Are you interested in military history? These are the must-visit war museums in Connecticut:
1Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Groton, CTThe Fort Griswold site, spanning 17 acres, is preserved and maintained as the Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. The park offers visitors a chance to explore the grounds and learn about the fort's historical significance. 2Submarine Force Museum
Groton, CTThe United States Navy Submarine Force Library and Museum is situated on the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut. This location is not only scenic but also significant, as it is the only submarine museum managed exclusively by the Naval History & Heritage Command division of the Navy. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in naval history and submarine technology. 3Fort Trumbull State Park
New London, CTFort Trumbull, once a military base, is now a state park located in New London, Connecticut. The park offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the fort and its role in various military conflicts. The fort was named after Governor Jonathan Trumbull who recommended its construction in 1775 to protect the Connecticut government seat. The fort was completed in 1777 and has since undergone several renovations to meet changing military needs. 4John Trumbull Birthplace
Lebanon, CTThe John Trumbull Birthplace, also known as the Governor Jonathan Trumbull House, is a historic house museum located on the Lebanon Green in Lebanon, Connecticut. The house was built in 1735 by Joseph Trumbull as a wedding gift for his son Jonathan. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style of the period and the lifestyle of the Trumbull family. 5Shaw Mansion
New London, CTThe Shaw Mansion, also known as the Shaw-Perkins Mansion and the Shaw Mansion Museum, is a historic mansion and house museum located at 11 Blinman Street, nestled between Bank and Brewer Streets in New London, Connecticut. This mansion is a significant part of the city's history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. 6Submarine Force Library and Museum
Conning Towers Nautilus Park, CTThe United States Navy Submarine Force Library and Museum is situated on the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut. This location offers a unique setting for the museum, providing visitors with a scenic view of the river while they explore the rich history of the submarine force. 7Hempsted House
New London, CTThe Joshua Hempsted House, located at 11 Hempstead Street in New London, Connecticut, serves as a historic house museum. This location offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the rich history of the area. The house, built around 1678, is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the state and provides a unique insight into early construction methods due to its well-preserved state. 8Trumbull War Office
Lebanon, CTThe War Office, also once known as the Capt. Joseph Trumble Store and Office, is a historic commercial building located in Lebanon, Connecticut. This building, which was constructed around 1732, holds significant historical value. It is a part of the museum property managed by the Connecticut Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, which also includes the Trumbull House and the Wadsworth Stables. 9New England Civil War Museum
Vernon, CTThe New England Civil War Museum and Research Center has a rich history that dates back to 1896 when it was started by local Civil War veterans. It was formally established as a museum and opened to the public in March 1994. This historical background adds to the authenticity and depth of the museum's collection, making it a significant destination for those interested in the Civil War period. 10David Humphreys House
Ansonia, CTThe General David Humphreys House, located at 37 Elm Street in Ansonia, Connecticut, is a historic house museum. This location is significant as it was the birthplace of the American Revolutionary War Colonel David Humphreys. Today, it is owned by the Derby Historical Society and serves as its headquarters. 11Connecticut Historical Society Museum & Library
Hartford, CTThe CHS is home to a research center that houses 270,000 artifacts and graphics, and over 100,000 books and pamphlets. It also boasts one of the largest costume and textile collections in New England. These extensive collections provide a comprehensive look into the history of Connecticut and the United States, making it a valuable resource for both researchers and tourists alike. 12New England Air Museum
East Granby, CTThe New England Air Museum (NEAM) is an American aerospace museum situated next to Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling by air. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and development of aviation in the United States. 13Old Newgate Prison and Copper Mine (closed)
East Granby, CTOld New Gate Prison, located on New Gate Road in East Granby, Connecticut, is a historical site that once served as a prison and mine. Today, it is managed by the state of Connecticut and is known as the Old New Gate Prison & Copper Mine Archaeological Preserve. This site offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the state's rich history and heritage. 14Putnam Memorial State Park - "Connecticut's Valley Forge"
Redding, CTPutnam Memorial State Park, located in the town of Redding, Connecticut, is a public recreation area with a rich historical background. The park preserves the site where Major General Israel Putnam chose to encamp his men during the harsh winter of 1778/1779 amidst the American Revolutionary War. This site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, providing a tangible connection to the events and people that shaped the nation's history. 15National Coast Guard Museum
New London, CTThe United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) is a significant institution that provides education to future officers of the United States Coast Guard. This branch of the American armed forces is responsible for maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and defense readiness. The academy, founded in 1876, is based in New London, Connecticut, and is the smallest of the four federal military academies.