Located in downtown Hartford, Connecticut’s Old State House served as Connecticut’s state capitol building from 1796 to 1878 and Hartford City Hall from 1878-1915. Much history took place in this building. The historic Senate Chamber was the location of the 1814 Hartford Convention. The Courtroom was the site of the Prudence Crandall trial in 1834 and the Amistad trials of 1839. Inside is a museum and you can tour the restored original legislative rooms. I was able to appreciate the architecture of the building built in the Federal style and designed by Charles Bullfinch famous for being the architect of the Massachusetts State House. This however was his first public building.

We came to Hartford to see the Capitol but our walk around the city was sure to pass the Old State House. The structure is a beautiful Federal style building, popular for civic architecture when our country first began. It was designed by who else for civic New England architecture than Charles Bulfinch and displays he trademark gold dome. Interesting that he designed this structure before doing the Massachusetts State House which made him nationally renowned. Built in 1796, it reflects the classical symmetrical build but in a scale that goes beyond the colonial Georgian. It reflects the ambition and optimism of the new country. In addition, it is beautifully set on a park green with trees on its east entrance. While diminutive for modern state standards, its classic appeal is not lost today over 200 years after its completion. If you are in Hartford, take the time to visit this structure.

My wife had wanted to visit here for some time. On the way to the Hartford Atheneum we spontaneously decided to stop by. It was absolutely marvelous. Our guide Heidi regaled us with many interesting and entertaining stories about the building and Connecticut history. It was 45 minutes of pure delight, with some interesting things for kids/grandkids, including a “curiosity museum” with a two headed cow.

I had some time in Hartford before an afternoon flight, and was lucky enough to be there for one of the walking tours from the Old State House with Nicole. It was absolutely wonderful… not a canned tour where someone is reciting a script, more like a good friend telling you all the cool and interesting things about their city. Then I spent some time in the State House Museum, which is so fascinating and well curated. I’m not from CT and learned so much! Huge kudos to everyone involved with that place… you ended my visit to New England on a real high note.

350+ years of fascinating Connecticut history come to life at the Old State House! It's not easy to entertain college students these days, especially without their phones, but that's exactly what the tour guides at the OSH did when we visited last month. They were amazing! So interesting. The interior of the building is gorgeous and the museums within the museum added extra interest. The students were still talking about the two-headed cow on the way back to school. Thank you OSH staff for a fun and informative day! We will be back. :)