About Us
Our Mission
Our Vision
That understand the importance of its history and is committed to saving and learning from it. Its mission seeks to provide, through its campus, its programs, exhibits, partnerships, outstanding collections, a thriving center for the study and interpretation of the past to foster citizens devoted to the values and responsibilities in a democratic form of government for today and the future.
Our History
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.
The Old Saybrook Historical Society is an all-volunteer organization.
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
October 20, 2020
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
October 1, 2020
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
September 2019
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
September 2019
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
June 2019
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
July 2019
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
July 2019
Thank you so much for the wonderful party to celebrate my 100th birthday. I hope I can repay you with continued volunteer time!
Bucky
July 2019