Deep River

Historical Society

Preserving and Celebrating our Legacy

Please note our website is currently being worked on. More pages and content will be coming soon.

Upcoming Events

Deep River
Historical Society Strawberry Social

 

SUNDAY, JUNE 8th, 1pm to 4pm

Adults: $10

Children 12 & under: $5.

Raffle at 3

Who We Are

Three museums in one…

Deep River Historical Society

The Stone House was built in 1841 from locally-quarried stone. Three generations of the Southworth family called the Stone House their home, where we now display some of their original furnishings as well as donations resonant of that period. The property, which was bequeathed to us from Ada Southworth Munson in 1946, also includes a Carriage House (available for event rentals), a Bleach House from the days of ivory manufacturing, and extensive grounds.

2. Our Collections

In addition to the Southworth bequest of a furnished home, the Deep River Historical Society curates our community’s history through artifacts, documents, maps, diaries, letters, art, and much more. Our rotating exhibits have recently highlighted Deep River’s centuries of industry from wharf to waterfall, contributions to women’s suffrage and activism, and the sacrifices of the men and women of Deep River during World War II. And we are planning more!

3. Our Programs

We provide Deep River with a lively roster of events, including period teas, the strawberry social, antique car shows, and the holiday Festival of Trees, along with year-round, though-provoking talks by authors and residents about local history and its colorful personalities. 

Memberships

Access all exhibitions & program updates

Membership includes a subscription to the Society’s newsletter and free admission to exhibits.

Become a Member

Please note, this society is an independent charitable organization. It receives no town or state funding. Any contribution above basic membership is tax deductible, and is most appreciated.

News & Articles

Week 7: Pratt Read Factory aka Pianoworks on Main Street

Week 7: Pratt Read Factory aka Pianoworks on Main Street

We started this challenge by locating the Deep River. Now it's time to talk about the factories that took their power from that river.  Unfortunately, most of them are no longer standing due to age or fire. The Pratt, Read & Co. Factory built in 1881 still...

Week 6! Captain Calvin Williams’ Home

Week 6! Captain Calvin Williams’ Home

Last week we took a look at the men who built ships in Deep River. This week’s challenge involves looking for the men who sailed the ships, sometimes known as “Blue Water Masters.”  Captain Calvin Williams built his stately home on Kirtland St in view of the CT...

Scavenger Hunt Week 5! Shipbuilding on the CT River

Scavenger Hunt Week 5! Shipbuilding on the CT River

This week’s challenge involves finding the home of one of Deep River’s shipbuilders, Eli Denison. This house is located on the corner of Phelps Lane and River Street, overlooking the Lace Factory and the CT River. This house is privately owned. Thomas Denison’s...

Week 4:  Denison Wood Planes Factory – Winthrop

Week 4: Denison Wood Planes Factory – Winthrop

This week’s challenge will take you to Winthrop to find a spot where the Denison Factory once was. It’s a great opportunity to stay and have a slice of pizza (hint hint). The G.W. Denison Factory was located on Route 80 in Winthrop and burned to the ground in 1910....

DRHS Mask Policy Update 8-5-21

DRHS Mask Policy Update 8-5-21

In accordance with CDC guidelines, we ask that all visitors wear a mask while indoors at The Stone House or Carriage House, regardless of vaccination or not. We can't wait to see you safely at The Stone House! Thank you, DRHS Staff

Week 3! Deep River’s connection with Africa

When you look at a world map, Deep River, Connecticut is nowhere near the continent of Africa. In fact, the two are separated by a large ocean. Your challenge this week is to find a piece of Africa within the boundaries of Deep River.  I enlisted the help of...