The Stamford Historical Society is not just a regular museum, it is a treasure trove of information on the rich history of Stamford from the 17th Century to the present day. Through theater, exhibitions, school days and charity sales, the society engages both adults and children in the cultural and historic events that shaped the city. The exhibitions throw light on Stamford's participation in the Civil and World Wars, the lives of its richest and poorest families, and gruesome stories of the Colonial Era. The kids' exhibits talk about the toys and lifestyles of children in the past centuries. Attend historic dramas, tea parties, antique sales and history lectures for a holistic blend of fun and education. Stop by at their library and book corner to view vintage photographs and read collector's editions.
Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens is home to the indigenous flora and fauna of Southwest New England. Sprawled over 91 acres (36.82 hectares), it comprises of natural and semi-natural habitats that interest botanists. Visit the Magnolia Collection to view beautiful pink, purple and white blossoms, the Pollarded Tree Display for spectacular deciduous trees and the Conifer Garden to observe pines, junipers, firs, yews and spruces. The Mehlquist Garden houses exotic flowers from Europe, Korea and Japan, while the Nut Tree Collection is home to pecan, chestnut, hazelnut and walnut trees. Numerous trails take you to the Red Maple Wetland, the Woodland Pond with arrow arum and lilies, a magnificent tea garden and meadows dotted with wildflowers. Bartlett Arboretum conducts several educational camps throughout the year for both adults and children.
The Perrot Memorial Library is located in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, a Long Island Sound seaside community which comprises the eastern portion of the Town of Greenwich. The library, named for John Perrot, a British loyalist and Old Greenwich's first private schoolmaster, was founded in 1904 by his descendants. The library moved from place to place until 1930, when architect D. Everett Waid donated a piece of land on Sound Beach Avenue, as well as plans for a Jeffersonian-style building. The Children's Wing was designed by architect Mark B. Thompson and construction was completed in 1998. The new addition was funded by a a major gift from the Radcliffe Family and donations from many members of our community. The interior of the Children's Wing was built to resemble a village green. Perrot Library is a private, 501(c)(3) institution, owned by the Perrot Library Association; we are affiliated (and share a catalog) with the larger Greenwich Public Library system.
Greenwich Library has a history dating back to 1800 when it started off as a small bibliotheca. Over the years it has changes many locations and moved to its present address in 1960. It was earlier called The Greenwich Reading Room and Library Association and its current name was incorporated in 1907. It also features the Cole Auditorium, a cafe and offices. It offers programs for kids and teens as well.
Darien Library is one of the top 10 public libraries in the United States. Based in Darien, Conn., the library collection includes 155,000 books and 300 newspaper and magazine subscriptions. It offers a wide range of services and programs, such as multiple copies of the latest bestsellers, state-of-the-art technology center, reference and information services for adults and children, special collections in business, law, local history and genealogy. Additionally, Darien Library offers Internet access from multiple computer workstations via T-1 line, interlibrary loan service and 24/7 access to an extensive list of electronic resources, to name a few.
