The Kent Historical Society (KHS) is a non-profit organization founded in 1954. Its mission is to collect, preserve, interpret and present the rich history of Kent, Connecticut, and to provide educational and research material to enrich the public understanding of Kent's artistic and cultural heritage. KHS owns two historic buildings, the Skiff Mountain Schoolhouse and Seven Hearths Museum, on the National Register of Historic Places.
Seven Hearths Museum is the heart of Kent Historical Society. Built in 1751, the house served as a home and business center of Kent’s original town center, the Flanders National Historic District. Seven Hearths offers visitors a unique view of life in Kent in the 18th century with period rooms furnished with antiques and historical objects. These exhibits are contrasted with the story of artist George Laurence Nelson and his wife Helen Redgrave Nelson. For much of the twentieth century, it was their home, Nelson’s studio, extensive gardens and a place for art critique and classes. Nelson’s paintings are on display and feature his portraits, a triptych of Helen in the garden and full length paintings of his family.
In addition to maintaining the Seven Hearths Museum for public viewing, KHS provides education and outreach programming, including field trips for schools, a lecture series and adult programs, annual historical exhibits, historical publications and hands-on activities for children and families.
KHS also owns the Tallman House, a small cottage near Seven Hearths, which is used as archives / collections storage and office space. The collections include historical material, genealogy files, postcards, photographs, and objects of historical importance to the history of Kent, CT.
Kent Historical Society | PO Box 651 | Kent, CT 06757 | 860.927.4587