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Mini guide to Hartford
Located in the centre of the New England state of Connecticut, Hartford is a perfect base for exploring the area, particularly in autumn when the leaves present a stunning backdrop. The town is rich in history and boasts several excellent cultural attractions, including historic buildings, museums and galleries.
The Old State House, a Charles Bulfinch-designed architectural landmark built in 1796 on the site of the 1636 Founding of Colonies of Connecticut, is the oldest of its kind in the United States. George Washington first met here with the French during the Revolution; the Amistad Trial and the first black law trial were both held here; and this was also the site of the chartering of American School for the Deaf.
Exhibits and attractions here include: Gilbert Stuart’s portrait of George Washington, Joseph Steward's Museum of Curiosities, and the American Puppet Theater. There is also a daily cannon firing ceremony, along with guided tours and historical re-enactments – including one the Amistad Trial. Also of interest are the visitor information and literature centre, and the museum shop.
Hartford’s other main attraction is the Greek revival Wadsworth Atheneum, the nation's oldest continuously operating public art museum. Dating from 1842, it contains some 45,000 pieces of art, among which are many fine and decorative arts. Additionally, there are many masterpieces, including Rubens' The Return of the Holy Family from Egypt and, in the French Impressionists collection, Renoir's Monet Painting in His Garden at Argenteuil. Lectures and films are put on at the Atheneum Theater, and there's an excellent café too.
A hilltop community known as Nook Farm, in the western part of the city, was home in the 1880s to neighbours Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Today their Victorian homes, furnished much as they were back then, are open for tours.
From 1874 until 1891, Twain lived at 351 Farmington Avenue, where he wrote many of his classic works, including Huckleberry Finn. He spent a fair portion of his publishing royalties building and redecorating this outrageously ornate home, with its unusual black-and-orange brickwork and luxurious Tiffany stained-glass interior.
Hartford’s Civic Center, the neighbouring CityPlace, and the adjacent Hartford Stage Company form the nucleus of Hartford’s culture and nightlife, offering concerts, art exhibits, and a 10-month theatrical season.
For a respite from Hartford’s historic architectural sites, there are several beautiful parks located around the city, including: Elizabeth Park, which features exquisite rose gardens; Bushnell Park with its intricately hand-carved 48-horse carousel; and Colt Park, estate of the inventor of the Colt revolver.
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