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
Meet Frank Santoro as he discusses Deep River’s 19th Century seafaring history.
Who We Are
Three museums in one…
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
4th Annual Trees, Traditions and Legends Holiday Event
Deep River Historical Society will be holding their 4th annual holiday event and welcome all to come and partake in the festivities. Both the Carriage House and Stone House, 245 Main Street, Deep River will feature decorated trees and holiday decorations. The houses...
Deep River Historical Society Hosts ‘Bourbon & Bubbles’ Fundraiser, Nov. 3
Deep River Historical Society is holding a fund-raiser Saturday, Nov. 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Carriage House, 245 Main Street, Deep River. Taste a variety of unique bourbons, sparkling wines, craft beers generously provided by Shore Discount Liquors. All proceeds...
Native American programs
We are co-sponsoring events with our own Historical Society and the Essex Historical Society along with the Land Trusts from both towns. Come join us on Thursday, Nov. 2 at 7:00 at the Carriage House. 245 Main Street, Deep River. This program is titled Native...
The Wagunks and Connecticut’s Indigenous Communities
Learn about the rich histories of Connecticut's first Land stewards, the vibrant Native Indian cultures just before and after European contact. Dr. Lucianne Lavin's lecture will focus particularly on the Wangunks, a populous, powerful tribe with homelands on both...
An Native American Harvest
DRHS Invites you to a Native American Harvest. In conjunction with Deep River Family Day activities on Saturday, September 16, 2017 the Deep River Historical Society will present an exhibition at the Stone House, 245 Main St. Deep River. This is a guided exhibition...
DRHS hosts Park and Rec Campers
The DRHS hosted the Park and Rec campers on Thursday July 20th. Campers explored the concept of "Then and Now" with docents from the Society. The Bleach House is the last remaining bleach house in North America. Campers got to walk inside and see how the ivory pieces...