The Old Saybrook Historical Society welcomes you to its home page and invites you to navigate through to discover what we have to offer! The rich history of Old Saybrook found in historical homes, artifacts, documents, letters, etc. was in danger of disappearing or being destroyed if an organization to implement the preservation of these items was not formed. A group of twenty concerned citizens decided to address this serious problem by creating the Old Saybrook Historical Society in 1958. Under the able direction of the first president, Frank Tinsley, a noted historian, author and scientific illustrator, a formal Constitution incorporating the Society was established in 1966. The Old Saybrook Historical Society is a 501 (c) (3) organization.
and Exhibit Gallery, are closed until
further notice.
The Frank Stevenson Archives is open to volunteers. Public will be admitted by appointment.
National Award of Excellence
Dedicated to Preserving, Protecting and Promoting the
History of Old Saybrook
“Winter is nearly spent
The snow is melting and the days are growing longer Sugar maples will soon be tapped and sweet sap will begin dripping into waiting buckets
It’s been a very long hard time this winter
But, if you take a deep breath, you can almost touch
the happy anticipation in the air
It ‘s the start of spring…life’s renewal promise”
Message from Linda Kinsella –
keeper of the gardens
Kind Words
We are writing to let you know how much we have appreciated the opportunity offered to us over the last several weeks to use the Hart House Garden for our meditation group. We have been delighted to have the garden, with its beautiful grounds and peaceful open space, as an option for us.
Patricia O’Brien
On behalf of the staff in the History and Genealogy Unit, please allow me to thank you for the donation of the work On the Edge of Uncertainty; The Siege and Battles of Saybrook Fort during the Pequot War, 1636-1637, which we received recently. What a wonderful project and partnership! That’s very exciting to uncover the location of the Saybrook Fort and learn more about life during the time. We are very pleased to add this to our collections. I’m sure it will be of great interest to those researching this topic. What a lovely and informative self guided map and tour as well.
Jeannie Sherman, Reference Librarian, CT State Library
Thank you for all of your hardwork protecting Old Saybrook’s Colorful History!
Best, Himalaya Cafe
I want to thank you again, including the Old Saybrook Historical Society itself, for such an eventful research morning. I can simply say, “I had the best time!” and want to acknowledge again how professional, resourceful, and pleasant, mu experience was researching these families.
Deanna Rosser
Traverse City, MI
Thanks for all your help in arranging this special program for the Middletown Garden Club. It is a wonderful privilege to tour the Hart House and see the lovely gardens.
Middletown Garden Club Program Chairs
Thank you and all the wonderful people at the OS Historical Society for hosting a wonderful Chamber Connecticut event on June 6th. It was a great evening and everyone learned a bit of history too!
Thank you, Judy
On behalf of the Garden Club of Middlefield, I would like to extend a warm thanks to Linda and Kerrie. We will spread the word of all the Hart House has to offer so that others may enjoy a visit.
I am writing to thank you for your generous, financial support towards my higher education. By awarding me this scholarship, I am able to concentrate on what is important for me, education. Your financial support has allowed me to be one step closer to my goal and has inspired me to help others by continuing to give back to the community.
Student Volunteer
Thank you so much for the four great years! The Hart House was an amazing place to learn, grow, and connect with the community. I would also like to thank you for the scholarship money and for helping me with my future endeavors.
Student Volunteer
Thank you so much for the wonderful party to celebrate my 100th birthday. I hope I can repay you with continued volunteer time!
Bucky