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Plainville Historic Center: A Glimpse into the Past

Discover Plainville's captivating past at the Historic Center: Explore exhibits from the Farmington Canal era to aviation history.

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The Plainville Historic Center, located in the former Town Hall, offers a deep dive into the town's history, from its early days to its industrial development. Exhibits showcase artifacts, documents, and stories that shaped Plainville, with a special focus on the Farmington Canal era.

A brief summary to Plainville Historic Center

Local tips

  • Check the Plainville Historical Society's website for information on current exhibits and upcoming events.
  • Consider calling ahead to confirm opening hours, especially during holidays or inclement weather.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Plainville Historic Center is located in the heart of Plainville on Pierce Street. From most points in the town center, it's easily accessible on foot. Look for the old Town Hall building; it's a prominent landmark.

  • Public Transport

    CTtransit buses serve the Plainville area. Check the CTtransit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to the Historic Center. A single fare is $1.75.

  • Driving

    The Historic Center is easily accessible by car. From I-84, take the appropriate exit for Plainville and follow the signs to the town center. Pierce Street is located off of Route 10 (East Street). Parking is available on the street, but be aware of parking regulations. Parking fines can be $25 or more. During winter, there is a parking ban on public roads, typically from December 1 to April 1 between midnight and 6:00 AM.

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Discover more about Plainville Historic Center

Step back in time at the Plainville Historic Center, where the town's rich heritage comes to life. Housed in the old Town Hall since 1976, the center boasts a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Plainville from its humble beginnings to its thriving present. The exhibits trace Plainville's evolution, highlighting its early settlements and its growth into a vibrant community. A significant portion of the museum is dedicated to the Farmington Canal, a 19th-century waterway that briefly connected New Haven to Northampton, MA, and played a vital role in Plainville's early development. The "Canal Room" features an extensive collection of canal information, including a large diorama and historical files. Other exhibits showcase various aspects of Plainville's past, including displays of toys, costumes, tools, and a recreated Victorian parlor. The "Tunxis Room" features a collection of Native American artifacts, acknowledging the area's original inhabitants. Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the exhibit dedicated to Plainville's aviation history, which includes information about Nels Nelson, a local aviation pioneer, and Robertson Field, the oldest airport in Connecticut. The Plainville Historical Society, established in 1968, strives to preserve and share Plainville's history through its collections, exhibits, and educational programs. The center also hosts community events, further enriching the visitor experience.

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