John Brown Birthplace
Today, there is little visible evidence of the house where the fiery abolitionist, John Brown was born. Nevertheless, the site remains a compelling place to visit and contemplate events in the life of John Brown, whose actions have so profoundly shaped the history of America.
The farm house where john Brown was born was built in 1785 and was purchased by Owen Brown, John Brown’s father in 1799. John Brown was born there on May 9, 1800. |
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The birthplace was restored to its 18th century appearance in 1901 and became one of the first house museums in Connecticut, attracting visitors from Connecticut, the nation, and foreign lands. Unfortunately, a chimney fire destroyed the home in 1918.
Since 1918, the site has been maintained as a clearing in the forest. In 1932 a granite monument was erected. Further historical recognition was secured in 1997 when the birthplace of John Brown became a Connecticut African-American Freedom Trail Site.
In the year 2000, the Torrington Historical Society acquired the property in a merger with the former owner, the John Brown Association and in 2003 the site was listed on the State Register of Historic Places and became Connecticut State Archaeological Preserve.
At present, there is a two-thirds mile loop trail through the 40 acre property that once comprised the Brown homestead. Plans are underway to create a shorter, more accessible, interpretive trail and to build a new trial connecting the birthplace to the adjacent Five Points Center for the Visual Arts.
For more detailed information about the history of this historic site download the John Brown Birthplace Archaeological Preserve Booklet (pdf).
Since 1918, the site has been maintained as a clearing in the forest. In 1932 a granite monument was erected. Further historical recognition was secured in 1997 when the birthplace of John Brown became a Connecticut African-American Freedom Trail Site.
In the year 2000, the Torrington Historical Society acquired the property in a merger with the former owner, the John Brown Association and in 2003 the site was listed on the State Register of Historic Places and became Connecticut State Archaeological Preserve.
At present, there is a two-thirds mile loop trail through the 40 acre property that once comprised the Brown homestead. Plans are underway to create a shorter, more accessible, interpretive trail and to build a new trial connecting the birthplace to the adjacent Five Points Center for the Visual Arts.
For more detailed information about the history of this historic site download the John Brown Birthplace Archaeological Preserve Booklet (pdf).