Henry Whitfield State Museum: A Step Back in Time

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Discover Connecticut's oldest house and explore centuries of history at the Henry Whitfield State Museum in Guilford.

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Henry Whitfield State Museum

Explore Connecticut's oldest house and New England's oldest stone house at the Henry Whitfield State Museum in Guilford. Built in 1639, this historic landmark offers a glimpse into the lives of early Puritan settlers and the complex history of the region.

A brief summary to Henry Whitfield State Museum

248 Old Whitfield St, Guilford, Guilford Center, Connecticut, 06437, US
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Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Henry Whitfield State Museum.

Explore the museum grounds and enjoy a picnic amidst the historic buildings and scenic landscape.
Check the museum's website for events and exhibits, including demonstrations and family-friendly activities.
Take advantage of the audio tours available in English and Spanish to learn more about the site's history.

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Getting There

Car

If driving, head towards Guilford, CT. The Henry Whitfield State Museum is located at 248 Old Whitfield St, Guilford, CT 06437. From I-95, take exit 57 (Guilford). Turn left onto Route 1, then take a right onto Old Whitfield St. The museum will be on your right. Free parking is available on-site.
Public Transport

To reach the Henry Whitfield State Museum via public transport, take the Shore Line East train to Guilford Station. From the station, it is a short 1/4-mile walk north to the museum. Alternatively, take a Connecticut Transit bus to the Guilford Town Green, then walk about 0.5 miles east on the Green and turn right onto Old Whitfield St. Bus fare from New Haven is approximately $2. A ride-sharing service called XtraMile is available in Guilford and Madison for $1.75 a ride.
Walking

From the Guilford Green, walk 0.5 miles east, then turn right onto Old Whitfield St. The museum will be on your right. From the Guilford Train Station, walk 1/4 mile north on Old Whitfield Street.

Discover more about Henry Whitfield State Museum

The Henry Whitfield State Museum, located in Guilford, Connecticut, offers a unique journey into the past. The centerpiece of the museum is the Henry Whitfield House, Connecticut's oldest house and New England's oldest stone house, constructed in 1639. Built for Reverend Henry Whitfield, a Puritan minister seeking religious freedom, the house served as both a family home and a defensive structure for the early settlers of Guilford.The museum grounds encompass sprawling lawns, stone walls, and mature trees, creating a picturesque setting for exploration. Visitors can explore the Whitfield House, which features three floors filled with period furnishings and artifacts. The Visitor Center offers exhibit galleries, a museum gift shop, a research library, travel information, and restrooms. The Education Building, housed in a repurposed 1870s barn, features history displays and hands-on activities.The museum is dedicated to interpreting the complex history of the site, acknowledging past injustices, and working towards a more equitable future. Interpretive signs with photos and links to online material, including audio tours in English and Spanish, enhance the visitor experience. The museum also offers outdoor activities such as scavenger hunts and encourages visitors to picnic and enjoy the grounds.Open from May to October, Wednesday through Sunday, the Henry Whitfield State Museum provides a captivating glimpse into 17th-century life and the ongoing evolution of American history.