Frequently Asked Questions
Coming to visit the Connecticut Historical Society? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit.
Can I take photographs in the exhibits?
Yes, photographs for your personal use are allowed. Please remember that images may not be published, including electronically or on the Web, without written permission. See the Digital Reproductions section of this site for more information. Photography may be restricted in some special exhibitions.
Can I take photographs in the Waterman Research Center?
Yes, photographs of materials in the Waterman Research Center for your personal use are allowed. In order to preserve materials for future users, flash photography is not allowed. Please remember that images may not be published, including electronically or on the Web, without written permission. See the Digital Reproductions section of this site for more information.
Is the building wheel chair and ASL accessible?
Yes, click here for more information.
Are food and drinks allowed?
Food and drinks are not allowed in the museum galleries or in the Waterman Research Center. However, you are welcome to picnic on our extensive grounds, and several picnic tables are provided. Visitors are also welcome to eat at the tables in the Veeder Living Room or the Auditorium Lobby, when not in use. School and youth groups may reserve indoor lunch space for an additional fee. Please contact education_assistant@chs.org or (860) 236-5621 x232 to reserve space.
How is CHS handling patron safety during COVID-19?
As we reopen, there will be some COVID-19 related changes.
- If you feel sick, stay home. We would love to see you another time!
- Please visit the Welcome Desk upon entering and when leaving the building.
- Total visitor capacity is 40 patrons.
- All visitors must properly wear a facemask, covering nose and mouth fully.
- Please maintain 6 feet between yourself and staff/patrons not in your party, and abide by arrows and other floor and door signage.
- Our cleaning and safety protocols comply with the State of Connecticut’s guidelines, which you can review here.
The health and safety of our visitors and staff is our highest priority. To safely welcome you, along with increased cleanings and other steps mentioned above, we have:
- Carefully reviewed the Re-open Connecticut rules and guidelines.
- Established a management committee to lay out all new operating protocols and to ensure they meet or exceed the mandates.
- Participated in industry sessions on safe reopening, sharing ideas and information.
- Generated thoughtful changes to maximize your safety and enjoyment of our exhibits and library.
- Self-certified that we are following applicable Re-open Connecticut rules and guidelines.
Is there somewhere to buy food and drinks?
Sodas and bottled water are available for purchase in the museum store, and seating is available in the Veeder Living Room. There are also many area restaurants and fast food options, several within a 10-minute walk. Ask at the Welcome Desk or call (860) 236-5621 for more information.
How long should I plan to stay?
It depends on what you are interested in doing here! If you would like to browse our orientation space and “Hallway History Blasts,” peek into the Waterman Research Center, visit our current exhibitions, and stop in the museum store, you should probably plan to spend at least 2-3 hours. Or join as a member and come back as often as you want to enjoy new exhibits, explore the Waterman Research Center, and attend programs for families and adults!
Is there anything for kids to do at the Connecticut Historical Society?
Yes! Our hands-on, family-friendly exhibits are perfect for kids ages 5 and up. Kids can dress up in historic costumes, try out life in a colonial home, “build” a town on one of our magnet boards, work a World War II assembly line, and more. Check out our calendar of events to learn about upcoming family programs (many of them FREE!) or visit the Education section of this site for information about school, scout, or other youth group programs and activities.
What can I bring into the Waterman Research Center?
Pencils, laptop computers, digital cameras, and loose papers may be brought into the Waterman Research Center. A coat rack and free lockers are available for all of your other belongings (coats, purses, brief cases, tote-bags, computer bags, folders, etc.) Paper is provided to researchers using historical manuscripts. See additional information about using the Waterman Research Center.
Is there someone to help me with my research?
Our helpful Waterman Research Center staff is available to assist you when you visit. For research assistance, please visit our Questions About Research page. Fees may apply.
Can I bring my pets?
Service animals are allowed in the building. Other pets are allowed on leash on the grounds. For the safety of your pets, please do not leave animals unaccompanied in parked cars.
Who should I contact about making a donation?
Donations are so important to us! Please contact the Membership & Development Office at call (860) 236-5621 x223 or visit the Support section of this site.
Where does the funding for the Connecticut Historical Society come from?
The CHS is a private, nonprofit organization, not a state agency. We rely on income from our endowment, government, foundation, or corporate grants, sponsorships, individual donations and bequests, admission fees, and other earned revenue to support our mission.
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Reserved.
