Historic House

General, History, Historic House, Historical Society

When Thomas Darling decided to leave New Haven to pursue a country squire's life, he hired Abiel Gray of West Hartford, CT to build his new home. It took Gray two years (1772-1774) to complete the project. The Gambrel roof structure is built on a central hall plan and incorporates several unusual features. The paneling and woodwork in the hallway and front rooms are rich in detail and accentuated by the nine foot three inch ceilings. Imported tiles of Biblical scenes over one fireplace suggest a New York influence.

Culture, History, Historic House, Historical Society

Currently the Society's projects include full restoration of the Derrin House on West Avon Road, proper storage of many artifacts in the Living Museum and Pine Grove Schoolhouse, answering local history questions, giving referrals to those who seek "experts" to help with their historic home or genealogy questions, publishing a newsletter and planning fundraising events. The Society belongs to the Farmington Valley Visitors Association, Connecticut League of History Organizations, Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation.

Historic House

Art, General, History, Historic House, Military

Founded in 1936, the Antiquarian & Landmarks Society (A & L), Connecticut's statewide heritage organization, promotes interest in historic properties by preserving and interpreting significant personal stories and collections. The Antiquarian & Landmarks Society owns nine historic houses opened to public. All are on their original sites and most have intact original collections.