Visit • Discover • Learn
Located in three historic buildings in downtown Torrington, the Torrington Historical Society is home to the Torrington History Museum, the Hotchkiss-Fyler House Museum and the John H. Thompson Library & Archive. The Society also owns the West Torrington site where noted abolitionist John Brown was born.
We invite you to discover the history of Torrington by touring our exhibits and house museum, attending programs and events, using our research library or visiting the John Brown Birthplace. All are welcome.
Torrington
History Museum
Hotchkiss-Fyler House
Guided Tours
The John H. Thompson
Library & Archive
The Life and Times of James "Professor Jim" Williams: An African American Story from Connecticut - April 2nd, 6:30 pm
Please register using the link below:
“Professor Jim” An African American Story
Kevin Johnson, performer and long-term member of the Connecticut State Library’s History and Genealogy Staff, presents the story of James Williams. Known as “Professor Jim”, he worked as a janitor at Trinity College for over 50 years where he became a beloved and respected figure among students. Kevin will take you on a journey of Professor Jim’s life from his early days in New York, to his escape from enslavement and adventure on the high seas, his time in battle in the War of 1812 and his final years at Trinity College.
This program is generously sponsored by Thomaston Savings Bank.
The History of Beekeeping - May 7th at 6:30
Join us as Tammi Worsham from Backyard Beekeepers of Connecticut helps us understand the evolution of beekeeping in Connecticut, the U.S. and the World.
Learn the evolution of beekeeping from the collection of honey from wild hives to the domestication of bees into managed hives. Learn how ancient civilizations collected and used honey, how bees came to the US, the rising popularity of beekeeping as a hobby in CT and the importance of hives in modern agricultural practices. Participants can taste early summer and fall honey to observe the differences. Information on planting for bee health will be provided.
Please register using the link below:
This program is generously sponsored by Thomaston Savings Bank.
North End by State Theater
History Education Center Community Forum
Watch • Learn • Share
The link below will bring you to our History Education Center web page. Here you can learn more about this transformational project, watch a video presentation from the community forum, and access an online form to share your thoughts and ideas with us.