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Phelps-Hatheway House: A Glimpse into 18th-Century Elegance

Step back in time at the Phelps-Hatheway House in Suffield, CT, and explore 18th-century architecture, furnishings, and gardens. A historic gem!

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The Phelps-Hatheway House in Suffield, CT, offers a captivating look into the lives of two wealthy families who resided here during the 18th and 19th centuries. The house showcases a blend of architectural styles and period furnishings, set amidst beautifully maintained gardens.

A brief summary to Phelps-Hatheway House

  • Sunday 1 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Connecticut Landmarks website for the most up-to-date information on hours, special events, and admission fees.
  • Explore the gardens, which feature a variety of plants and flowers, and are maintained by the Suffield Garden Club.
  • Take a guided tour of the house to learn about its history and the families who lived there.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Phelps-Hatheway House is located at 55 S Main St, Suffield, CT 06078. From I-91, take exit 47E for Route 190 East. Follow Route 190 East to South Main Street in Suffield. The Phelps-Hatheway House will be on the left. Parking is available on site. There is no charge for parking.

  • Walking

    The Phelps-Hatheway House is located on Main Street in Suffield's historic district. If you are already exploring the town center, the house is easily accessible on foot. From the Suffield Historical Society Museum, walk south on Main Street for approximately 0.2 miles. The Phelps-Hatheway House will be on your right.

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Discover more about Phelps-Hatheway House

The Phelps-Hatheway House, located on Main Street in Suffield, Connecticut, is a historic house museum that provides a window into the lives of wealthy Connecticut Valley families during the 18th and 19th centuries. The house's history began in 1761 when Shem Burbank, a merchant, built the original center-chimney structure. However, his business suffered during the American Revolution, and in 1788, he sold the house to Oliver Phelps. Phelps, a land speculator, transformed the house into a more elaborate mansion in 1794, adding a substantial wing decorated with imported Parisian wallpaper. The contrast between the original structure and the Phelps addition highlights the differences in the personalities and fortunes of the two families. The Hatheway family later acquired the house in the early 1800s and lived there until 1914, accumulating a collection of artifacts that document life from that time. The house features a mix of architectural styles, reflecting its evolution over time. The main block, built around 1762, showcases Georgian woodwork. The northern addition, added in 1795, includes a Doric portico designed by Asher Benjamin. The house is furnished with 18th-century Connecticut furniture. The grounds feature a Colonial Revival Garden, installed in 1964, along with a large herb bed and flowering shrubs, maintained by the Suffield Garden Club. Today, the Phelps-Hatheway House is owned and maintained by Connecticut Landmarks. Visitors can take guided tours of the house to learn about its history and architecture, as well as the families who lived there. The gardens are also open to the public and offer a peaceful setting to explore.

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