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Stanley-Whitman House: A Window into Colonial Life

Step back in time at the Stanley-Whitman House, a preserved colonial landmark in Farmington, Connecticut, showcasing 18th-century life and architecture.

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The Stanley-Whitman House in Farmington, CT, is a well-preserved example of early 18th-century New England architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into colonial life. Built around 1720, this National Historic Landmark showcases period furnishings, decorative arts, and a rich history.

A brief summary to Stanley-Whitman House

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

Local tips

  • Check the Stanley-Whitman House website for seasonal hours, special events, and workshops before visiting.
  • Explore the gardens and grounds surrounding the house for a more immersive experience.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the house.
  • The Stanley-Whitman House Education Center is fully accessible, and the first floor of the 1720 Historic House is wheelchair accessible.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Stanley-Whitman House is located on High Street in Farmington. From the Farmington Village Green, walk east on Farmington Avenue, then turn right onto High Street. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. There is a small parking lot at the museum, and street parking is available on the opposite side of High Street.

  • Public Transport

    From Hartford, take the CTtransit bus to Farmington. The trip takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Check the CTtransit website for schedules and routes. From the bus stop in Farmington, walk towards High Street. The Stanley-Whitman House will be a short walk away. A single bus fare is around $1.75.

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Discover more about Stanley-Whitman House

The Stanley-Whitman House, located at 37 High Street in Farmington, Connecticut, stands as a testament to early New England architecture and colonial life. Built around 1720, the house is a classic saltbox design, featuring a long, sloping roof, a central chimney, and a framed second-story overhang with pendants. It is one of the oldest houses in Farmington and a National Historic Landmark. The house was initially constructed for Deacon John Stanley between 1709 and 1719, though he likely never lived there. In 1720, Ebenezer Steel purchased the property, and later, Reverend Samuel Whitman acquired it in 1735. The house reflects the beliefs, labor, and resilience of 17th- and 18th-century Farmington residents. The Stanley-Whitman House features a central chimney made of field and sandstone, dividing the house into symmetrical halves. The original structure comprised four rooms and an attic space. The lean-to addition at the rear, added around 1760, includes the kitchen, buttery, and a traditional "birth and death" room. The house's overhanging upper story, derived from English medieval construction techniques, is a prominent feature. Today, the Stanley-Whitman House operates as a museum and living history center. Visitors can explore the period-raised bed gardens, heirloom orchard, and exhibit galleries. The museum also manages Memento Mori, Farmington's ancient cemetery, and the Village Green. The Stanley-Whitman House offers guided tours, educational programs, and workshops that immerse visitors in colonial life.

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