Wells-Shipman-Ward House, Historical Society of Glastonbury, Glastonbury Historical Society

Historical Society of Glastonbury

History Happened Here

The Historical Society of Glastonbury preserves, interprets and educates in order to promote and share the ever evolving history of Glastonbury to connect our community with our present and our past.

Our mission is to promote community activity and interest in Glastonbury’s heritage through publications, exhibits and programs and shall acquire, maintain and preserve historical properties and materials for education and research.

Upcoming Events

May 18
Family Event

Revolutionary Colonial Faire & Muster

10 am to 3 pm
Welles-Shipman-Ward Property
more information
Jun 20
 

Historical Fiction Book Club

1 pm to 3 pm
Museum on the Green
more information

Visit Our Historic Sites

Welles-Shipman-Ward Property

The 1755 River Valley Mansion has been preserved in its original colonial style and has one of the largest colonial era hearth fireplaces in Connecticut.

Museum On The Green

Museum exhibits cover the town’s history from the First Peoples who resided here, the Wangunk people, through the arrival of the Colonists, 19th Century Immigration from European Countries, through the history of the mid-20th Century.

Welles-Chapman Tavern

Joseph Welles was a well-known colonial era tavern owner. He built his home on the Country Road (Main Street) and in 1796, he was granted a license to operate a tavern there.

Become Involved

The Historical Society of Glastonbury relies on donors and members to provide operating support so that we may continue to highlight the history, people, events, and important buildings and businesses that make up the diverse history of Glastonbury. We do this by adding to our collection, repairing and maintaining our historic buildings, and offering programs and events that present our history in an interesting and informative manner to residents and guests.

See What We’ve Been Up To

THE Tag Sale dates announced; will be collecting donations beginning in August!

Our annual takeover of the Welles-Shipman-Ward property scheduled for September 26 to 28, 2025 is being planned now, and we will begin collecting your gently used items in August.  We …

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Pay It Forward Results!

Successful Inaugural Pay It Forward Event   Many thanks to the community for their generous donations to the HSG & GPIP Food Drive on Sunday, October 13th. The Glastonbury Food …

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Glastonbury Men Who Served
in The Revolutionary War

In colonial times, all able-bodied freemen between the ages of 16 and 60 were required to train with their town’s militia. These men were part-time, non-professional fighters who had to provide their own weapons when they trained and their own clothing and food if they were away.  

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Follow us on Instagram

Historical Book Club meeting coming up June 20! Free, but reservations are required: martha.poole.hsg@gmail.com. 

The novel is based on the true story of Carrie McGavack, whose home was turned into a field hospital during the Civil War Battle of Franklin. 
*** The meeting will include a visit to (adjacent) Green Cemetery to hear the stories of Glastonbury Civil War veterans. Bonus: 
*** The volunteer responsible for cleaning cemetery stones will explain the process.
One Week from TODAY!!
Hear Ye, Hear Ye !! 
Activities: House & Barn Tours, featuring Period Furniture; Colonial Fun for Kids; Craft Demonstrations; 18th Century Traders; Music and Dance; Chocolate Maker; Storytelling; 

New this year: Privateers! ......... Visit hsgct.org for schedule and map.
SPOTS ARE GOING FAST!!! Email Judy to GRAB YOURS TODAY!!
Catch up on the "latest" news and gossip as the stagecoach travellers join you in the tavern.  Sure to be a great time - tickets available now through April 19th!
Contact Judy.Fresk.hsg@gmail.com to reserve your (and your friends) spot!!
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