The city is home to several important historical buildings, including the old state house and the cathedral. The former is a historic landmark and is the predecessor of the current capitol building. The building’s interior features massive bronze doors, biblical scenes, and breath-taking stained glass from Paris. Both are worth a visit, and admission is $3 for children and free for adults. Visit the Hartford Art Museum to view a variety of art pieces, and tour the cathedral.
The first church in Hartford, Connecticut, was built by Puritan Colonial Leader Thomas Hooker in 1636. The Neoclassical building that stands today dates to the 19th century. Hartford Connecticut was home to the Ancient Burying Ground for 163 years, and it was the only burial ground for over six thousand people. Unfortunately, development in the surrounding area has resulted in a reduction in the cemetery’s size. The monument commemorates Captain Joseph Wadsworth’s secret hiding of the colony’s royal charter during an attempt by Governor Sir Edmund Andros in 1687.
The town’s population is primarily Democratic, and Hartford has voted for every major presidential candidate since 1928. In 2016, voters in Hartford voted for Obama and Clinton by 90%-8%, while Joe Biden won the city’s vote by 87%-13% in 2020. In addition, several magazines are published in the city. Hartford Magazine is a monthly lifestyle magazine for Greater Hartford. CT Cottages & Gardens is a glossy monthly that serves the entire state. Home Living Connecticut is a home and garden magazine that is distributed statewide.
Hartford is a historic city with many interesting facts. The city’s colorful history is reflected in its vibrant culture. During the 18th century, Hartford was a hotbed of abolitionism and is the home of author Harriet Beecher Stowe, who wrote Uncle Tom’s Cabin (1852). After the Civil War, Hartford was one of the richest cities in the United States, spearheaded by Colt’s Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company. The city has endured a few setbacks, but overall, Hartford has a strong cultural scene with excellent parks and essential museums.
For art lovers, there’s the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, which opened its doors in 1844. The museum features artwork from across the globe and spans more than five centuries. It features works by Monet, Dali, and Caravaggio. The museum also displays Italian majolica and Ballets Russes costumes. The museum is located in the heart of downtown Hartford. In addition to the Morgan Art Museum, Hartford offers several other museums worth checking out.
A new art museum opened in Hartford in 1894. The museum is comprised of several buildings. The Colt Memorial and Morgan Memorial buildings are designed by Benjamin Wistar Morris. The Avery Memorial building, completed in 1934, was the first American museum to have an international style interior. The Museum’s collection also showcases the work of Connecticut craftsmen, such as Samuel Loomis, who created furniture in the Colchester/Norwich style. Moreover, the museum also includes a collection of works by George Nakashima.