eliza Ferriday acquired the property as a summer residence, with Eliza and her daughter Caroline creating the formal garden that graces the site today. Bellamy, a renowned preacher and theologian, used the house as a base for his ministry and a training ground for aspiring ministers. His theological school was the first of its kind in the United States, shaping the education of many influential figures. The house itself evolved over time, with architectural embellishments added in the 1790s. The Bellamy family owned the 100-acre property until 1868. The Ferridays transformed the property into an elegant summer retreat, blending European decorative elements with the home's colonial roots. Caroline Ferriday, in particular, left a lasting mark, supporting social justice and human rights causes throughout her life. She aided victims of the Ravensbrück concentration camp and supported the Civil Rights Movement, earning her the Cross of Lorraine and the French Legion of Honor. Visitors can explore the house, filled with American and European antiques, and wander through the formal parterre garden, featuring historic roses, peonies, and lilacs. The garden reflects the tastes and interests of the Ferridays, especially Caroline, who spent 78 summers on the property. Today, the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden is owned and operated by Connecticut Landmarks.

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