Darien Historical Society Inc.

The Darien Historical Society Inc., based in Darien, Connecticut, is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of the community.

History

Established in 1953, the society's primary mission is to collect and preserve archives and artifacts related to the town's history. It operates from the historic Bates-Scofield House, which dates back to 1736 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987[1].

Activities and Programs

The society offers a variety of activities, including exhibits that highlight Darien's colonial past and its significant industries such as shipbuilding, agriculture, and manufacturing. Educational programs and events are held throughout the year, including guided tours of the Bates-Scofield House and practical workshops where visitors can engage with historical artifacts[1].

Facilities

The Darien Historical Society manages an 18th-century saltbox museum, a spacious barn exhibit gallery, a resource library, and a historical herb garden. These facilities provide a comprehensive view of the town's history and cultural heritage[2].

Darien Heritage Trail

The society also participates in the Darien Heritage Trail, which is a digital and physical trail that narrates stories about Darien's historical landmarks and sites, from The Mather Homestead to the Noroton River Cemetery[5].

Annual Events

One of the society's most notable events is the Darien Antiques Show, which has been held annually for over 60 years. This event attracts collectors and enthusiasts from across the country, showcasing a wide range of antiques and collectibles[1].

[1] https://dariencosmeticdentistry.com/local/darien-historical-society/ [2] https://ctvisit.com/listings/bates-scofield-house-c1736 [3] https://darienilhistory.org/about-us/ [4] https://darienilhistory.org [5] https://museumofdarien.org