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.

Festival of Trees

Free Admission

DECEMBER 6 & 7 | 4 PM TO 8 PM
DECEMBER 8 | 2 PM TO 6 PM
at the Deep Ríver Historical Society

View the festival’s beautifully decorated holiday trees curated by Deep River’s non-profits, businesses and youth groups.

Friday: Melodic Clarinets
Saturday: Deep River Juniors
Sunday: Guitar & Christmas Carols

People’s Choice Awards: Vote for your favorites on Friday & Saturday. Awards will be given on Sunday.

Hot chocolate and treats provided by DRHS and community volunteers.

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

Native American programs

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

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...

Stone House Opens for the Season

The Deep River Historical Society presents an opportunity to step back in time.  This house and property is considered the crown jewel at 245 Main St., Deep River.  The Stone House was built in the 1840"s by Deacon Ezra Southworth for his bride.  Three generations of...