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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesConnecticutHartfordColtsville National Historical Park

Coltsville National Historical Park

US
Historical Park·Educational, Historic, Industrial, Reflective
The Colt Armory Complex next to the CT River with its signature Blue Onion Dome
Photo by from Nps
The Blue Onion Dome was rebuilt after the fire in February of 1864. Today it graces the skyline of Hartford, just as the the Church of the Good Shepherd does, reminding those who see if of the Colts and their legacy.
Photo by from Nps
The Church of the Good Shepherd was built by Elizabeth Colt as memorial to her husband, Samuel Colt, and their three children who passed in infancy. It was designed by Edward Tuckerman Potter and dedicate in 1869.
Photo by from Nps
Armsmear was the family home of Samuel and Elizabeth Colt built between 1856 and 1857. It would remain the family home, until the death of Elizabeth in 1905. Today it is a non-profit organization that provides housing for senior women of limited means.
Photo by from Nps
The Caldwell Memorial Parish House was built in memory of Caldwell Colt, Elizabeth and Samuel's son. It was designed by Edward Tuckerman Potter and dedicated in 1896.
Photo by from Nps
The Colt Armory Complex next to the CT River with its signature Blue Onion Dome
Photo by from Nps
The Blue Onion Dome was rebuilt after the fire in February of 1864. Today it graces the skyline of Hartford, just as the the Church of the Good Shepherd does, reminding those who see if of the Colts and their legacy.
Photo by from Nps
The Church of the Good Shepherd was built by Elizabeth Colt as memorial to her husband, Samuel Colt, and their three children who passed in infancy. It was designed by Edward Tuckerman Potter and dedicate in 1869.
Photo by from Nps
Armsmear was the family home of Samuel and Elizabeth Colt built between 1856 and 1857. It would remain the family home, until the death of Elizabeth in 1905. Today it is a non-profit organization that provides housing for senior women of limited means.
Photo by from Nps
The Caldwell Memorial Parish House was built in memory of Caldwell Colt, Elizabeth and Samuel's son. It was designed by Edward Tuckerman Potter and dedicated in 1896.
Photo by from Nps
The Carriage House is located in Colt Park next to the Gardner House.
Photo by from Nps
The statute was built as a memorial to Samuel by his wife, Elizabeth Colt. It was dedicated in 1906 after her passing in 1905.
Photo by from Nps
The statue was built as a memorial to Samuel Colt by his wife, Elizabeth Colt. It was dedicated in 1906 after her passing in 1905. The statue serves as a reminder the role the Colts had in the development of the City of Hartford.
Photo by from Nps
Twenty worker houses were built behind the Colt Firearm Armory in 1856. These houses provided a living space for the workers of the Colt Factory.
Photo by from Nps

Coltsville National Historical Park serves as a monumental reminder of Hartford’s central role in the American Industrial Revolution. Centered around the 1847 Colt Armory, the park is instantly recognizable by its distinctive blue onion dome, a landmark that defined the city's skyline. Beyond the architecture, the park tells the story of Samuel Colt’s revolutionary manufacturing techniques and the pivotal role of Elizabeth Colt in managing the company's growth. Visitors can explore the intersection of technology, business, and community life that flourished in 19th-century Connecticut. It is an essential stop for those looking to understand the roots of modern production and the social history of the region.

Coltsville National Historical Park serves as a monumental reminder of Hartford’s central role in the American Industrial Revolution. Centered around the 1847 Colt Armory, the park is instantly recognizable by its distinctive blue onion dome, a landmark that defined the city's skyline. Beyond the architecture, the park tells the story of Samuel Colt’s revolutionary manufacturing techniques and the pivotal role of Elizabeth Colt in managing the company's growth. Visitors can explore the intersection of technology, business, and community life that flourished in 19th-century Connecticut. It is an essential stop for those looking to understand the roots of modern production and the social history of the region.

Address
120 Huyshope Ave
Websitenps.gov
Phone(860) 500-6078

Highlights

  • Iconic blue onion dome of the 1847 Colt Armory.

  • Insight into the evolution of the American Industrial Revolution.

  • Stories of Samuel and Elizabeth Colt's impact on manufacturing.

  • Preserved 19th-century industrial architecture.

Before you go: Coltsville National Historical Park essentials

  • The park is an ongoing project; some areas may be under development or have limited access.

  • Best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details of the armory.

  • Parking can be limited in the immediate vicinity; check local signage.

Plan Ahead

Check the National Park Service website for the latest information on visitor center hours and guided tour availability.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The area is best explored on foot to appreciate the historic architecture and surrounding industrial landscape.

Best For

History buffs and architecture enthusiasts interested in the American Industrial Revolution.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Time of Day

Lunch

Combine Your Visit

Hartford is home to several other historical sites; consider pairing your visit with the Mark Twain House or the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center.

Languages Spoken

English

Occasion Tags

Educational, Tourists, History Enthusiasts

Add dates for experiences

Location

Hartford, Connecticut, United States
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