Stratford Monument Works is one of this town's oldest businesses. Owner John Forth is the fifth generation of an Italian stonecarving family.
Since 1929, this family-owned and -operated business specializes in monuments, markers, bronze and on-site cemetery lettering. This is one of the few monument companies in the area that still does its own engraving.
Best recognized as the red house on the Post Road, Putnam Cottage is a historic site built around 1690. Originally called Knapp's Tavern during the American Revolution, the house became known as the place from which General Israel Putnam made his famous escape from the invading British. In 1906, the house was turned into a museum. Although it underwent various renovations during the 19th century, today the building has been restored to its original design. On Sunday afternoons visitors can tour the inside to experience true colonial living conditions.
Canton Historical Museum is located in the heart of Collinsville, in the old Collins Company Plow building. It offers artifacts and memorabilia in three floors of the building. Some of the collections are in rooms such as bridal parlor, general store and an actual library. In addition, there is a barber shop, which was also a dentist shop, back in the day! It has been directed by Paul Therrien, since 2000.
The Historical Society of Glastonbury was established in 1936 to preserve the town's historical heritage and to display it in an educational and entertaining manner. Its museum, located in the former town hall at 1944 Main Street, houses exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to early 20th century items. The society maintains an extensive schedule of house tours and walking tours, and hosts the annual Farm Festival and Antiques Festival.
The First Company Governor's Horse Guards comprise the oldest continuously operated cavalry unit in the nation. In 2010, the Horse Guard trained to become to first horse-mounted search and rescue unit in the state of Connecticut. Headquarters is on Arch Road near the Church of Saint Ann and Miller Foods, Inc. The horses roam on farm land marked by the white fence perimeter bordering West Avon Road. Drivers can view the horses from the road. The Horse Guards run drills every Thursday at 7 pm, which are open to be observed by the public, maintaining the tradition of riding in the same formationsthe cavalry originally did. When the horses are not outside, they are housed in a red barn next to the Horse Guard office building. The Horse Guards are responsible for taking care of the horses. They welcome new members on a rolling basis. Interested parties may contact the main office for more information on joining the Horse Guards.
The Historic Perry House of Stratford is a historic building and community space in Stratford. Managed by the nonprofit organization the Perry House Foundation, the house hosts many local charity and city events and can be rented for private events such as weddings and parties.
