Boothe Memorial Park: A Step Back in Time

Boothe Memorial Park & Museum, nestled in the Putney section of Stratford, Connecticut, offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and quirky Americana. This 32-acre park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was once the estate of the Boothe family, who bequeathed it to the town in 1949. Today, it stands as a testament to their eccentric nature and contributions to history, architecture, and the arts. The park's grounds are open year-round, offering a serene escape with scenic walking paths, vibrant flower gardens, and picnic spots. Its standout feature is the collection of architecturally unique buildings, including a carriage house, Americana Museum, miniature lighthouse and windmill, clocktower museum, trolley station, chapel, and blacksmith shop. The Boothe Homestead, built around 1840 and remodeled in 1914, is said to be the "Oldest Homestead in America," sitting on the foundations of a 1663 house. Visitors can explore the park's museums, which showcase early farm equipment, carriages, and trolley history. The park also features a rose garden, wedding gardens, and a playground. The Boothe Memorial Astronomical Society (BMAS) Observatory, built in 1957, houses two telescopes for stargazing. Don't miss the original Sikorsky Bridge toll booth, a relic from the Merritt Parkway's past. Throughout the year, Boothe Memorial Park hosts various events, including outdoor concerts, Shakespearean plays, and the annual Great Pumpkin Festival.